Q: I know colored denim was "in" for spring and summer, but now I see it in the stores this fall. Is this a trend anyone can wear?
With the rise of colored denim in 2011, it's carryover to Spring 2012 and now Fall 2012, it looks like the trend is here to get comfortable and stay for awhile. But with this trend redux, we're seeing a few additions to the mix. Joining the earth tone and brightly hued offerings are jewel tones, like ruby, sapphire and emerald. Even more exciting is the printed denim, including photo printing and painterly designs, as well as metallics and coated or "waxed" denim. Avoid the truly neon shades right now; they were for spring/summer wear and, more important, are not appropriate for every age or shape. That said, don't let colored denim throw you - there's no need to match your top. For example, a grey and black striped sweater coordinates fabulously with jeans of any color - oxblood, cobalt, emerald, etc. Pick a favorite, season appropriate (thus a bit more saturated) color and go with it!
Printed denim may seem fashion adventurous, but patterns range from subtle to bold. Be willing to step outside your comfort zone to try on a pair, but do be careful you don't choose a print that emphasizes a less-than-favorite body part. Coordinate with simple tops in solid shades or, for you advanced fashionistas, in another pattern. Rule of thumb for mixing patterns: mix big print with small print (and not big with big, small with small) and have at least one common color to connect the 2 garments.
Coated denim ranges from light finishes for subtle shine to medium glaze for a leather-like look to heavy coating for a waxed appearance. I particularly like the metallic coatings. These high-tech treatments impart a dramatic effect, but because they include the stretch and lightweight qualities of denim, can be worn with comfort and ease. Keep in mind that this type of denim looks best in form fitting styles. However, I would argue that all jeans look best when form fitted - no matter if skinny or bootcut. There's nothing stylish or flattering about saggy, baggy britches. In that vein, denim manufacturers are playing with the lycra content of their jeans to offer even more shape retention, hopefully eliminating the need to wash and dry after each wear.
