Designer Denim Days Are Numbered

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Ladies, help your men out here, the days of designer denim are numbered. In fact, its okay for guys to have a little more fun with their bottom half than the standard denim allows - cargo pants are hot, for casual days. This time, the cargo pant is dressed up, its not your worn out pair from Old Navy. Rag & Bone showed a dark mushroom-colored pair on the Spring 2008 runway and unlike mass-market styles, these pants are made with super fine twill and cut trim for a sleeker look.

Still talkin' bout your guys, dressier occasions call for proper trousers but they don't have to be too proper. Anything-but-understated pant styles in chalk stripes, tweeds and checks will make looking cool a little more fun than a straight leg, flat wash jean could. Designer Tim Hamilton's baggy trousers easily combine comfort and style with a button fly, watch pocket and side pocket, as well as adjustable straps at the waist. Check it out: these look good paired with deck shoes, Converse sneakers or for a more conservative take, lace-up dress shoes.


For women, the hands-down replacement for denim is the dress, and part of the appeal is that a dress is an instant outfit, it's easier to slip on in the morning.
What to pair with it: pair a simple shift with opaque tights and flat boots for a day-to-evening look.

Designer denim brand Seven For All Mankind, which has branched out into skirts, slacks and yes, dresses, makes a 100% cotton, dove-gray dress with a loose, forgiving silhouette that's perfect for running weekend errands. It can also be dressed up over a turtleneck and tights for work. There are even discreet pockets on the hips in which to store your keys and wallet, just like your favorite pair of jeans.
Still stuck on denim? Not to worry. It'll always be around, but right now, there's just something else more interesting to wear.
In Pictures: Wardrobe-Worthy Denim Alternatives