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Forbes
Forbes
Lifestyle
Joseph DeAcetis, Contributor

Menswear: The Best Denim Brands And Trends In 2021

What better time than fall 2021 to refresh your denim styles. Throughout most of the this great nation, the mercury is dropping, leaves are changing color, and you are gearing-up to replace your summer pieces with fresh fall essentials. With that being said, there is one fashion staple that every man must have—a good pair of jeans. More to the point, denim has moved on since Levi Strauss and Jacob W.Davis patented the rivet in 1873. The rest of the story is part of our great American fashion history.

At this juncture, designers are experiment with denim in a new light. For example, when it comes to dressing for corporate ascension, Jack Of Spades denim is worth investing in because of its versatility and longevity. I own a pair and can confirm that jeans are so comfortable. And when worn with a sports jacket, the jean can often look better than a tailored trouser.

Jack of Spades Macrae Marran

As well as the fit, which should be neither too skinny nor too wide, the secret to pulling off the new styles is experimentation. For example, white denim is now being worn year round and it looks right. Another style to mention is the turn-up where you develop more of a tapered look. Turn-ups work best on rigid denim as it will retain the fold. The resurgence of dad denim is on the horizon and it feels right. This look is clean and mature and works real well in professional settings. It is a respectul look for the office. Yes, I confirm, Dad jeans is a good thing in 2021. This season also has all kinds of distressed denim- although I predict the death of distressed denim after this year. On a side note; if you are over 30 years old, and want to be taken seriously; don't wear distressed denim. Keep it simple and balance your look for mature styling.

Today, more than ever, denim is a must-have for men of all ages, all sizes, and all styles. In a word, Jeans have transformed from rugged workwear to high-fashion apparel —that we just can’t seem to live without.Throughout its nearly 150-year history; social, political, and pop-culture have all played a role in denim's evolution, and the trends that have come and gone seemingly come back again as a force to be reckoned with! Today, there are various cuts and fits to please curious consumers. For American men, denim has been a wardrobe staple that remains true and satisfying until today.

In recent years, product offerings saw a rise in the loose fitting, “baggier” style jeans The hallmark of this denim trend is a looser fit. These styles will continue to be on trend; especially among Gen-Z consumers—due to their style icons still rocking that look.

However, denim styles toda are the most versatile piece in your closet with a styles to fit most men's needs. In 2021, there will be a mix and range of styles that directly correlate to the current-era of menswear. Product offerings include boot-cuts as well as loose-fitting denim for the fashion-forward youth movement. But, on the same token this season has some great flattering styles for that man aiming to dress for success. 

With all that being said, I have compiled a fantastic list of the top denim options for all types of men this fall. 

Special Thanks: Pasquale Suriano

AG: 

Tellis Denim. Courtesy of AG

AG -Lighten up your fall wardrobe with cream denim. The Tellis, a modern slim jean. $198

Blue Delta Jeans: 

This classic indigo denim with performance stretch will be a go-to option for almost any outing. Customize this jean with earth tone threads for casual wear or pair with your favorite sport coat. Courtesy of Blue Delta Jeans Tyler Wright Photography

Blue Delta Jeans-Blue Delta's Dark Smooth Denim Jeans are a go-to for men this fall. Utilizing Blue Delta Jean’s exclusive online fitting system, every pair is custom made by expert seamstresses ensuring the perfect fitting jean. This jean stands out in both fit and function. The customization options allow for various looks and the custom fit means you don't have to sacrifice comfort for style. The middle-weight denim has performance stretch built in, making it an easy choice for casual wear while the rich indigo tone makes for a classic look with nearly any sport coat combinations. $450 

Brunello Cucinelli: 

Selvedge grey denim leisure fit five-pocket trousers Courtesy of Brunello Cucinelli

Brunello Cucinelli -The timeless style of the five-pocket silhouette is combined with Brunello Cucinelli’s refined materials. The finish of the grey cotton denim enriches the sporty look of these trousers, creating a worn effect that stands out for its unique characteristics and details making it a perfect elevated denim for the fall season. Their leisure fit offers soft proportions in the seat and a slightly low rise, while the cut of the leg remains close to the body. $1,075

Canali: 

ERGONOMIC FIT COTTON JEAN Courtesy of Canali

Canali—Five-pocket cotton jeans from the Black Edition line; features clean lines and an ergonomic fit that offers total comfort. Ideal for urban travellers who look for functional pieces in their metropolitan adventures. $425 

Cesare Attolini: 

Classic dark navy denim made with elastic cotton. Purely handcrafted. Button fly. Stefano Pasini

Cesare Attolini-Cesare Attolini sport denim trouser hand crafted by our master tailors; featuring slim pleated silhouette, button fly, soft sartorial waistband, contrasting hand top stitching. $1,850 

DEVIL-DOG Dungarees: 

DEVIL-DOG Dungarees Slim-Straight Men's Jean in Fremont Wash Courtesy of DEVIL-DOG Dungarees

DEVIL-DOG Dungarees—DEVIL-DOG's Slim-Straight jean is the perfect balance between skinny and straight styles—featuring a tapered leg while still offering a roomy fit. The Fremont wash is a new wash introduced for fall, and it's the perfect medium vintage indigo. The LYCRA® dualFX® technology that DEVIL-DOG jeans have come to be known for allows for extra flexibility, all day comfort, and lasting fit. This Slim-Straight style will have you in ultra comfort whether you're working from home, out at happy hour, or sitting around a bonfire. $79

Dior: 

Dior and Peter Doig Slim-Fit Jeans Deep Blue Camouflage Cotton Denim Courtesy of Dior

Dior - The slim-fit jeans are part of the collaboration with the artist Peter Doig. Crafted in deep blue cotton denim, they are adorned with an all-over DIOR AND PETER DOIG Camouflage jacquard, while hallmark DIOR topstitching is featured on the rear pockets. The jeans can be paired with the matching denim overshirt to complete the look.$1,200

DL 1961: 

The Cooper pants have a relaxed fit through the seat and thigh that is tapered from knee towards the ankle. Constructed with super soft knit denim (DL Ultimate Knit) each pair has an ultra soft feel with slight stretch for breathable all-day comfort. The cool Jade tone makes the style an instant fall styling staple. Courtesy of DL 1961

DL 1961-Known for being a leading vertically integrated sustainable premium denim brand, DL1961 utilizes 98% recycled water, clean dyes, renewable fibers, organic cotton and replaces harmful chemicals with laser and ozone technologies to create each jean, underscoring its state-of-the-art denim production. DL1961 takes anyone’s old denim and plastic bottles which are shredded into smaller pieces until they can be weaved into yarn with eco-friendly fibers, and integrated to current and upcoming collections. The Cooper and all the DL1961 products are "must have" styles for fall and beyond as they are sustainable denim that you could feel good about. $158 

Dolce & Gabbana: 

Dolce&Gabbana patchwork denim Courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana—Sicilian roots meet streetwear and urban becomes the indisputable star. New materials, such as corduroy patchwork on denim, and techniques to create sporty, contemporary looks. $1,825

Ermenegildo Zegna: 

White Stretch Cotton 5-Pocket Jeans Courtesy of Ermenegildo Zegna

Ermenegildo Zegna-The classic, straight fit denim to complement a variety of contemporary outfit. The pure white, 5-pocket jeans are crafted from stretch cotton for all-day comfort and finished off with a leather logo tag. $575

Lee Jeans: 

The Chetopa pants are outfitted with Lee’s signature workwear details, including a hammer loop, ruler side pocket, bartacks, and iconic Lee workwear labeling. SARAH_KEHOE/Courtesy of Lee Jeans

Lee Jeans—The perfect street style starts here, with the men's Lee® Heritage Chetopa work pants. These pants feature a loose fit through the thigh that tapers at the knee into a cropped, tapered opening to give off a cool, streetwear aesthetic that complements Lee’s iconic Chetopa fabric. The fabric is enhanced with earth-friendly Repreve® recycled fibers and TruTemp365® technology that cools your body on warm days and insulates for warmth when temperatures cool. $65 

Levi’s:

The Levi’s® Vintage Clothing 1947® 501® Men’s Jeans offer a practical style as we continue to navigate re-entering into the workplace. Courtesy of Levi’s

Levi’s-The Levi’s® Vintage Clothing 1947® 501® Men’s Jeans offer a practical style as we continue to navigate re-entering into the workplace. You can’t go wrong with this truly classic pair of denim that is an archival reproduction of Levi’s® 1947 501® jeans that feature some historic details – a modern, post-war slimmer fit, watch pocket rivets, uniform arcuates on back pockets, a big “E” single sided Red Tab™, and mid-wash rigid denim. The classic yet sleek fit with a dark clean wash will help you look and feel your best from the office into the weekend. $260.

Louis Vuitton: 

Louis Vuitton Staples Edition Regular Denim Pants Courtesy of Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton- These Regular Denim Pants are a casual classic, tailored from authentic denim fabric. They are cut in a regular fit, with a leather tab adorned with an engraved staple on the rear waistband. At the back, the pointed pockets are a brand new signature detail. $645 

Lucky Brand: 

Lucky Brand 100 Skinny Advanced Stretch Jean in Gilman Quartz Courtesy of Lucky Brand

Lucky Brand—The 100 Skinny is Lucky Brand's newest, slimmest men's fit. Featuring a sleek narrow leg for a modern look and ample stretch, the jean is designed to move with the wearer for all-day comfort. The denim pairs well with your favorite graphic t-shirt and sneakers on the weekend, and dressed up for the office with a cable knit sweater and sleek boots. $99 

Mavi: 

Mavi Jeans Men's Marcus Grey Organic Move Courtesy of Mavi

Mavi—Part of Mavi's Move denim collection, these jeans have a super stretchy and soft fabrication that moves seamlessly with you. Level up even further with sustainable organic cotton and a grey wash that’s sleek and sophisticated and perfect for fall. $118 

Neon: 

SID - Blue Vintage Wash. Abrasion and repair on right thigh and blowout repair on left knee. Courtesy of Jim Diehl

Neon - NEON jeans are a way of life.  Every guy has his own style and nothing beats the look and comfort of a pair of Blue vintage repair. The painstakingly researched fit is perfectly on point. The 98% cotton 2% elastane makes for a pair you don't ever want to take off. With an abrasion repair on the right leg and one on the left knee plus five pockets and a button fly you're ready to take on your day. $175 

Outerknown: 

Local Straight Fit: Selvedge in Indigo Courtesy of Outerknown

Outerknown-A timeless straight leg jean that sits at the waist and is relaxed through the thigh and down the leg. Made of 100% organic cotton selvedge from the Candiani Mill in Italy. $168 

Paul Stuart: 

Vintage Finish Denim Pant by Phineas Cole at Paul Stuart Courtesy of Phineas Cole at Paul Stuart

Paul Stuart Cut from distressed and washed denim with paint splatter detail, this vintage inspired, 5 pocket jean has a worn-in flattering fit that looks great with a simple cashmere sweater and biker jacket. $565

Peter Manning NYC: 

Jeans from Peter Manning NYC for Fall Joseph Paradiso/Courtesy of Peter Manning NYC

Peter Manning NYC-Peter Manning NYC has jeans for every size man that are crafted from a cotton stretch fabric mix that's pre-washed for softness.  These are available in 5 denim rinses and are available in classic, skinny, slim and standard fits. $108 

Rag & Bone: 

Rag & Bone Fit 2 Slim Fit Mid Indigo Cotton Loopback Jean in Creighton. Courtesy of rag & bone

Rag & Bone—The latest in denim innovation at rag & bone is the range of men’s Loopback Denim. Knit in an ultra-lightweight, four-way cotton stretch using Loopback construction that mimics a French Terry, the standard five-pocket jean has been re-engineered for extra comfort and the softest touch. Available in a variety of light and dark indigo washes, the Loopback styles are the signature jean of the season. $225

Ralph Lauren: 

Slim Fit Selvedge Jean Courtesy of Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren-These dark-indigo jeans combine Japanese selvedge denim with fine Italian craftsmanship for an impeccable take on an indispensable classic. $495

Rolla’s: 

Stinger Black Gold Courtesy of Rolla’s

Rolla’s -Let your inner rockstar out in these skinny mid rise cut jeans! This seasonal wash will be the perfect complement to your most badass boots. $99 

Slowear: 

Indigo chino Tapered Fit Denim Trousers Courtesy of Slowear

Slowear-Innovation and sartorial expertise feature in these trousers, which combine a classic chino with fabric typically used in five-pocket designs. Here they are enriched by the stretch element, which ensures maximum comfort, and pre-washed for that authentic vintage look. $335 

Stefano Ricci:

STEFANO RICCI Luxury Jeans Courtesy of Stefano Ricci

Stefano Ricci -SR presents these modern jeans with a tapered style for improved comfort this fall. The dark wash pair boasts a leather patch styled with crocodile leather inserts and the iconic SR eagle head in signature galvanized palladium. The crocodile trim is also elegantly echoed on the pockets, and the contrast stitching and decorative hardware give an innovative elegance to confirm they will remain a casual staple! $1,850 

Todd Snyder: 

Slim Fit Stretch Jean in Blacktop Wash Courtesy of Todd Snyder

Todd Snyder-The Blacktop Wash Jean is a new wash that looks grayish black and is crafted to look broken-in from the first wear as if it were  a vintage denim find from the 1970s. Classic details include antique copper rivets, chain stitching on the coin pocket, a suede-embossed patch on the back and TS embroidery on the wearer’s right side. This is a perfect jean for the dark denim fan who wants a little extra comfort and ease of movement. $158 

Versace: 

LA GRECA PRINT JEANS Courtesy of Versace

Versace-A wardrobe staple, these jeans feature a slim silhouette and golden Medusa buttons and rivets that enliven the style. The design features a flocked La Greca print - a geometric pattern with sharp angles, clean lines and a strong palette that represent power and self-confidence. $1,295 

 Warp + Weft: 

FRA is a trend-forward barrel fit carpenter pant inspired by the utilitarian spirit of Frankfurt. Courtesy of Tory Rust

Warp + Weft If you are looking for a pair of durable jeans for work, carpenter jeans are a must-have for this Fall season. FRA is cut with room to breathe in the seat and thighs, coming to a gentle taper at the ankle. Milo is a dark rinse wash with contrast stitching for a bit of an edge.$88 

Wrangler: 

Wrangler’s Heritage Larston Jean Courtesy image credits. "Courtesy of Wrangler”

Wrangler-This tried-and-true slim and tapered style is the ideal “everyday” jean. It pays tribute to our past with legendary details, including copper rivets, five-pocket styling, a leather patch with the Wrangler rope logo, and the iconic ‘W’ embroidery on the back pockets. Keep it casual and wear it with your favorite tee or throw on a leather jacket for a night out. $99.00

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