The fun and spontaneous side of denim fashion is evident at WWDMAGIC in Las Vegas, Aug. 13-15. For Spring ’19, women’s denim brands are experimenting with washes, embellishments and new shapes.
UBM vice president Kelly Helfman shares with Rivet the must-have trends for the new season and how streetwear and Western influences are resulting in unexpected denim novelties.
Rivet: What are the key fits trending in women’s denim?
Kelly Helfman: Wider legs are not going anywhere. With the ’80s and ’90s influencing fashion, denim is getting wider and streetwear is influencing our looks more than ever.
Rivet: What are some key wash stories for Spring ’19?
KH: We are seeing bi-color washes at the luxury level all the way through to fast fashion.
Rivet: Denim has been in a fashion cycle. Do you think this will continue for Spring ’19?
KH: Absolutely, it is not going anywhere. Women wearing menswear suiting will continue to be strong, but denim will stay a part of casualwear for ladies. Spring will bring more distressed denim and jean jackets of all shapes and sizes.
Rivet: What are some novelty denim items to look for?
KH: Look for denim belt bags and denim sets, like jean skirt and matching top or jacket. For non-denim trends, look for western and cowgirl-inspired details such as fringe and studs.
Rivet: Do you think the emergence of streetwear will have an impact on women’s denim?
KH: It already has. From drop crotch to baggy 90’s denim, we are seeing it now and will see it even more in 2019. Tailored looks will remain, while some designers will take more risks with street inspiration.
Rivet: Are there any new notable brands to look for at the show?
KH: At WWDMAGIC some new denim brands include Robin K, Denim Fueled Jeans, Denim Couture, Montana Denim and more. Along with our returning favorites like Hidden Jeans, Miss Me, YMI, Just Black, Pistola and Flying Monkey. These are all super affordable lines, mostly retailing under $100.