The light colored blue jean is making a comeback, slowly but surely. Perhaps it’s because we are so afraid of returning to the grunge look of the eighties and early nineties that we have so cautiously avoided them for so long. Alas, our fears are confirmed daily as we see well intentioned but ill informed people wearing them without any thought as to how they are meant to look. In other words, this isn’t the light blue jean of 1989. The light jeans of 2008 have a more posh, metropolitan flare.
First, let’s address how not to wear light blue jeans today. While most jeans now are meant to be worn tight and form fitting, light jeans should have a boot cut or a flare leg. We’re not talking about bell bottoms here, but just a hint of movement at the end. This means absolutely no straight leg styles. Fashion lovers of the world also beg that you not ever try to tuck them into your boots, either. Tight, light jeans have a way of accentuating every single curve in an unflattering light (especially those little bulges that you didn’t know you had right between the outer hip and thigh). Leave a little room to move and let the hem go to the middle of the shoe, at least.
Another trend that is coming but isn’t quite here yet, possibly because we aren’t ready for it, is the return of stonewashed light jeans. We tried it a few years ago, had a few fashion disasters, and repented. Right now, just leave them alone. If the fashion industry just hasn’t quite figured this one out yet, there’s no chance that you will.
As we reach the end of the “don’t” section, I must implore you to never wear light blue jeans with tank tops, t-shirts, or flip flops. That is, unless you’re headed to a country music festival or a Harley Davidson weekend event. Otherwise, you’ll look a bit too much like a teen from the Nirvana era. Light jeans are coming back only to be worn with the utmost care in order to keep the look from becoming too grungy, redneck, or casual. Wearing summertime’s hallmark lounging pieces with them just doesn’t work.
Finally, let’s take a look at how you can wear light blue jeans without fear. I know, it’s a daunting thought. All we think of when we see them on department store hangers is Metallica or “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” but bear with me here. This time around, light jeans are just meant to be a lighter version of those dark, solemn threads we wore all winter long. The trick is adding the right accessories and tops. First, select a shirt that has a bit of structure and a dark color. Never wear light colors with light jeans, by the way. You’ll look faded out. Select a hot pink, an emerald green, or something that strikes you as a sophisticated spring shade. Make sure that the top isn’t too structured, a button down, or anything too formal, either. You absolutely must strike a balance between formal and fun. Anything too serious makes the jeans look too casual in contrast. You might consider a puff sleeved sweater or a top with three quarter length sleeves.
Next, select the right accessories. Long, beaded necklaces add a little summer elegance. Thick bangle bracelets keep the look weekend-friendly but city-appropriate. Bags with stylish and elegant prints like leopard or polka dots in boxy shapes are fun but structured enough to keep the jeans from looking like hand-me-downs. The key is dressing the jeans up with your jewelry and bags. While you wouldn’t want to wear diamond earrings paired with a leather handbag, you do need to wear pieces that will add a touch of sophistication. Think stiff purses, beads, and pieces that you might wear on a date to the movies. Yes, you have to dress up light blue jeans, but not so much that the accessories don’t go with the lighter theme.
Last but not least, try not to give in to your outdated desire to wear tennis shoes with light blue jeans. Yes, that would coincide perfectly with how we used to wear them, but that’s why that trend is in the past. As mentioned earlier, light jeans are only worn now with a modern edge. That means footwear needs to add a touch of formality. This is the only area where it’s ok to go ultra sophisticated. Think pointy-toed boots in any color you please or stilettos. Do avoid anything without a heel, such as ballet flats. If you don’t put a killer edge on the shoes you wear with light blue jeans, you’ll kill the whole effect.
Ok, light blue jeans can be a pain, yes, but they look great when you get the formula just right. Take a look at jewelry and shoes offered by Forever 21, Cache, The Body Shop, and any other dime-a-dozen shop for young women to get an idea of the formal but fun accessories that you should be wearing with them. Just remember to dress up your light jeans just enough to give them a city feel. When you look in the mirror and aren’t reminded of summers spent listening to AC DC, you’re good to go.
