Seeing the Light (Wash)

I can distinctly remember a time when I swore I would never wear light wash jeans. It was definitely the 2010s and I actually remember scoffing at them as I clung to my dark wash skinny jeans, tunic-length sweaters and J.Crew statement cluster necklace in my daily wardrobe rotation. I had a million-and-one reasons to be a light-wash hater, with reason number one being that they were “unflattering.” Well. Funny how times have changed.

Look at me now, I am actually eyeing up my favorite picks of light wash jeans. I am really leaning into the bleached-but-not-too-distressed light washes, especially for weekend wear as the slouchier fits are in. They’re comfortable and lately all I want to wear. Maybe after all this time, they were meant to be a part of my closet. Maybe finally, I am seeing the light…*ba dum tshhh*

Clockwise from top left: Agolde Riley Crop Jean | Sezane Brut Sexy Bleach Denim | Madewell Curvy Perfect Vintage Straight Jean | Banana Republic Slim Jean

The following content may contain affiliate links. When you click and shop the links, A. Taylor Studio receives a commission.

These four above: I am really excited about these jeans, and frankly a bit distressed *pun intended* because there are a few really good options out there and it’s hard to pick just one. I am not sure what I would pick if I had to. I have tried on a number of these, and have seen them IRL and would say they are all by far the best fit and quality on the market (at this price point). The Agolde jeans are wildly out of my price range, but on second thought, if you’re paying in the $130s for Madewell, what’s a couple bucks more?

More is not more when it comes to jeans. Also, trendy labels that pose as luxury brands (with the super high price tag) seem to disappoint me more often than not. My big takeaway is, listen to your gut, and follow your staples! Also, you only really need a few good pair of jeans…not dozens.

While I am on that thought, it’s important to remember that from a sustainability standpoint, jeans are a big culprit in fast fashion damage. The fashion industry is notorious for its water use in denim and cotton production (for those who didn’t know, cotton is a VERY thirsty crop!). Bleaching, dyeing and manufacturing in general is also very costly in resources when it comes to denim production. It makes me wonder if I could find a good pair of thrifted or consigned denim (Levis would be the gold-standard, I think). If there’s anything I am taking away from writing this post, it’s that all things make a way of coming back in (and also out) of trend.

And sooooo…those are my thoughts at this time. :)

ciao, xo

Follow Along On Instagram