Author: admin

Denims history stretches back over two centuries and in 2013, its as popular as its ever been. Thanks to its durability, its warmth and its versatility, denim has become a major feature in wardrobes the world over.

This year, denim is taking on classic styles and giving them a significant contemporary makeover. Read on to find out more about how to wear denim in 2013.

Denim jackets

Denim jackets are making a big comeback this year. After enjoying a period of popularity in the 1990s, they have generally been out of favour in the 21st century – until now. Their basic style hasnt changed much: women can still expect denim jackets to be simple, button-down affairs with two breast pockets and cuffs to the wrist. It sounds ordinary, but denim jackets can easily be made extraordinary by how you wear them. A favourite style with celebrities is a denim jacket worn over a knee-length floral dress with sandals. This is a great look for a summer festival just remember to swap the sandals for wellingtons. Alternatively, try wearing one with high-waisted trousers and a ruffle-detailed shirt, or over a maxi dress for chic outerwear.

If the classic style still doesnt appeal, search for variations. Cowboy-style jackets, for instance, typically have fewer pockets and buttons but more colourful details. Think kaleidoscopic, Western-style embroidery along the shoulders and a fringe at the waist. These details mean that cowboy denim jackets dont need many accessories. Instead, pair with a plain black dress, wedged heels and a clutch bag to add a frontier-style frisson to your eveningwear.

How to wear jeans this year

The most enduring way to wear denim is, unsurprisingly, in the form of jeans. Jeans fashion doesnt tend to change as rapidly as other clothes, but there are some interesting trends to watch out for in 2013. Brightly coloured denim, for example, will be back in full force come summer. Until then, look out for dark metallic-painted jeans, as well as variations in plum and wine hues.

If skinny jeans are beginning to tire you out, get on board with this seasons big trend in womens jeans: cropped denim. These jeans are generally just as fitted as skinny jeans but end a few inches above the ankle. Cropped jeans are particularly feminine, and look great with floral blouses or fitted tops. Pair with high heels or wedges to elongate your silhouette, as this style does have a tendency to make women look shorter. And if youve got a pair of old jeans festering at the back of your wardrobe, nows the time to take them out as ripped denim is re-emerging as a major fashion statement.

If theres one fabric that never seems to go out of style, its leather. From classic biker jackets and leather satchels to more daring leather trousers, leather always rears its stylish head on the catwalk and on the street.

In 2013, leather has quickly evolved from a timeless fashion fallback to a key mens clothing trend of the year. If you want to get in on the trend, there are plenty of different ways to make leather work for you.

The simplest and most time-honoured way to wear this enduring fabric is in the form of a leather jacket. The iconic status of the leather jacket has been reinforced in countless films, from James Deans classic cut in 1955s Rebel Without a Cause to the many red ones sported by Brad Pitt in 1999s Fight Club.

Todays styles havent veered too far from the mould. Biker jackets are still typically solid black, with an asymmetrical zip and pockets on either side. Some variations may offer extra details, like patterned stitching at the shoulders or cuffs. But in general, leather jackets look just as stylish worn over jeans and a white t-shirt in 2013 as they did in 1955.

If youre after a modern twist on this classic style, seek out a brown leather jacket with a ribbed fabric waist and three-quarter sleeves. This style particularly suits slim men who might otherwise be swamped by the square proportions of a traditional style. A tailored jacket with leather elbow patches is another great way to sneak leather into a contemporary formal outfit.

Alternatively, for outerwear thats less biker gang and more fighter pilot, look for a style with a sheepskin collar and cuffs. Sheepskin is another key trend for 2013, and combining it with leather is the ideal way to fuse two fashion must-haves this year.

More ways to wear leather

Naturally, mens leather jackets arent the only way to wear this vintage fabric. Leather shirts, for instance, are a quick and easy way to join the trend, and look great worn with jeans and smart shoes to a bar or restaurant. And if youre feeling brave, its never been a better time to wear leather trousers. If you decide to take the plunge, its advisable to go all in: leather trousers look their best when theyre matched with a leather jacket. Wear with a simple Merino wool jumper for a sophisticated look, or a graphic t-shirt for an outfit that stands out from the crowd.