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Worn Identity: 10 Terrific (Slightly) Distressed Jeans

By Christopher Blomquist Published March 22, 2017

Although most denim purists are loath to wear any pair that is not constructed from raw selvedge denim that will age naturally with everyday wear and tear, there’s no denying that this process takes time, patience and quite a bit of washing and abuse to achieve that desired “lived-in” look on your favorite pair of jeans. But those of you who don’t have months and years to invest in breaking in a pair of jeans, designers and brands have you covered this fall. Distressed jeans and destroyed denim are definitely a thing these days and although the extreme versions of this look are probably best left to Kayne and his crew, subtler less over-the-top pre-distressed styles can lend a dose of casual, vintage-inspired flair to an outfit and allow you to rock this look without coming across as a trendy twit.

Here are ten pre-aged options for the time-crunched that are available now in a wide variety of prices. Consider donning one of them until that rare pair of Japanese raw denim you adore manages to age gracefully and organically – two or three years from now.

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Slim Straight Jeans in Destroyed Medium Wash by Abercrombie & Fitch, $39

abercrombiefitch_slim_straight_destroyed_medium_wash — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Skinny Jeans in Destroyed Light Wash by Abercrombie & Fitch, $39

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Holden Hybrid Slim in Nomad by Citizens of Humanity, $228

citizens_of_humanity_holden-in-medium-wash_1-coh-shareds-conflicted-copy-2016-02-16 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Rowan Relaxed Slim in Stockport by Citizens of Humanity, $258

citizens_of_humanity_rowan-in-stockport_1-coh-shareds-conflicted-copy-2016-02-16 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Snap in Light Stone Destroyed by Dr. Denim, $80

dr_denim_light_stone_destroyed — Image used with permission by copyright holder

501 CT Stretch Jeans in Hillman by Levi’s, $79.50

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Jake Slim Leg in Used Extreme Vintage by Mavi, $89.99

mavi_jake — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Federal Crescent Deconstructed Jean by Paige, $209

paige_federal_crescent-destructed_01 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Kinkade Jeans – Jah by Volcom, $75

volcom — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Raw Edge Jeans by Zara, $79.90

zara — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Christopher Blomquist

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Christopher is a native New Yorker who lives and works (mostly) in Manhattan. A longtime fashion journalist, he served as…

Fashion & Style

G-Shock’s original DW-5000c gets mighty full metal reissue

Steel evolution: G-shock's full metal 5000 series celebrates iconic dw-5000c heritage

Casio G-shock original product shot

G-Shock highlights its heritage with the 5000 Series Full-Metal GMW-B5000D-1C, a watch that reinterprets the groundbreaking 1983 DW-5000C. This new release blends the classic styling with updated materials and technology, marking an evolution for the brand’s core design.
The original DW-5000C nearly faded into obscurity but was ahead of its time. It gained traction with younger skaters and surfers, especially after being featured on American television. Today, it’s considered an icon among watch enthusiasts and everyday carry fans, establishing G-Shock’s reputation for toughness and practical utility.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is the first Full Metal model to feature the original’s signature red, blue, and yellow accents—each color carrying meaning: red for “the passion to take on challenges,” blue for “excellent water resistance,” and yellow for “outstanding shock resistance.” Previous Full Metal versions used different color schemes, so this release is especially significant for longtime G-Shock fans.
The construction is a major upgrade from the original’s resin case and rubber strap. The GMW-B5000D-1C uses a stainless steel case and linked bracelet, making it more durable and long-lasting while retaining the iconic look that made the DW-5000C famous.
Modern features include a Tough Solar quartz movement, replacing the old lithium battery and drawing power from sunlight. Bluetooth connectivity allows the watch to sync with a smartphone for easier control and enhanced functionality, bringing the 1980s design into the digital age.
Despite these updates, the essential G-Shock principles remain, especially the shock resistance that first set the brand apart. The GMW-B5000D-1C captures the original spirit, honoring it with new technology and improved durability.
Alongside this release, G-Shock also introduces the GM-B2100SD-1C, which applies the same color theme to the first Full Metal watch’s round case. This two-part launch demonstrates G-Shock’s commitment to honoring its roots while exploring new expressions within the Full Metal series.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is featured on G-Shock’s website, though pricing and availability details have not yet been announced. The timing suggests a focus on collectors and fans seeking a piece of G-Shock history, now reimagined with premium materials and modern features.
This release illustrates how classic designs can evolve through new materials and technology, preserving the core qualities that made them legendary and appealing to both longtime G-Shock enthusiasts and newcomers discovering the brand’s origins.

Fashion & Style

Chopard honors Sir Stirling Moss with Mille Miglia limited edition

Racing heritage: Chopard's stirling moss tribute and gts upgrade showcase lucent steel excellence

Chopard Mille Miglia press shot

Chopard honors racing driver Sir Stirling Moss with a Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph. At the same time, the brand updates its popular GTS Power Control with a new in-house movement. Both watches, released in 2025, use Chopard's Lucent Steel alloy, which is known for having the whitest, brightest steel finish in fine watchmaking.
The Stirling Moss tribute watch recognizes the Mercedes-Benz driver whose 722 300 SLR made racing history. The 40.5mm chronograph features a brass dial with a silver opaline finish, recalling the matte silver of Moss's "Silver Arrows" era Mercedes-Benz. Only 70 pieces exist, each individually numbered and priced at $10,800. The watch comes with a period-appropriate racing strap, featuring large punched holes and matching stitching.
Despite the high price, Chopard equips the chronograph with an ETA 2892 base movement rather than one of its own calibers. The movement is 3.75mm thick, runs at 4Hz, and offers a 54-hour power reserve. It is also COSC certified. Some collectors might expect an in-house movement at this price, but the 2892 is known for its reliable engineering, and many enthusiasts prefer it over alternatives like the 7750.
The Mille Miglia GTS Power Control 2025 Race Edition is even more appealing, as it finally receives Chopard's in-house 01.02-M movement. This caliber, measuring 28.8mm wide and 4.95mm thick, features cutouts reminiscent of cooling vents and uses color schemes inspired by car engines. It provides a 60-hour power reserve via a rotor with multiple openings.
A technical review notes, "This movement provides a big upgrade for the MM GTS, and it offers much movement for the price." The 43mm case houses a galvanized salmon dial with a circular satin finish. Grade X1 Super-LumiNova, with a black tint, creates a distinctive look against the salmon background during the day.
The GTS is priced at $7,630, with only 250 pieces available. It offers strong value, considering the in-house movement and Lucent Steel construction. The power reserve display, located between 8 and 10 o'clock, is styled like a car fuel gauge, reinforcing its appeal to car enthusiasts through practical design elements.
Both watches demonstrate Chopard's dedication to automotive history. They show how different approaches—tribute chronographs and technical upgrades—can appeal to various collector tastes. The Lucent Steel construction ensures both models display Chopard's renowned bright finish, which must be seen in person to fully appreciate.
The contrast in pricing and features makes the GTS Power Control especially attractive for enthusiasts seeking the quality of an in-house movement at a more accessible price.

Fashion & Style

Cat Footwear celebrates its 100th anniversary with a historic boot collection

Cat Footwear celebrates 100 years with new collection

cat footwear collection

For fans of architecture and innovation, the brand CAT is synonymous with many historic milestones. CAT is a renowned company worldwide, from building some of the most recognizable structures in the world to making everyday life easier. While the CAT symbol is instantly recognizable to almost everyone, fewer are aware of the brand’s footwear line. Part of the Caterpillar Inc. company, Cat Footwear creates work boots equally tough and resilient as their machinery. As Capterpillar Inc., or CAT, celebrates its 100th anniversary, the brand has released a trio of new designs to mimic some of its most notable historical moments. While not your average boot, these new styles are synonymous with the brand’s legacy and its work in bettering the future.

Celebrate CAT’s Centennial Anniversary in style