THE JEANIUS The ’90s denim jacket is back. Sadly, Friends and Britney-and-Justin are not
Amy Bannerman on how to get the most out of the jacket that’s so retro, but so now
Remember the ’90s, when so many monumental world events occurred? Britney and Justin fell in love (I’m still not over the break-up), your Tamagotchi starved to death, and you had your hair cut like Rachel from Friends (but didn’t have sex with Brad). Well, guess what: they’re back.
Admittedly, I am a denim obsessive, but it is my belief that the greatest export of this era was the denim jacket. While there is always a place for ultra-feminine, shrunken denim jackets – the kind you can’t drive a car in – this summer, it’s time to go bigger or go home.
The ’90s denim jacket is specific in proportions – it’s wider, longer and slouchier, which makes it much easier to wear than its slim counterpart. Here’s why…
1 It’s great for layering. Let’s face it, the UK summer evenings are hardly tropical, so one of these, thrown over a sweater and summer dress, will be your saviour.
2 It looks quite mannish, so it’s the ideal offset to something pink, floral, sheer or lacy.
3 You won’t get boob-squish when it’s done up. No one wants a jacket that feels like a skydiving harness.
4 The oversized proportions make legs look slimmer, so balance out the bottom half with a short hemline, skinny jeans or a fitted long skirt – oh, hi, Kate Moss!
5 Summer skirts can leave you feeling a bit exposed – especially when a breeze flashes the whole street your undercrackers. A longer length holds down your hemline.
6 For a 2017 update borrowed from the ’90s, wear an unzipped hoodie underneath (we love the faded ones from ASOS Reclaimed Vintage) for a Vetements feel.
7 Your boyfriend can borrow it, so he will love you more. Just don’t be mean to him when it goes walkabout.