As a successor to the "bell-bottom" jean, the "skinny jean" was thought
to be just another passing trend.
But it has not disappeared yet.
Fresh from the fall runways, skinny-fit pants are back, now in bolder,
brighter styles.
So what's the skinny on the skinny? (Couldn't resist.)
According to an article by Lori Hayashida on www.pureartisan.com,
skinny-fit pants first appeared in the 1950s, worn by male stars such as Elvis
and James Dean, but were occasionally seen on women.
In the '70s and '80s, groups like The Ramones and Rolling Stones picked
up the fashion scent and started rocking out in tight pants.
In a more modest sense, jodhpurs, a type of riding trousers, have been
popular in equestrian fashion since the late 19th century, usually worn tucked
into knee-high riding boots. Eventually, in the new millennium, these styles hit
the runway; by 2006, flares had practically vanished.
But does this sudden boom in the trend have an underlying meaning?
It used to be said that hem lines were an indicator of the economy.
Rising hem lines meant times were good, while longer hems meant economic
downturn. Does this now apply to pants? Is the recent economic recession making
for slimmer times and therefore slimmer jeans? It is interesting to think about.
In the meantime, go out and buy a pair of these lean jeans, now
available in so many materials and colors it is mind-boggling. Spend $20 or
$200, depending on the brand and quality desired. Shop everywhere from Wal-Mart
to Saks Fifth Avenue.
A great thing about these jeans is their versatility. Wear them with
anything from Converse sneakers and a grungy T-shirt to flats and an expensive
sweater.
No matter how you wear them, keep in mind the history behind the current
fashion trend, and what it might mean.