iCandy
Yes, the 1980s are officially back, and part of this new wave is a penchant for bleached acid-wash jeans. The trend was resurrected by 'it' designer Christophe Decarnin at Balmain, whose ripped acid-wash skinny jeans sold out before they even arrived in stores. Other brands such as Just Cavalli have followed suit, making them one of spring's biggest hits.
When I say acid-wash jeans, not any pair of bleached denims will do. Extreme black/white or blue/white combinations are the most desirable, and I spotted a few fashionistas already in the trend.
I found Patricia outside a Soho gallery wearing vintage Levi's blue acid-wash jeans tucked into Ugg boots (above). On top she is wearing a simple black tank top and dark cardigan, accessorised with a grey wool scarf bought in Denmark. I like how she's kept it simple on top, allowing her jeans to stand out even more. A cool necklace featuring a pair of handcuffs adds to her rebellious but chic look.
Mandy (above right) has opted for a more feminine look with her subtle, black acid-wash skinny jeans. She wears them with a long leopard print T-shirt, black quilted leather chain bag and a pair of Gucci-inspired studded leather heels. To balance her boyish look, she has accessorised with neon-pink earrings that match her nail polish, gold bangles and a chequered hair band around her wrist as a bracelet.
Since acid-wash jeans make a statement on their own, it's advisable to tone down other elements of your outfit. A flattering T-shirt or tank top worn with a battered leather jacket will do the trick. Another good option is a studded military jacket and studded shoes, as seen at Balmain. To dress up your denim for the evening, choose a layered feminine top. Chunky heels look great with acid-wash jeans, as do studded gladiators.
Diesel (Pacific House, 20 Queen's Road, Central, tel: 2525 0540) has a cool pair of pencil-leg blue acid-wash jeans while styles at Miss Sixty (Bauhaus, UG-26, Festival Walk, 80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, tel: 2265 8066) include pale black acid-wash skinny jeans. For summer, I found blue bleached denim shorts at Zara.
Ash (available at Lane Crawford, shop 117A, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, tel: 2155 8066) makes affordable yet stylish chunky heels such including a pair of brown leather wedge sandals.
