American Tradition: Jeans . . Past, Present, and Future

PAST
No item of clothing is more American than the blue jeans invented in 1873 by Jacob Davis and Levi Strauss. These two visionary immigrants, turned denim, thread and a little metal into the most popular clothing product in the world. Waist overalls, was the traditional name for work pants, which is what these first jeans were called. The word jeans became more popular around 1960 when the baby-boom generation adopted the term for its favorite type of pants, blue jeans..

Introduced in September 1934, Levi's "Lady Levi's Jeans" were the first jeans made for women. Before that, if women wanted to wear jeans they had to snag a pair from the guys. According to Levi's, the line was developed for Western women who had begun wearing men’s Levi’s jeans on ranches and farms, and for women to wear to a popular new vacation destination – dude ranches. Soon afterwards, Levi’s jeans became a popular fashion trend for women on the East Coast.

PRESENT

The best selling jean worldwide is amazingly Levi.  In many foreign countries they are highly coveted clothing item.

Dark wash skinny jeans still dominate the American market.  The top 3 sellers for 2010 are: 

1. Levi's 524 Low Skinny: Perhaps not a surprise, but these very tight jeans from the famous maker run very tight. However, you will likely find that they fit better than much more expensive jeans, and the hips are very comfy although on the loose side. However, if you are on the athletic side, the calves may feel extremely tight. You may want to try wearing these denim pants with heels, and they are great for a casual day or a night out on the town. Please note that the 524 jeans is the slimmest of all Levi's fits in the knee and leg opening.

2. AG Adriano Goldschmied The Tights in Rosebud: You will likely find that these jeans are super comfy and that they fit amazingly well. If you consider getting a second pair after buying your first one, please know that you will not be alone. For sure you will love the five pocket design that features signature embroidery on the back, not to mention the seamed front pockets that lend a sleek look. You probably want to order one size up, and then you will feel ready to slide right into a pair of boots.
3. 7 For All Mankind Roxanne: These super denims are true to size, and you will love the softness of the material. Made in the United States, the jeans feature a zipper fly and button closure, not to forget the classic stitch detail at back pocket. However, overall you find that the pants are supper skinny and that they do not have too much stretch. In other words, you can sit down without worrying that your pants will fall off.
 Levi 524  Low Skinny

FUTURE

What trends in women’s denim can be seen on streets in Paris, London, Tokyo, Berlin and other cities around the world? Is Skinny jeans still going strong ? Is Boyfriend jeans witnessing  new variations and silhouettes ? What new looks can be seen in Jeggings ?

Denim Street Trend Report by Stylesight.com

Boyfriend Jean Straight Legs: The boyfriend jeans trend reintroduces straight leg silhouettes to women and juniors

Jeggings expand with new washes and finishes that follow current denim trends. Absolute black for a minimalist edge / Black and blue acid wash / Super stretch fabric with vintage whiskers and chevron lines.

The skinny silhouette naturally evolves in a boot cut interpretation.

Skinny silhouettes with slightly flared hems / Ultra long versions scrunched around boot shafts / Dark denim shades /

Tapered legs are a roomier option to skinny fits. Coated and resin finishes modernize this retro silhouette / Dark stonewash gives secondhand, from-the-90s appeal.

Voluminous styles, roomier than the boyfriend fit, emerge in high water cuffed styling. Fitted feminine jackets juxtapose wider cuts / Masculine trend / Key look: faded baggy jeans with tailored pieces

Natural waistline silhouettes are the key retro trend.90s secondhand look with natural waistline and curved hips / Acid washed elastic waist running shorts: worn high/ Tie-dye / Straight legs with workwear boots and feminine sweaters.