In the ’90s, at the height of fashion’s grunge era, ripped jeans rose to popularity, often leading my parents (and probably yours) to ask me, "Why would you pay more for denim that was meant to look old and destroyed?” But that didn’t stop me from buying and wearing them on repeat. In recent years, I have completely avoided any distressed denim styles with holes or frayed hems, favoring more tailored styles instead. I honestly never thought I would go back to ripped denim, but I recently ordered a new pair inspired by what I’ve been seeing on celebrities and the street style scene. That’s right, everyone—’90s-inspired ripped denim is officially back.
Earlier this year, celebrity stylist Allison Bornstein told me that ripped denim would be huge for spring, and she couldn’t be more right. "Ripped jeans are perfect for the spring, and I’m not talking distressed—I mean big ’90s rips,” Bornstrein said. "They add a little casual and unexpected edge to a look and have an inherent sexiness to them.” Spring hasn’t even arrived yet, but I’m already seeing Bornstein’s prediction coming true. Ahead, see how celebs and the style set are wearing ripped denim and shop pieces inspired by their looks.
On Katie Holmes: Khaite Brianne Shirt ($349) and High-Waisted Distressed Jeans ($420); Stuart Weitzman Apogee Booties; Chloé Milo Bag
Katie Holmes has been putting a number of cool trends on the map, including ripped denim. Here, she offsets the ruggedness of her jeans with a romantic puff-sleeve top and sleek ankle boots. The perfect way to pull off the jean style, IMO.
Shop the look:
On Gigi Hadid: Re/Done High Rise Loose Jeans ($250); Schutz Analeah Boots ($295); Dmy By Dmy Olsen Sunglasses; Lizzie Fortunato Gala Wristlet
Gigi Hadid is another celeb who is endorsing jeans with big ’90s rips. Paired with a tailored blazer and sleek knee-high boots, her outfit is the perfect example of how to make distressed jeans still look polished.
Shop the look:
At New York fashion week, MyTheresa’s Buying Director Tiffany Hsu wore a pair of wide-leg jeans with holes cut into sides. Styled with a leather button-down, puffed-up bomber, and quilted shoes, she nailed the ultimate street style look.
Shop the look:
When it comes to ripped jeans, you simply can’t go wrong by pairing them with a blazer. Slip a denim button-down underneath for an unexpected way to style them.
Shop the look:
Next, discover the color trend that will be everywhere this spring.
-
If Minimal Effort, Maximum Style Is Your Vibe, Then These 29 Cool Items from Gap Deserve a Spot in Your Outfit RotationNYC It girls shop here.
-
Dark-Blue Jeans Are Definitely "In" for Fall 2025, But so Is This Other Elegant Denim WashTrust us–you'll want to include it in your cold-weather wardrobe.
-
Cozy Cashmere! Sleek Suede! Dark Denim! 32 Affordable Fall Pieces You’d Find In A Wealthy Person’s ClosetOh, did I mention they're under $250?
-
The Specific Way Everyone Stylish in NYC Will Be Wearing Boots With Jeans This FallIt's all about this styling trick.
-
No One Wears Jeans Like Chic Parisians Do—7 Effortless Outfits I'm Copying From the French This FallGet inspired.
-
This Dated Denim Pairing Is Suddenly the Chicest Way to Wear Jeans for Fall 2025Easy and stylish.
-
Whoa, Everything Is on Sale at Madewell Right Now—Some of These Chic Items Rarely Get DiscountedAt 30% off, these are bound to sell out.
-
Looking Chic at the Airport in 2025 Means Wearing This Shoe Trend With Straight-Leg JeansTake notes from Margot Robbie.
