There's something about retro-inspired looks that make them considerably dreamier than their modern-day counterparts. And this summer, vintage-inspired denim is definitely back with worn-in washes, distressed details, and swoon-worthy throwback cuts — harkening back to '70s-, '80s-, and '90s-era styles that feel fresh and classic all at once.
And when better to embrace said-dreamy retro vibes than in July, when that mid-summer stupor calls for easy and effortless style? In partnership with Abercrombie and Fitch, we've tapped five Bustlers to show us how they interpret this season's retro-style denim trend. From light and dark washes to wide-leg and straight-leg fits, find your favorite vintage-inspired denim below.
Jenna
Jenna's A&F Style Pick: High Rise Ankle Straight Jeans, $78.
Three words that describe your denim style right now: versatile, relaxed, timeless.
What made you pick this look? I love the super classic light wash and high rise on these. The leg is wide enough to look relaxed, but the fit at the waist and hips keeps them feeling polished. To keep the vintage vibe going I paired these with a super breezy daisy-print silk wrap top, fringed mini saddle bag, and simple slides with a wooden heel.
How do jeans influence your style? I live in jeans, and frequently build my whole look around whichever pair I'm feeling. A vintage-inspired light wash calls for a totally different look than, say, ripped black skinnies or a cropped wide-leg.
How else might you style this piece? This pair is completely timeless, but decidedly casual. The high rise means I can wear them with virtually any crop top, and the ankle cut means they'll work with anything from sneakers to booties.
Sierra
Sierra's A&F Style Pick: High Rise Wide Leg Ankle Jeans, $78
Three words that describe your denim style right now: High-waisted, vintage, cropped.
What made you pick this look? I picked these jeans because I've been loving the white denim look so much, and wanted to try it out myself. I'm also a big fan of any jeans that are high waisted.
How do jeans influence your style? I love the laid-back, vintage vibe of these jeans, so I decided to reflect that overall feeling in the rest of my outfit. I ended up pairing the pants with a vintage T-shirt and some chunky leather sandals. Definitely channeling some '70s workwear vibes!
How else might you style this piece? I definitely see myself dressing these jeans up with some strappy heels and a dainty, off-the-shoulder top and woven bag for a more summer-y feel on a night out.
Elly
Elly's A&F Style Pick: High Rise Wide Leg Jeans, $88; Striped Scoopneck Tee, $28
Three words that describe your denim style right now: Groovy, fun, and relaxed.
What made you pick this look? Wide-leg jeans are usually tough to find for my frame, but this pair fit perfectly! To finally land that enticing combination of '70s dream girl-meets-laid-back tomboy was the stuff of denim dreams come true.
How do jeans influence your style? Retro-inspired denim makes me want to break out the roller skates and vinyl, but I'll settle for flatform sandals, a striped knit baby tee, and full-force hair. I paired both with a netted bag my sister brought me back from Mexico, and a knotted silk scarf added the finishing touch.
How else might you style this piece? Wide leg jeans are so versatile. I could wear them with wooden wedges and an off-the-shoulder top for dinner, or platform sneakers and a band tee for hanging at home.
Neelum
Neelum's A&F Style Pick: High Rise Ankle Straight Jeans, $78
Three words that describe your denim style right now: Cropped, 90’s-inspired, relaxed.
What made you pick this look? These jeans are super comfortable, the wash is perfect for summer, and the stripe detail and raw hem add something special to a classic cut.
How do jeans influence your style? My style is very casual, so when I reach for my jeans, I’m trying to elevate my look a bit while still feeling comfortable. I finished the look with an embroidered off-the-shoulder top and '70s-esque espadrille flatforms.
How else might you style this piece? When the weather cools down, I’d style these jeans with some leather ankle boots and a black turtleneck. To dress up the jeans this summer, I’ll pair them with a cute pair of colorful sling-back mules and a silk cami.
Bry
Bry's A&F Style Pick: Ripped Supper Skinny Jean, $88
Three words that describe your denim style right now: Edgy, retro-inspired, fun.
What made you pick this look? I like mixing hard and soft. The boots and jeans are a little more hard and the Mickey shirt adds in some fun.
How do jeans influence your style? The jeans fit really well and go with a lot of different pieces. I like adding diverse items to my wardrobe and these jeans are perfect for that.
How else might you style this piece? I'd wear these jeans with a sleeveless shirt on hot days and a leather jacket in when it gets cooler in the fall.
This post is sponsored by Abercrombie & Fitch.
Photos: Lauren Perlstein; Hair and Makeup: Ashleigh Ciucci; Senior Editor: Jenna Wexler.
