The Millennial Favorite Denim Trend That's No Longer Outdated In 2026

Imagine this — it's 2010, you've just heard of a new app called Instagram, Lady Gaga is taking over the radio, and you're going everywhere in your pair of distressed jeans. You may argue that plenty of things have changed since then, but in a way, 2026 does feel a bit like the early 2010s. In fact, Instagram is still big, Gaga continues to be a beloved musician, and as far as your jeans go, well ... you might just want to resurrect that old distressed pair of denim from the back of your closet. Yes, ripped jeans are back in 2026, making our millennial hearts weep with joy.

To understand the comeback trend more, we've enlisted the help of Joseph Katz, a luxury fashion and lifestyle expert and creator of The Katz Walk YouTube channel. "Ripped jeans are making a comeback because fashion is shifting back toward individuality and personality," he tells us exclusively. "After years of quiet luxury and minimalist dressing, people are looking for pieces that feel more expressive and lived-in. Ripped denim has always had a rebellious spirit, but today's versions feel more intentional and elevated." We already know that Y2K fashion has been back for years, and with its resurgence, many trends from the '90s, 2000s, and early 2010s are particularly popular. "We're also seeing a continued influence of '90s grunge and Y2K fashion, especially with younger consumers discovering these trends for the first time and millennials embracing them again in a more modern way," Katz adds. "There's a sense of nostalgia, but it's being reimagined for 2026." So, if you're wondering just how you can pull off ripped jeans this year, we've got you.

Different eras had different distressed denim trends. While the '90s were all about looser jean silhouettes with larger holes, the late 2000s and early 2010s were big on skinny jeans with subtle distressing. Today, the trend has taken a more creative direction, with a variety of different shapes of jeans having distressed details. "What I love about today's distressed denim is that it isn't just casual anymore. Designers are incorporating frayed hems, strategic distressing, patchwork details, and even embellishments like pearls, studs, and decorative stitching to give ripped denim a more fashion-forward feel," Joseph Katz tells us exclusively. "It's no longer just a pair of torn jeans — it's become a statement piece."

Katz adds that unlike the millennial era of distressed jeans when most people wore the trend in the exact same manner, this time around it's all about your specific style and how you incorporate the statement piece into your wardrobe. "It also fits perfectly into the broader fashion landscape right now. We're seeing consumers embrace more personal style rather than following rigid trends," he tells us, explaining, "There's also a growing appreciation for craftsmanship, upcycling, and pieces that look unique rather than mass-produced. Distressed denim naturally lends itself to that aesthetic because no two pairs feel exactly alike." This means that in 2026, you can truly explore what type of distressed denim you like, and go for pieces that suit your style rather than simply hopping on the trend. In fact, you can also take the DIY route by following our best tips on how to distress your own jeans at home. 

While distressed jeans seem fun in theory, in practice, styling them can certainly seem intimidating. However, since they are such a statement on their own, there isn't much you can do wrong. "Pair distressed jeans with a structured, fitted blazer or a cool coat," Joseph Katz tells us exclusively. "Think of a fitted blazer or a crisp, oversized shirt. This elevates the garment from 'casual streetwear' to 'modern chic.'" You can also go elegant and chic with a classic button-up or casual by rocking a simple tank top. In fact, in 2025 we discussed how ripped jeans are no longer outdated if you wear them with the right top.

As far as the silhouette goes, Katz suggests a looser fit more reminiscent of '90s distressed denim than the skinny versions we loved in the late aughts. "Wide-leg or straight-leg silhouettes are currently outperforming the classic skinny-distressed look, providing a more relaxed, mature aesthetic," he explains, adding that you can "use metallic trims, belts, or jewelry to add a touch of polish to the worn surface." 

Rocking a pair of distressed jeans that seem worn and torn naturally is a great look to achieve that nonchalant fashion aesthetic. "Focus on rips and frays that appear natural, such as at the knees or hems, rather than excessive shredding," Katz shares, adding, "Instead of just letting the denim rip, treat the repair as a design element. Using contrasting threads or patches (darning) adds a personalized, artisan touch that feels very current." For those who love creating a unique clothing piece, distressed denim offers endless creative options. While we highly suggest thrifting for a distressed pair (or one you can distress yourself), Katz also recommends the brands Ksenianschiader, Still Here, Vigoss, and Edikted.