Distressed denim is distinguished by a variety of rips, tears and abrasions made on the fabric before or after the jeans are put together. Most frequently, the rips and tears are what sets high-priced designer jeans apart from the lower end of the market. Ripped jeans are available from a number of the leading designer labels, as well as the bargain brands. Another common way to get exceptional ripped jeans is by shopping at thrift stores – some online thrift shops specialise in ‘recycling’ denim jeans, so you can pick up a pre-worn pair with authentic wear and tear for a fraction of the price of some designer jeans that have been engineered to look used.
Luxury jeans brands, like Citizens of Humanity, 7 For All Mankind and True Religion, are known for exceptional attention to detail and high quality craftsmanship. Part of that reputation is based on the way these designers distress their jeans – by hand. Rips are made carefully and deliberately to look as natural as possible. The majority of fashionable ripped jeans are torn discreetly, so the trousers show subtle signs of wear rather than massive damage.
Ripped jeans for women are available from most of the leading designer names, including Rock and Republic, Citizens of Humanity and Miss Sixty. Men’s ripped jeans include the Marlon from Ben Sherman, the EV from Evisu Genes, Diesel’s Zathan and 7 For All Mankind’s Havana 2 Wash relaxed five-pocket jeans. Because kids are generally rough on clothes, few designers make ripped jeans for children.
Buying ripped jeans online is easy – though it’s always recommended you make online purchases from a reputable merchant with a clear return policy. If you’ve got questions regarding the rips and tears in the jeans you’re considering, always ask the vendor for additional pictures of the actual trousers on offer – a seller with authentic merchandise is usually happy to oblige.
© Designer Jeans.org.uk 2006
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