The Denim Wash About to Dominate Every Cool Outfit This Fall

Two women wearing dirty denim wash jeans with jackets in fall.

(Image credit: @aishafarida; @_livmadeline)

published 12 September 2025

There’s a new denim wash taking over, and it’s about to make every denim outfit you wear this fall feel instantly cooler. Forget pristine, just-pressed jeans—the style set is gravitating toward what we’re calling dirty denim. Think a lived-in, slightly dingy wash that looks like your jeans have been worn in all the right ways. The subtle fading across the hips and thighs gives off an effortless, “I’ve had these forever” energy that feels equal parts nostalgic and modern.

What makes dirty denim so appealing is its inherent nonchalance. Where crisp blue or inky black denim can read polished, this wash leans into a grittier aesthetic that’s surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re pairing it with a sharp blazer and pointed flats for contrast, or doubling down with a vintage tee and boots, the vibe is effortlessly undone. It’s the type of denim that doesn’t need much styling to look vibey—its lived-in feel does the heavy lifting.

Fashion insiders are already championing the wash as the new must-own, and it’s not hard to see why. The dingy undertones make any outfit feel cooler, almost as if you plucked your jeans from a vintage archive. Plus, dirty denim is seasonless—it works with a lightweight tank now and looks just as good tucked into a sleek coat once the temperatures drop. It’s a subtle departure from the dark-wash jeans dominating recent seasons, but one that feels refreshing and wearable.

If you’re ready to test-drive the look, start with a relaxed straight-leg or wide-leg silhouette in a dirty wash. Balance out the rugged vibe with refined pieces—think structured tailoring, luxe leather accessories, or sharp heels. Come fall, expect to see this wash (ranging from a slightly 'dirty' hue to full-on 'dirty' dyes) everywhere, from street style to your favorite retailers’ new arrivals. Dirty denim is the not-so-clean upgrade that’s about to influence every wardrobe.

See how to style the latest denim trend and shop the ‘dirty’ wash along the way.