10 Types of Denim Washes and How to Wear Them
Let’s be honest, denim solves all of our problems (well most of them). Whether you’re going out for drinks, running errands, or even tapping away at work, the perfect pair of jeans can get you through anything. Denim styles are easy to dress up and down, highly durable, and–most importantly–the choices are endless! Ready to become a denim pro? By the end, you’ll know the difference between a light wash and a medium wash. (fingers crossed!) Read on for the inside scoop on our favorite types of denim washes, finishes, and how to wear them all.
Raw & Dark Wash Denim
Denim gets its signature faded look through a special washing process (hence the term dark/light/medium wash!). Jeans that are left unwashed are called raw or dry denim, which offers a deep, dark shade. The beauty of raw denim is that it conforms to your figure and becomes uniquely yours over time! One tip to keep your denim as dark as possible is to only wash it once before you wear it and then sparingly after that.
Style tip:
— Dark wash denim is versatile and can be part of both daytime and nighttime outfits. Pair with heels and a high-neck top for a night out. Throw on a T-shirt and some loafers during the day.
— Make a T-shirt and jeans combo pop by wearing colorful shoes or accessories.
— Darker colors are better for more elevated formulas. For a night out or a casual work outfit, pair your dark wash jacket or jeans with light or neutral-colored blouse.
— Pair your darker denim with a floral top. Because your jeans are so dark, it will make bright colors and florals stand out.
Medium Wash Denim
There are many different washes of jeans, but this is usually a shade lighter than dark wash denim, which means it’s been washed and dried more times. Medium wash denim is more casual, so you’re able to pair it with a wider variety of colors and textures.
Style tip:
— On cooler days, pair some medium wash jeans with a knit sweater for added texture.
— Tuck any top into wide-leg jeans and pair with booties for a cute and casual daytime outfit.
Light Wash Denim
Compared to most types of jean washes, light washes are two to three shades lighter. They can even tow the line of being considered bleached denim! Nothing beats a good pair of light wash denim because it’s perfect for a summery look. It’s also great for dressing down any outfit.
Style tip:
— We love a good denim on denim combo. Mix different washed jeans with jackets or tops for the perfect Canadian tuxedo look.
— Because light wash jeans are so… light, pair them with a darker top for some contrast.
Acid Wash Denim
Denim jackets that are acid wash are SO in right now. Acid wash denim is made by mixing chlorine and water together during the washing process. One of the biggest perks of having acid wash denim is that you don’t need to intentionally damage your jeans!
Style tip:
— Couple your acid wash denim jacket with a pair of black jeans or a solid tee for an edgier, yet not too busy look.
Black & Grey Denim
Black and gray denim are great for a monochrome look. Because these pants are typically solid and dark, you’re able to pair them well with lighter tops or tops with patterns. Who doesn’t love an excuse to wear something bold?
Style tip:
— Pair with a light-colored button-down for a casual take on a business look.
— If you’re looking for something more serious, add in a tee with a matching black blazer.
— You can even throw in a cheetah or any fun animal print top to balance out this denim.
White Denim
White denim is great because it’s super light and comes in a variety of styles, such as boot cut or with tears. For a more laid-back look, get white ripped jeans. Remember not to wash them often because the white color may become dull. If you do happen to get stains on white denim, no worries! For common stains like coffee, ink, and grass, mix dish soap and water. Use a clean cloth, and dab this solution onto the stain. Turn the denim inside out and rinse the stain out with cool water, your denim is saved!
Style tip:
— Colored wedges or a bright top go perfectly with white denim pants or a white denim skirt.
Colorful Denim
Show off your personality with colorful denim pants. There’s denim out there for almost every color of the rainbow! It’s important to be smart about what you pair with colored denim, so your outfit is not too overwhelming.
Style tip:
— A neutral-colored top, like white or black, is a great option for colored denim so you don’t have too much going on.
— Continuing on the neutral train, choose a pair of neutral-colored shoes to go with this pop of color.
Denim Finishes
Distressed
For an edgy look, opt for distressed denim. Distressed denim has fraying and rips which is great if you are looking for something more casual.
Style tip:
— Couple distressed denim jeans with a graphic tee and sneakers, or dress it up for a night out with a pair of block heel sandals.
— You can also find distressed jean jackets to add a casual aspect to any look.
Shibori
Shibori is basically tie-dyed denim. It can be done on any shade of denim and is common in both pants as well as jackets. This could be a fun DIY project, or you could find plenty of Shibori-inspired denim styles out there as well!
Style tip:
—This look is perfect for wearing to a music festival or just showing a fun side of your wardrobe.
— Pair with a plain top to balance the busy pattern of your denim.
Whiskering
Don’t think too hard on this one because whiskering is exactly what it sounds like. The technique of whiskering makes lines or “whiskers” on parts of the denim, such as the thighs. It gives a more worn-out lightly-washed look. Whiskering is done by drawing lines with sandpaper and then stone washing them, super intricate!
Style tip:
— You can pair these jeans with almost anything! Wear whiskered jeans with your more casual outfits for a great and effortlessly stylish summer look.
Denim comes in all types and styles, which makes it so great to have on hand. Get your hands on all different kinds of denim, so that you can either dress up or dress down any outfit. From jackets to jeans, you can find denim in all kinds of washes at thredUP. Stock up and go get your denim on.
Top 21 Girls’ Clothing Brands for Stress-Free Shopping
Online shopping for girls can be downright difficult! Juggling growth spurts, shifting girls’ clothing trends, and your little one’s constantly evolving personal style is a hefty task. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of 21 most popular girls’ clothing brands.
1. Rylee + Cru
Whether it be a puffy jacket for the winter, or a cute tankini for the summer, Rylee + Cru will never disappoint when it comes to ensembles. Explore patterns and textures that work great for back to school additions to a girl’s wardrobe.
2. Kate Quinn Organics
This girls clothing brand has mastered simple styles with really fun prints. Stock up on Kate Quinn Organics basics with graphic prints that are anything but basic. Their exciting closet pieces go a long way.
3. Mini Boden
\The British brand’s children’s line is always on point. With Mini Boden you can dress your daughter up as your would-be mini-me in styles that you’ll covet, like gold ballet flats and chambray dresses.
4. Lilly Pulitzer
Florals and paisley and fruit prints galore! There’s a reason Lilly Pulitzer has been queen of the world of kids’ designer clothes for decades – colorful, preppy style just doesn’t expire. For spring and summer dresses that can be worn from school to camp to the boardwalk, Lilly is your gal. It’s no wonder why it’s such a popular girls’ dress brand.
5. Hanna Andersson
Hanna Andersson has so many cute options for girls between the ages of 3 months old and 14 years old. Put loads of fun ensembles together in all sorts of fun hues and patterns.
6. Tea
As far as kids clothing brands go, Tea is perfect for your future globe-trotters if you’re looking to snag high quality, creative pieces for less.
7. Vineyard Vines
Everyone deserves a well-rounded, stylish wardrobe! Start ’em young in Vineyard Vines looks—with a range of items from cool puffer vests to khaki pants to very cute dresses.
8. Primary Clothing
Primary Clothing delivers the ideal combination of popping colors, girlish prints, and above all reliable fabrics that can handle a little wear and tear.
9. Janie and Jack
This reliable brand makes everything pint-sized and adorable. Whether you’re browsing for her next beach getup or an outfit for her to wear to Grandma’s 75th birthday, Janie and Jack is the place to look. Need a go-to toddler clothing brand? Look no further.
10. Nike
Itty bitty sneakers, cutesy hoodies, and track pants. Nike carries such a large variety of clothes for every occasion and season.
11. Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren on the little ones is absolutely darling. This is the best kids clothing brand to buy secondhand, as it typically retails for sky-high prices, but can be found for up to 90% off on thredUP.
12. Disney
Ready to make their princess dreams a reality? Disney is another super fun kids’ clothing brand that offers your little one the chance to rep their fave characters on their clothes or dress up just like them.
13. Billabong
Billabong is the go-to place for your little one. Nab some fun graphic tees, cozy sweats, and more while you can. You can’t beat these adorable styles!
14. Cat & Jack
Cat & Jack has everyday style essentials galore! Score the cutest matching sets for a variety of ages (you might even want one yourself), unique prints & patterns, and loads colorful options to keep fashion fun even for the littlest ones.
15. Abercrombie
This popular girls clothing brand will always be a staple. Shop Abercrombie styles for the perfect basics that can go the distance in any closet. Their style range is so wide, it creates the perfect opportunity for the youngins to start experimenting with their fashion sense.
16. Zara
Do you happen to know a six year old fashionista? Is there a girl in your life who loves dressing up and trying new trending looks? If so, Zara is not only great for adults, it’s also a popular girls’ brand with additional options like Zara Baby and Zara Kids.
17. Adidas
You can’t put an age limit on streetwear! Put the little ones in sport mode when they have on styles from Adidas. Whether they prefer the athletic look or they need on-the-go styles, this brand is definitely the move.
18. Crewcuts
We love J.Crew for ourselves and we love it even more for the mini me! Check out Crewcuts for the young ladies in your life and prepare to wish you were twelve years old again and flaunting the chicest olive green khakis.
19. Jessica Simpson
Prints, prints, and more prints! Jessica Simpson has a wide variety of baby girl onesies that you’ll be absolutely obsessed with. With bows, ruffles, and prints of all kinds, you’re bound to fall in love with everything you find from this brand.
20. Old Navy
Old Navy is a staple for a reason! Their clothing stays timeless and endlessly mix-and-match-able.
21. Justice
Sequins, sparkles, funny phrases, bold color combinations… Justice has it all for the growing girl who’s keen to experiment with her personal style and isn’t afraid to stand out from the crowd.
20 Brands Like Free People to Shop if You’re a Boho Babe
Free People is often the first on the list for people naming off the best hippie chic brands to shop. It’s so in demand that the on-trend styles can be hard to get a hold of! Instead of waiting for that Free People midi dress or flare jeans to drop out of someone’s cart, why not spread the love with our favorite brands that are just like Free People instead? Check out these brands like Free People that come in a variety of different price points, happy thrifting!
1. We the Free
Free People’s main line gets a lot of love, but you definitely can’t sleep on the private labels (especially on thredUP, hint hint). We the Free can be found exclusively at Free People and is an obvious addition to the list. From super flared jeans to tie-dye sweatshirts, they have all the trappings for that cool Cali vibe. They also offer staple items that fully encompass a more classic style.
2. Anthropologie
Free People’s older, more mature sister, Anthropologie, also has a great selection for items you can wear every day or to work. They offer the same playful and fun prints, but the styles themselves err on the more conservative side with more attention to details, such as embroidered frocks or fringed jackets. Plus, their plus size dress variety is top tier.
3. Show Me Your Mumu
Love frilly ruffle dresses? Obsessed with leopard print midi skirts? If you answered yes to either of these questions, you need to check out Show Me Your Mumu ASAP. With their huge selection of flowy dresses and their incorporation of florals and stripes, Show Me Your Mumu is making a name for itself as the one-stop-shop for unconventional mavens and even unconventional brides. Be on the lookout for fun collaborations, like the all pink Malibu Barbie collab! Truly a dream.
4. For Love & Lemons
This brand is known for its lace and ruffle touches on almost everything. They have fun prints like lemons (are you surprised?) and offer customers a huge selection of undergarments and lingerie. If you’re interested in this brand, make sure you save your search on our site to find them before others do! Trust us, For Love and Lemons in high demand.
5. Reformation
While Reformation carries a hefty price tag (except on thredUP!), paying a little extra is definitely worth it. Milkmaid tops, polka dots, and seasonal prints perfectly describe Reformation’s style. To top it all off, we love Reformation’s sustainable mission, it’s one of the best places for a guilt-free splurge! They are 100% carbon, water, and waste neutral, and even provide sustainability reports each year to update their shoppers. Love Reformation but don’t have the budget? We’ve partnered with Reformation so you can clean out with us and get Reformation credit in return.
6. Zara
Hippie chic is a perennial trend that never goes out of style, which makes it a perfect fit for Zara. If you’re on the hunt for stores like Free People but more affordable, you’ve found your place! Zara is known for staying on top of the latest trends. Find a variety of dresses, such as wrap dresses, pleated dresses, and floral printed dresses to fill your closet.
7. Tularosa
Another brand similar to Free People that doesn’t get the love they deserve is Tularosa. They have a wide range of printed, ruffled, and wrap dresses to choose from. They also incorporate pastels and brighter colors into their clothing. Shop this brand if you want to inject light-hearted or girlier vibes into your wardrobe.
8. Lulus
Lulus has the formula figured out when it comes to looks for any occasion. From flowy dresses to cute blouses and everything in between, their clothing is loved by everyone. For some simple basics with a contemporary twist, Lulus is your next go-to brand.
9. & Other Stories
This brand is known for its chic silhouettes and neutral tones found on everything from trendy tops to sleek pants and more! Not to mention & Other Stories clothing oozes cool and makes for an effortless transition from day to night.
10. Modcloth
It’s safe to say that if you’re looking for a retro or vintage brand, Modcloth takes the cake. They have everything from A-line dresses and skirts to totally unique shoes, sweaters, and jumpers. With oodles of colorful prints, this size-inclusive brand lets you show off your personality!
11. Farm RIO
Farm RIO specializes in bright colors, standout prints—suffice to say that statement pieces are their thing. Their items are incredibly versatile so they go with almost everything! You’ll want to check this brand out if you’re looking for closet essentials that pop from one season to the next.
12. Francesca’s
Boutique brand Francesca’s is home to not only clothes like Free People but a wide variety of accessories, like everything from cute cabbie hats to festival-ready clear bags and totes. You can count on them for stylish clothing that is both trendy and affordable. If you’re looking for a romper or a dress, check out Francesca’s and you’re sure to find something.
13. One Teaspoon
Easy breezy styles aren’t only known for floral dresses and lace accents, they’re also known for cool jeans and printed pants. One Teaspoon is home to a variety of jeans with loud personalities. From super flared to cheetah print, they have it all. With this brand you can find whatever bottoms you need to complete your ‘Free People’ look.
14. Fame & Partners
Another brand that’s similar to Free People is Fame & Partners. They are known for their exquisite evening looks that often feature floral prints or are embroidered for that extra ornate punch. For clothing that stands out from the crowd, be sure to save a search for this must-have brand.
15. Cloth & Stone
Nobody likes denim as much as Cloth & Stone does. Find items like pants, jumpsuits, shirts, and dresses made of super soft denim. The vibe is rustic yet comfy with casual favorites like flannels and joggers. You can find this brand online and in stores like Free People.
16. Lovestitch
Is Lovestitch literally stitched with love? You bet it is! Lovestitch is the brand to know for all things unconventional. If you’re head over heels for flowy, floral blouses or comfy, casual jumpsuits. Did we mention that it’s also super affordable?
17. Böhme
Take it back to the basics with Böhme’s simple and chic pieces. Böhme is a modern brand that has all the essentials you need. Think silky smooth button-downs and high quality wide-leg jeans. This brand has the style staying power to effortlessly get you through every season.
18. Lucky Brand
Lock in your luck by shopping for Lucky Brand. Lucky Brand specializes in denim, but you’ll for sure find more hippie chic styles. Cop some vintage-style graphic tees, cozy printed cardigans and your next pair of jeans, of course. For all things easy breezy, be sure to put Lucky Brand at the top of your list.
19. MINKPINK
If fun and fresh dresses scream eccentric to you, then look no further than MINKPINK. A brand under Princess Polly and Urban Outfitters (more shops like Free People!), MINKPINK is the hot-spot for flowy dresses of all prints and styles. From floral maxis to paisley minis, you’ll definitely find the perfect dress for you.
20. VICI
This brand is certainly on the come-up for all things glam and unconventional, with eye-catching prints, silk blouses to bell-bottom jeans and cords. Shop VICI to spice up your Free People adjacent wardrobe.