How to Wear Faded Denim
No acid-wash flashbacks here: Pale jeans are a fresh alternative to classic indigo.
By Adam Glassman

Photo: Chris Eckert
Natalie Geld, 48
Nonprofit Creative Director
Trend Alert
Faded denim is back in a big way, from light blues to sun-bleached pastels. "This is such a cool wash," says Natalie of her Yummie by Heather Thomson jeans. "And the waistband is perfect: I can sit and bend without adjusting it. I also love how the slimmer bootcut makes my legs look so long."
Jeans, Yummie by Heather Thomson, $108. Jacket, Zara, $90. Shirt, PureDKNY, $215. Necklace, Ben-Amun. Belt, BCBG Max Azaria. Ring, Pamela Love. Shoes, Giuseppe Zanotti Design.
Trend Alert
Faded denim is back in a big way, from light blues to sun-bleached pastels. "This is such a cool wash," says Natalie of her Yummie by Heather Thomson jeans. "And the waistband is perfect: I can sit and bend without adjusting it. I also love how the slimmer bootcut makes my legs look so long."
Jeans, Yummie by Heather Thomson, $108. Jacket, Zara, $90. Shirt, PureDKNY, $215. Necklace, Ben-Amun. Belt, BCBG Max Azaria. Ring, Pamela Love. Shoes, Giuseppe Zanotti Design.

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
If you were afraid to wear last season's superbright jeans, try these softer shades. Just don't pair them with pastels unless you want to look like an Easter egg.
Clockwise from top left:
AG Adriano Goldschmied, $168; agjeans.com
Boss Orange, $195; hugoboss.com
Joe's, $179; joesjeans.com
Jordache, $17; walmart.com
Topshop, $76; topshop.com
Christopher Blue, originally $138, now 15 percent off with code OPRAH; christopherblue.com
Clockwise from top left:
AG Adriano Goldschmied, $168; agjeans.com
Boss Orange, $195; hugoboss.com
Joe's, $179; joesjeans.com
Jordache, $17; walmart.com
Topshop, $76; topshop.com
Christopher Blue, originally $138, now 15 percent off with code OPRAH; christopherblue.com

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
Hot Trend
Gap's '70s-inspired powder blue wash combines retro flair with modern design. ($70;
gap.com)

Photo: Sergio Kurhajec
How to Get it Right
- Look for jeans that are consistently faded, as opposed to patchy. "You don't need lighter spots that could make areas like the hips, thighs, or butt look bigger."
- Pair with darker pieces—like a black tee and heels—in winter; switch to lighter tops and accessories once the weather warms up. "Whites look great with faded denim, as do neutral-toned shoes."
Next:Check out our complete guide to denim
From the February 2013 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine