While thrifting with my friend, Beth Jones yesterday we talked about vintage denim brands we love. I couldn’t stop talking about my Kenny Rogers jeans. I’ve mentioned and shared some favorites on the Private IG several times, but I think they deserve a special place on the portal and in your inbox! In case if you’re new to vintage denim, I consider the following brands more mainstream and definitely on the radar: Levis, Lee, Jordache, Wrangler and Guess. The ones I’ve listed below are definitely more low key and if you find them while thrifting, jump on it!
Hot Tip: Always check measurements! Every denim brand is different so measure your favorite denim (I recommend 2 pairs) to get accurate measurements. For example, Levi’s run about 2 sizes smaller while the Kenny Rogers jeans I bought were a size 26 (my modern size).
Vintage Kenny Rogers Western Collection
Kenny Rogers Western Collection by Karman jeans are 70s – 80s era denim goodness! The jeans feature a classic high rise and 5 pocket style in mostly straight leg style. I love the “chaps” style ones that I got, but there are classic denim looks with embroidered back pockets. My favorites are: “a little bit of country’” and “lady”.
My finds:
- Vintage Kenny Rogers Jeans Size 26 Karman Western Dark Wash High Waist Inseam 37, $60
- Deadstock 1980s Kenny Rogers jeans by Karman. Vintage novelty collectibles. Extra long, $165
- Vintage Kenny Rogers Rose Lady bootcut Jeans. Size says 15, $60
- Vintage 1970s Kenny Rogers Jeans by Karman Dark Wash, The Gambler Western Style Size 34, $44
- Vintage Kenny Rogers Western 100% Cotton Rose High Waisted Mom Jeans 26X32, $75
Bill Blass
If you’re looking for super high waist mom style jeans (think pleating and tapered leg), then Bill Blass denim from the 80s and 90s should be at the top of your list. I do love the detailing on the waist of most of the denim, but many of the jeans don’t have back pockets (which is a must for me).
Fun fact: Nanny Fine (The Nanny) wore many Bill Blass jeans!
My finds:
- Vtg 80s Bill Blass Jeans Womens 14 Medium Wash High Waisted Pleated Tapered Mom, $35
- Bill Blass Womens 80s 90s Vintage Tapered Leg Jeans Blue Cotton Denim 12, $23
- 80s Pleated Jeans – 27″ or snug 28″ waist – Bill Blass – High Rise Waisted – Blue Cotton Denim Pants – Vintage 1980s, $45
- Vintage 1980s Bill Blass midwash high waisted tapered jeans size W 27, $117
Gloria Vanderbilt by Murjani
Did you know Gloria Vanderbilt jeans were the First Designer Jeans in the World and the First Jeans exclusively designed to fit a Woman? In the 1970s and ’80s, Gloria Vanderbilt sought out to create jeans that were figure-hugging, upscale, and would “really hug your derrière.” Guess, Calvin Klein and Jordache would copy her styles later on! Her denim is super high waist and features a beautiful straight leg. I want to get them in a dark wash to wear with heels and boots!
My finds:
- Vintage 70s high waisted jeans, $50
- 1970s Gloria Vanderbilt Murjani High Waist Dark Denim Jeans, $192
- ICONIC Vintage Gloria Vanderbilt MOM Jeans 27W X 28.5 In High Waist 70’s 80’s, $65
- Vintage 1980’s Gloria Vanderbilt High Waist Jeans 27”, $75
- VTG 80s Gloria Vanderbilt for Murjani Highwasited Jeans Sz 5, $36
