If there’s one thing you need in your closet, it’s denim. It comes in many apparel forms, but I think its most important one is the denim jacket. Yes, this may be a hot take but hear me out. I think I’ll make a denim jacket believer out of you, too!
Denim, specifically jean pants, started as workwear and over time became contemporary fashion mainstays. Jeans are irrefutably important, but I will argue that the denim jacket is just as iconic. Worn as a symbol of fashion rebellion and adopted by celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Madonna, and Elvis, it is a staple that transcended gender and social status.
Originally, it was introduced as a triple pleat blouse invented by Levi’s and tweaked in prior years to meet the needs of the working class, providing warmth with room for movement. Eventually, it evolved by cutting out unneeded embellishments to adapt to material rationing.
It was around the time of World War II that Bing Crosby and Robert Mitchum began to don the denim jacket in celebrity-like fashion bringing it to centerstage in fashion. Crosby loved Levi’s and coined the term “Canadian Tuxedo” (an all denim outfit) when he was denied entry into a hotel for being underdressed.
Like other fashion items, the shape and fit of the denim jacket have evolved from its originally boxy shape to take on a longer, slightly less boxy shape known as the trucker style. Celebrities like Elvis embraced this new style, but it was short-lived and quickly replaced by a more slim fit and streamlined style, adding details like hand pockets for more functionality. The slim fit style and the trucker style are still seen today.
A jean jacket is a transitional staple that is perfect for having on hand in spring if it gets a little chilly in the morning or while indoors or styling up with a hoodie in winter for extra warmth. If cardigans aren’t your style a denim jacket is a trusty alternative. The denim jacket in recent years has shifted back and forth from slim to more oversized. The most present denim jacket style is oversized and can be worn with a belt for cinching, half buttoned and draped off the shoulder to show some skin, or layer it for a bit of extra warmth in colder months.
Add extra life to your worn denim jacket by adding patches or learn more about how to sew with denim to make the process move along much more smoothly.
Throughout history, denim jackets have been sported by greasers, cowboys, rockstars, and rappers alike. This alone cements their versatility. Having a denim jacket in your closet is ideal for capsule wardrobes or those who prefer to invest in pieces that will stand the test of time, surpassing trendy pieces and styles.
Do you rock a jean jacket? Let us know in the comments below!
