Jean Therapy

Denim Keeps it Cool

Jean Therapy May 0514 Fashion

There's one fashion trend that's always a classic every season—denim. Most of us have at least one, if not many pieces of these tried-and-true blue favorites in our wardrobes. But every year, these denim designs are updated and given a new twist. Let's face it: We all need a little jean therapy every now and then. So check out these latest trends:

First of all, skinny jeans are here to stay. This popular silhouette has created a whole new proportion in fashion over the last few years. Long over lean has been the mantra, giving rise to longer tunic tops, three-quarter coats and more. Tucked into boots, the dark-washed skinny jean has been a uniform to many this past winter.
For spring and summer, the skinny jean is still a fashion must-have. Softer blues turn up for warmer weather teamed with sheer flowing tops, short-sleeved tees and sleeveless tanks.
The boot-cut is also another standby that promises to become a denim classic. Since it is a flattering silhouette for most women, this jean in darker washes is a favorite pant to wear to work. It can easily be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. High-rise waists give this jean even more options. Pair with a cropped jacket and longer top for work or a cropped sweater for more casual outings.

Both the skinny jean and the boot-cut jean are getting even more "denimized" this spring with the addition of chambray shirts and jean jackets. Denim worn head to toe used to be a definite fashion no-no, but now it is a chic trend. There is one caveat to this "rule": Try to wear similar color shades together.

The boyfriend jean that is a little more loose-fitting is another spring and summer denim staple. This season, the relaxed jean gets cuffed for even more casual style. We wore these with ankle boots in colder weather, now you'll see them at the beach, all rolled up and ready to go with flip-flops.

Distressed denim is also making fashion headlines. We used to work hard to make our jeans look old and soft, washing them dozens of times and pummeling them with stones. Now, even the most "haute" designers are selling their denim blasted with rips and tears. Witness Rihanna on the cover of the March 2014 Vogue wearing Marc Jacobs' Louis Vuitton distressed jeans paired with a jet-beaded Victorian mesh top.

Denim shorts are, of course, another summer staple. The cutoffs are still a popular way to cool off on hot days. But longer Bermuda shorts are another trendy option, too.
Ditto for rompers and overalls, too. No, these are not just for the under-6 set. And don't let visions of romping around the farm get you going either. These newest one-piece denim delights are much more sophisticated. Think more fitted and accessorized with heels and clutches.
Shirts are another big denim "do" this spring and summer. From faded chambrays to darker blue washes, jean shirts are making major fashion news ... paired with ... you guessed it ... jeans. Denim shirtdresses are also another big hit for the upcoming season.
And, of course, jean jackets are always a fashion favorite. This spring, expect to see the latest jackets shortened and much more distressed ... and well, much more casual. Think even the splashed-with-bleach look. Wear them over long maxi dresses and skirts for a bohemian vintage vibe that's sure to bring back memories.

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Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.

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