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[D]ENIM

“It’s refreshing to see denim on the catwalk because it works as a counterpoint to anything too ‘fashion’: denim is the sensible friend who wants you to look good, not stupid.” - Elgar Johnson

OK, so the quote above may not have applied to Britney and Justin when they decided to wear matching double-denim outfits to the American Music Awards in 2001. Really though, where would we be without blue boot-cut jeans and the classic denim jacket? 

 The fabric is an iconic and staple part of every woman's wardrobe. But put down those skinnies and say good bye to the comfort stretch of faux-jeans and jeggings. This season’s denim is rigid, androgynous and torn at the seams.

Here are five of the best cuts and washes to look out for this Spring:

1 - GIRLFRIEND

 Remember ‘Boyfriend’ jeans? The slouchy, over-sized style was a favourite amongst women who preferred a loose and low waisted fit. Girlfriend jeans are a feminine version of the ‘boyfriend’ trend and are slightly tapered on the leg for a slimmer, more flattering finish.

Up your dating game with these ‘AUTHENTIC 1969 best girlfriend jeans’ from Gap, £44.95.

2 - DISTRESSED

Open stitches, scuffed knees, raw hems and frayed edges; when it comes to distressed denim, anything goes. Tear it up in a pair of bleached Original MOM jeans from ASOS, £35.00. 

(Just be prepared for parents/grandparents to question whether you can “afford a pair without holes in?”)

3 - PINSTRIPED

Smart meets casual with Topshop's twist on the classic suit pattern. Say it in stripes with these printed denim co-ords, £45.00. 

4 - CROPPED

Because culottes are hot. We've been through this.

These frayed denim culottes tick all the boxes and are available in Zara for just £19.99.

5 - PATCHWORK

Can’t choose between faded, indigo and bleached denim? 

Mix it up in a pair of patchwork jeans, £42.00.

Or if you're feeling crafty, why not DIY with some old denim shorts and locker stickers? (Skinny Dip, £10.00)

photo credits: weareselecters.com, shemazing.net, theconsciousstudent.wordpress.com, gap.com, asos.com, topshop.com, zara.com

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[C]ULOTTES

"The culotte is a little bit of an 'F-you' piece," says Lowell Delaney, co-designer of London label Trager Delaney. "It's such a power move because it isn't a conventionally sexy look. It says, 'I don't care and I still look better than you even though you're wearing a miniskirt.' 

Loved by some, hated by others; Culottes are fashion’s Marmite. Despite being a favourite amongst designers, many women have struggled to see past the garment’s reputation as clumsy ‘skort’ or girl scouts’ uniform. Others choose to reject the cropped and wide leg styles as dated or ill-fitting.

Don’t be intimidated. Sitting high on the waist and cut at the slimmest part of the leg, culottes are surprisingly flattering on most body types. Though tailored, their looser fit also allows the wearer some ‘leg room’ without the heaviness of palazzo strides and flares.

      When it comes to styling culottes, proportion is everything. Wearing a cropped or halter top, for example, can help to offset the billowing cut of a flared trouser by drawing attention back to the upper half of the body. A chunky sweater or tunic will have the opposite effect, lengthening the torso and creating a smooth silhouette.

NB: For a flirty finish play with ‘underwear as outerwear’ and opt for a lace bralet or camisole.

GET THE LOOK:

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photo credits: aritzia.com, mishanonoo.com, sunshine-n-gunpowder.com, clavisfashion.polyvore.com