The Jean Generation

People may not remember the origin of blue jeans, but no one can forget James Dean strutting across the big screen sporting jeans, a white t-shirt and black leather jacket in Rebel Without a Cause.  Other heartthrobs such as Marlon Brando and Elvis Presley wearing those sexy denims helped spawn jeans' popularity in the 1950's. After generations of being considered sturdy work clothes worn by factory workers and miners, they became part of the off-duty American wardrobe.  Considered controversial and rebellious, some establishments banned them.

By the 1960’s, jeans became more acceptable and they were a classic by the 70’s. Their popularity and diversity continued to grow throughout the rest of the twentieth century, and today there are more designers, washes, and styles than you can keep track of! So, let’s take a look back through the trends that made the past six decades memorable.

1950s: These were really dungarees. Very dark blue and stiff when new, jeans took years to mellow and soften.They were much looser than today’s and both boys and girls rolled up at the bottoms. These were considered loungewear. Today, some people play on this vintage look by sporting a rockabilly style.

 

1960s: Jeans were still mostly worn for very casual activities, but some new styles began to emerge in the later part of the decade. Hiphuggers and bellbottoms were introduced in the 60s, and capris and ankle pants also became popular.

 

1970s: Bellbottoms continued to rise in their popularity and their signature wide

flare has become a universal symbol of this decade. In keeping with “flower power,” people also began to personalize their bellbottoms by adding colorful patches, embroidery, studs, and other embellishments. Especially a hit with the hippies, well-worn jeans were almost a uniform for attending a concert.

 

1980s: The decade of excess marked the beginning of designer jeans, from brands like Calvin Klein to Armani. Stonewashed jeans were a must have, and brightly colored, torn, and pastel jeans were all popular as well. Tapered jeans with a high waist and a acid wash just ooze the 80’s.

1990s: The emergence of grunge in the early part of the decade made

ripped black jeans popular for some time. Jeans in general were popular throughout the 90's. Lycra was also added to jeans during this time for added comfort. Baggy jeans became popular for males during this time, in direct proportion to the growing influence of hip-hop on pop culture.

2000-Present: Jeans are always in style and skinny ones are currently the hottest trend. Denim is used in everything from jackets to bags to shoes, and some jeans even come bejeweled or painted. There is a vast variety of price points and styles, with nearly every store carrying some type of jean. While the past decade may not yet have its own signature style, it has definitely referenced past trends and brought them to life in new ways.

While there is a seemingly endless supply of designers, finding the perfect pair can still be a daunting task. Most Americans own several pairs of jeans, and I must admit, I’m a jean addict. I’m always on the hunt for the “it” jean; the one that I could wear every day, even sleep in, and still look good. I think it’s a search that will never end, which is good because then what would I shop for?

For a history of blue jeans before the 1950's, see Blue Jean Baby.