What happened to jeans? (2024)

Jeans, a clothing staple, has come undone in the world of teen style. This becomes clear on dress down days as students are never really seen wearing the former wardrobe staple anymore.

“They are very uncomfortable. I would much rather wear leggings or sweatpants than jeans,” stated senior Emily Schuman.

Jeans can make an outfit look nicer, though. Although students at Walsh Jesuit are not big fans of wearing jeans on dress down days, teenagers may choose to wear them for special occasions, because nowadays wearing jeans makes an outfit look more dressed up.

“I don’t mind wearing jeans if I am going somewhere to look more dressed up, but I would never wear jeans on a dress down day,” said senior Anna Tillinghast.

The Covid-19 pandemic had a big impact on jeans going out of style. Since people were stuck inside their houses for a long period of time, they preferred to dress more comfortably. Jeans certainly do not fit under the category of comfortable to many young people today. Although there are many different types of jeans, they are all considered uncomfortable as indicated by this fashion trend.

As of 2021, any kind of denim pants are over. Students would much rather be comfortable in school than wear jeans. Jeans are seen as uncomfortable due to the way they fit. Some students may have to wear a belt with them, which makes them even more uncomfortable. Sweatpants and leggings are more loose and comfier option.

“Jeans are gross. I do not like jeans because the material is too rough and feels bad against my skin,” stated senior Joey Vitatoe.

At WJ, students have to wear a uniform every single day. Students have to wear khakis which share a level of discomfort similar to jeans. When finally given a day to dress down, students are continually shunning the once fashion staple in favor of comfort.

As a seasoned fashion expert and enthusiast with an in-depth knowledge of clothing trends and style preferences, I can provide valuable insights into the apparent decline of jeans in the world of teen fashion, as discussed in the article by Angelina Porinchak.

Firstly, it's crucial to acknowledge the significance of personal comfort in shaping fashion choices, especially among teenagers. The article highlights the sentiment that jeans are perceived as uncomfortable by students, leading to a shift in preferences towards more relaxed alternatives like leggings and sweatpants. This resonates with the broader trend observed during the Covid-19 pandemic, where individuals prioritized comfort over traditional styles due to prolonged periods of staying indoors.

The article mentions senior Emily Schuman expressing her preference for leggings or sweatpants over jeans due to their comfort. This sentiment is reflective of a larger cultural shift, where casual and comfortable attire has gained prominence. As an expert, I can attest that the perception of comfort plays a pivotal role in influencing fashion trends, and this is evident in the decreasing popularity of jeans among teens.

Furthermore, the article touches upon the idea that jeans may still be chosen for special occasions, emphasizing the dual nature of their role in modern fashion. This aligns with the concept that fashion is often contextual, with individuals opting for different styles based on the occasion or environment. Senior Anna Tillinghast's comment about wearing jeans for a more dressed-up look supports this notion.

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on fashion choices is a crucial aspect discussed in the article. The prolonged period of lockdowns and increased time spent at home has shifted preferences towards more comfortable clothing, and jeans, with their perceived discomfort, have suffered as a result. This observation aligns with broader fashion industry trends seen during the pandemic, where athleisure and casual wear gained popularity.

The article also touches upon the discomfort associated with jeans, citing the rough material and the need for a belt as contributing factors. These details highlight the tactile and practical aspects that influence fashion decisions. The contrast with sweatpants and leggings, described as more loose and comfortable options, underscores the preference for ease of movement and a relaxed fit among the younger demographic.

In the context of the school environment described in the article, where students are required to wear uniforms, the designated dress-down days offer a rare opportunity for self-expression through clothing. However, the rejection of jeans in favor of more comfortable alternatives, despite the similarity in discomfort with khakis (the required uniform), further emphasizes the strong aversion to the perceived discomfort of jeans.

In conclusion, the article presents a nuanced exploration of the evolving preferences of teenagers in the realm of fashion, with a focus on the decline of jeans. The evidence provided, including direct quotes from students and the consideration of broader cultural shifts, aligns with the expertise I bring as a fashion enthusiast. Understanding the intricate balance between style, comfort, and societal influences is key to comprehending the dynamics of contemporary fashion trends among teenagers.