Denim Dressing @ SM

MANILA, Philippines - Denims are a perennial classic regardless of what an individual’s personal style may be. Since it was first created to be worn as workwear in the ‘40s, the rather humble and functional nature of denim fabric has revolved over the years to cater — rather phenomenally — to a wide range of individuals and the many temperaments and subcultures that each era in fashion may represent.

The ‘80s power dressing, for example, saw the resurgence of raw washes and finishes that were cut close to the figure, turning these pieces into high-ticket fashion items. In the ‘90s, however, we were witness to the edgy and stylishly rebellious mood of grunge brought about by the time’s recession, hence bringing forth treatments in denim that focused more on achieving an aged or vintage effect. The year 2000 to the present made room for a more defined, specialized if not highly segmented approach in denim design, making room for various looks, cuts and aesthetic sensibilities. This, we can perhaps credit to Tom Ford’s highly embellished denims created for the House of Gucci or Helmut Lang’s astounding denims sprayed in silver.

This year, the fashion arena — especially at SM — serves as the most apt venue for denims to showcase the many facets it has managed to embrace throughout the seasons. It has transcended time and evolved unceasingly to defy and ultimately define the ever-changing trends. The possibilities when it comes to denim dressing are endless and this season’s most coveted pieces only emphasize that denims are — first and foremost — a perennial classic.