Patterned Denim Is The Post-Lockdown Lift You Need Right Now

When the pandemic began, loud fashion was placed on the back burner. Instead, the world turned to joggers and holey old leggings, with many of us wanting to cloak our bodies in comfort as we weathered out the storm. But as lockdown restrictions began to ease, we started to collectively yearn for real clothing – particularly items that would boost our mood.

This feeling was encapsulated in a viral tweet that read, simply, "no more plain jeans". Accompanied by a photograph of loud, printed denim, the message was clear: it was time to inject some fun back into our clothing. This summer, we're taking that message and running with it as we embrace vibrant patterns on an array of light wash denim, coloured and classic black jeans.

One of the brands doing this best is New York-based Eckhaus Latta, whose swirly spray-paint jeans quickly became a favourite of Instagram It girls everywhere. Other designers like Collina Strada have also taken on the trend with a range of graffitied and squiggled designs. But if high end is out of your budget, you’ll be happy to know that the high street has its fair share of fun jeans, too, with Urban Outfitters and Weekday all putting their own spin on the look.

To shop the best printed denim on the market right now, click through the slideshow ahead...