With the entire world being forced indoors, now is the perfect time to watch (or, most likely, re-watch) some classic movies. For denim heads, this could also serve as a dose of denim inspiration, considering many are choosing cozy athleisure over jeans while they lounge around the house.
Rivet put together a list of the best denim movies to watch now that you have more time on your hands—and less denim on your body.
The Outsiders
Set in 1960s Oklahoma, “The Outsiders” follows the lives of a teen gang that brawls with a rival group, resulting in tragedy—and the trademark line “Stay gold, Ponyboy.” The movie is rife with rugged denim looks, including cut-off vests, denim jackets with popped collars and lots of distressed jeans.
The Sandlot
Also set in the 1960s, “The Sandlot” is a classic coming of age story about a group of young boys that forms an enduring bond one summer while playing baseball. Watch this to tap into the nostalgia trend and get inspired by the denim overalls and cuffed jeans shown throughout.
Brokeback Mountain
“Brokeback Mountain” profiles the secret love of two cowboys in rural America. Set mostly on farmlands, much of the wardrobe revolves around heritage denim cowboy fashion: Denim shirts and worn-in jeans, work boots and cowboy hats.
Thelma & Louise
For rebellious women vibes, watch “Thelma & Louise” and let the powerful duo inspire you to revisit your most iconic early ’90s pieces. The film documents two women’s crime spree throughout the Southwest, and their wardrobe mostly consists of high-rise, light-wash jeans and cut-off tank tops.
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Grease
Set in the late ’50s, “Grease” profiles two high schoolers in love—and in denim. With the men in cuffed jeans in nearly every shot, this movie is a perfect choice for those who love denim and classic singalong films.
The Breakfast Club
At one high school set in the ’80s, a rebel, princess, jock, nerd and outcast all have two things in common: detention and a distinct fashion sense. Watch “The Breakfast Club” for ’80s fashion inspiration represented by a variety of archetypes.
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
They say all denim has a story, and “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” demonstrates just that. The film, which follows a group of friends who pass around a pair of thrift-store jeans that fits each of them perfectly, is especially relevant today, as secondhand denim is more popular than ever.
Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood
“Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood” tells the story of an actor and his stunt double on their quest to fame. Set in Los Angeles in the late ’60s, the film features a wardrobe full of the decade’s staple styles, including a vintage denim Wrangler jacket that denim heads can especially appreciate.
The Dukes of Hazard
“The Dukes of Hazard” follows two cousins who turn to illegal means to save their uncle’s farm. Whether or not you’ve seen the movie, you’re familiar with the term ‘Daisy dukes,’ a style of cut-off denim shorts infamously worn by Jessica Simpson’s character in the 2005 remake.
Drive
Ryan Gosling stars in “Drive,” a movie documenting the life of a Hollywood stuntman who doubles as a getaway driver—all while wearing a lot of denim. Throughout the film, Gosling’s character is shown wearing a dark-wash Levi’s trucker jacket.
