Both synonymous with the ’80s, the former involves distressing denim with (most typically) pumice for a weathered effect, while the latter refers to denim that’s been bleached with chlorine for a splotchier, edgier “lived-in” fade (as endorsed by the era’s punk, grunge and metal bands). Now that we’ve got that fashion geek trivia out of the way, here are the main reasons why you should own a piece. This Pre-fall, brands from Louis Vuitton to Helmut Lang to Gucci are bringing this casually cool look back – and it’s not limited to jeans. Next season, even more labels will make sure that nothing comes between you and such denim. – KYS
![Female](https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/magazine/Wfdu9Uwo8XSkoabmeB6ycSq1mdDpeog3jN54Uavd.png)
![Portrait of Tammy Strobel](https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/media/14179/c/landscape.jpg)
Both synonymous with the ’80s, the former involves distressing denim with (most typically) pumice for a weathered effect, while the latter refers to denim that’s been bleached with chlorine for a splotchier, edgier “lived-in” fade (as endorsed by the era’s punk, grunge and metal bands). Now that we’ve got that fashion geek trivia out of the way, here are the main reasons why you should own a piece. This Pre-fall, brands from Louis Vuitton to Helmut Lang to Gucci are bringing this casually cool look back – and it’s not limited to jeans. Next season, even more labels will make sure that nothing comes between you and such denim. – KYS
![My Reading Room](https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media1m7W1Rwm/4kAQjtgFZOrFekzqQ6PfeYCnD1ToPb9ah2mstOdV.png)
Denim jeans, Balenciaga. Acne Studios denim jacket, Club21 Forum. Patent leather pumps, Burberry. Right: Denim trenchcoat, MSGM. Reeditions Capsule polyamide-blend maillot, $790, Eres.
Photography Vee Chin Styling Imran Jalal Hair & Makeup Sha Shamsi, using Keune & Urban Decay Model Hannah/Mannequin
![My Reading Room](https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media1m7W1Rwm/CBVfvR0NMbM0hPGHQusn5pNxao71XuhzgqyNFXfg.png)
Helmut Lang denim jeans, Club21 Forum. Cotton T-shirt, $130, CK Calvin Klein
![My Reading Room](https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media1m7W1Rwm/FJIEBAyNUebj04GYTcqnMx8pGEgDeGLNfV8vSxFa.png)
![My Reading Room](https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media1m7W1Rwm/5O7RZi9cWwOZ56zH4CsFzNJN9vPZ6xuJWP4ZvyI0.png)
Denim jeans, Stella McCartney. Wool shirt and neoprene booties, Prada. Prices unavailable unless stated
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