Who Invented Ripped Jeans: The History Unveiled

Unless you’ve been living under the rock you’ve noticed the wide prevalence of ripped jeans in fashion. But do you know how and when this trend started? We are here to give you some background information that will let you speak some truth the next time your uncle judges you for choosing to wear pants with cuts and tears.

So let’s go back to the 1970’s where the trend of distressed denim had found its way into the punk culture and the broader fashion scene. Prior to this, ripped jeans were associated with the working class who couldn’t afford to buy new jeans. In the 1970’s the sex pistols had ingrained British Punk ideology to fight against status quo and conservative form of government. The early punk movement tore apart consumer goods as a symbol of revolt and expression of anger towards society. The impact of societal changes on the perception of ripped jeans was significant. The denim then became one of the main targets for the politically fueled deconstruction. Especially with both men and women wearing torn jackets and jeans adorned with pins and slogans.

Graffiti and ‘Street Art’, Blackfriars Rd, Manchester by Matt Harrop. This street art was revered by many in the Punk Rock era of the 1970s and 80s

During the same time in North America, the ripped jean started to become a fashion statement pioneered by cultural phenomenon such as Iggy Pop who claims to be one of the first to start this trend. In an interview with Vice, Iggy Pop said “[…] Then, as I began doing more gigs, these flimsy pants I wore would start to rip, and I left the rips in. I thought it looked right. It was the thing at the time for people like P.J. Proby or Jackie Wilson, or even James Brown, to leave loose basting instead of proper stitching in the crotch of the pants. Before the end of the show they’d rip onstage, and that was part of the gig. But I was the first one to just come out with the rips, as far as I know.”

Although the ripped jeans were a subculture phenomenon, by the 90’s the trend became very popular and were accepted by a wide variety of cultural influences from Kurt Cobain to Hip Hop, cementing its place as a mainstream fashion piece. With its wide acceptance, the ripped jeans’ political past became muted as its appeal grew to more people.

Today, it has been making a comeback with the resurgence of 90s grunge in fashion trends. While the ripped jeans no longer represent a strong political statement, it can be found in the wardrobes of many. People of varied tastes wear ripped jeans to express themselves in different ways, and at the end of the day, giving meaning to what you wear is important because it provides a means to symbolize your thoughts and opinions. So, leave a comment below and let us know why you wear your ripped pair of jeans.

Origins of Denim

Denim, the fabric that jeans are made of, has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. The word “denim” comes from the French phrase “serge de Nîmes,” which refers to a type of twill textile that originated in the city of Nîmes, France. Initially, denim was used to make sails and other durable goods due to its sturdy nature. However, it eventually found its way into clothing, particularly workwear, because of its durability and comfort. By the 19th century, denim had made its way to the United States, where it became a staple fabric for workwear, including the iconic blue jeans we know today.

The Birth of Jeans

Jeans, as we know them today, were born in the mid-19th century. In 1873, Levi Strauss, a businessman, and Jacob Davis, a tailor, patented the idea of using copper rivets to reinforce the pockets of work pants made from denim. This innovation significantly increased the durability of jeans, making them practical for working-class people who needed sturdy clothing for their labor-intensive jobs. Over time, jeans evolved from being merely functional workwear to becoming a fashion staple, with various styles and designs emerging to cater to different tastes and preferences.

The Rise of Ripped Jeans

Ripped jeans, a style of jeans that features deliberate tears and frays, emerged in the 1970s as a symbol of rebellion and nonconformity. The punk rock movement, which originated in the UK and spread to the US, adopted ripped jeans as a fashion statement, along with other forms of DIY fashion. Ripped jeans were seen as a way to challenge mainstream fashion norms and express individuality. The trend gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, with designers incorporating ripped jeans into their collections, further cementing their place in the fashion world.

Mainstream Acceptance

Ripped jeans gained mainstream acceptance in the 1990s, with the rise of grunge and alternative fashion. Bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam popularized the trend, and designers like Calvin Klein and Diesel began to incorporate ripped jeans into their collections. With the influence of these cultural icons and fashion designers, ripped jeans became a staple in many people’s wardrobes. Today, various styles and designs of ripped jeans are available to suit different tastes and preferences, making them a versatile and enduring fashion choice.

Evolution of Ripped Jeans

Over the years, ripped jeans have evolved to include various styles and designs. From the original punk rock-inspired ripped jeans to the more refined and fashion-forward designs of today, ripped jeans have become a fashion staple. Designers have experimented with different techniques, such as laser cutting and hand ripping, to create unique and intricate designs. Ripped jeans have also become a canvas for self-expression, with many people customizing their jeans with embroidery, patches, and other forms of DIY fashion. This evolution reflects the enduring appeal and versatility of ripped jeans in the ever-changing world of fashion.

Rohan Agarwal | 2024