Ah dresses. They never fail to reel me in with promises of the glamour of a bygone era (Mum always said I was born in the wrong century, although personally I prefer the creature comforts of this one). However, in reality it’s jeans that are the cornerstone of my wardrobe. Unfancy, but just so classic & reliable; steadfast in comfort, style and utility.
Did you know the history of jeans?
Although I’m sure the San Francisco tailor Jacob Davids and owner of a dry goods store, Levi Strauss (who together invented jeans) knew they were onto something good when they patented jeans as far back as 1873, I’m not sure they contemplated just how ubiquitous these classics would become. Did you know that in the fifties, certain schools prohibited jeans for fear of causing rebellious students due to “juvenile delinquent” type characters wearing them on television and in movies? I’ve been reading up about it here and here and it’s quite fascinating to see how the humble blue jeans, which began as trousers for labourers, ended up on the high street.
A simple outfit formula
This look would be a simple outfit formula rely on a long in the cooler months. Ballet flats, jeans, a simple top with a coat thrown over the top for comfort. Simple but effective. Recently, I’ve been really enjoying the high waist, straight leg look of this style – taking a cue from Jane Birkin’s classic style. She has the enviable quality of making the simplest outfits look stylish – I guess that’s why she’s an icon. You can read my review of Levi’s Ribcage Jeans here.
In terms of the outfit, here’s a few similar items linked for inspiration:
Although this pair is Levi’s I’m also keen to try out some more sustainable brands or perhaps even get my hand on some elusive Vintage 501s.
Are jeans the cornerstone of your wardrobe? What are your favourite styles?
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