Introducing- Rachael

Bonjour Mes Belles, my name is Rach and I am the new intern extrodinaire here at PIOP.

I am here to learn about owning, operating, and business. My motivation comes from my passion for fashion, as cheesy as that sounds, but I live, breathe, and eat clothes...well and Starbucks too! So my dream is to make an alliance with PIOP and own my own store! I am just a sponge soaking up information, who wants to have fuu-uun!

So speaking of fun I entered in this competition last year with Teen Vogue to attend Teen Vogue's Fashion University. I sent in my sketches and water colors (my artistic forte) of Marc Jacobs, Chloe, Prada and Burburry ads and promos. Well Teen Vogue liked em so much they selected me to go to NYC and hear a bunch of wonderful lectures from Vera Wang, Tommy Hilfiger, Tim Gunn, Erin Featherstone, and the Teen Vogue staff.

I will be here for the events, so come stop by & say hi.

Luuuurve,

Rachi xox

PS That is me outside in the freezing cold wearing a hat, bracelets and necklace sold at PIOP!

JUST IN- New Tees from Sharp Shirter

Our Newest Tees in the Store!

Totally cute and unique. by Sharp Shirter. Check them out before they're sold out! $29 each at our store and soon at our events.

Heart Padlock Necklace on TV

Marty Flint's Heart Padlock Necklace was worn on an episode of Dr. 90210 ("Blonde's Eye View) on one of the actress patients in Los Angeles. Hot!!!

Come buy YOUR necklace at Party In Our Pants!

All Those Who Want a Hotter Bod Instantly Raise Their Hand!!!

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh yes (That was my best orgasmic typing)!!! Give it to me!

What woman out there doesn't think the idea of instantly sliming "problem" areas is fricking amazing? As the old saying goes, you can never be too rich or too thin. Well, we can't help with the rich part, we can help with the thin thighs & amazing ass part.

Introducing SkinnyJeans (R), the latest greatest brand to come along since sliced bread. Made with special reinforced panels, they make you instantly look like a Baywatch babe. Midrise, stretch denim, no embellishments...just clean, stylish, flattering bootcut jeans. Trust me, you will be in LOVE with these jeans! You can order them online at cybersamplesale.com, at our store (starting in October) or at our events nation-wide.

No more open flys!

From Andy K of Denimology...

Here is one of these ideas that are so simple it's hard to imagine that someone hasn't thought of it before. You know when you have a pair of tight jeans and the zip is a bit dodgy and just won't stay all the way up. Well now there is incredibly simple solution to your problem - the ZipHolder is like a mini elastic band which you attach to your zip and then connect to the button on your jeans meaning the zip can no longer slide down.

http://www.zipholder.com/

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I think this sounds cool, but this would not be fun when you are out drinking, fumbling at your zipper in the ladies room. So lushes beware!!!

We are on the FRONT PAGE of the Ann Arbor News!!!

My store hit the FRONT PAGE of the Ann Arbor News today (above the fold, dudes!!!!) as well as the front page of the Business Section. Woohoo!!! Not only was I in the picture, my little celebrity dog Sprite was as well (dress in his 7fam denim jacket). Click HERE to check out the article!!!

Art Fair!

We are gearing up for Art Fair over here on South U July 16-19th. We will be hosting happy hour each day so be sure to stop by. We are thrilled to bring y'all some killer new designers, keep an eye out for more pics.

Make art not war!

PIOP featured in the Ann Arbor Observer!

Denim Treatment Definitions

Confused by all the buzz words surounding your jeans? Want to know what to look for? Want to impress your friends with your denim triva?

Let us know which ones we forgot.

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Acid wash - A light finish achieved by manufacturers' use of chlorine-soaked pumice stones to bring white highlights to denim.

Clean/Raw - Indigo denim jeans that retain their like new appearance even after many washings. Untreated.

Creased - A finish that produces a white line down the front of the jeans, giving the appearance that they have been repeatedly ironed.

Dirty Wash - A jeans finish created by a dyeing process that produces the effect of staining or spilling.

Distressed - A finish done to the areas of the jeans most commonly "worn in" from wear like bottom hems, back and front pockets, fly.

Frayed - A finish that is developed from sanding the waistband and the hems of the jeans.

Indigo - The deep blue color of traditional jeans.

Overdyed - A second dying process performed after the jeans have been sewn, making the sewing thread the same color as the jeans.

Pre-Ripped - Jeans that have rips or tears but that are not repaired prior to sale.

Sandwash - A finish often used in conjunction with stonewash to produce area-specific wear, usually on the fronts of the thighs or the seat of the jeans.

Stonewash - A medium finish mimicking wear that is achieved by manufacturers' use of pumice stones, enzymes, and sand.

Tint - Jeans that have undergone a second dye process, often using a yellow khaki color, to give them a vintage appearance.

Whiskers - A jeans finish that produces white lines that look like wrinkles near the crotch and sometimes behind the knees.

Tear and Repair - A jeans finish that involves using a tool to create holes in jeans and then sewing the holes closed.

Denim is Not Slowing Down Despite Economy

From Denimology UK...

There is good news for denim retailers (and denim websites!) as it appears that jeans areproving to be immune to the credit crunch at the moment. Market research carried out by NPD Group found that sales of women's jeans were up nearly 5% over the last 12 months to a total of $7.77 billion. According to NPD Group retail analyst Marshal Cohen "the denim business is still one of the few shining stars in a tough economy." MSN has covered the same story and has video interviews with the Fashion Director at Bloomingdales.

Art Fair Coming in July!

July 16-19 brings the biggest event of the summer- the South U Art Fair!!!

We are thrilled to be a part of such an exciting event. Our shop will be open earrrrrrrrrrly and close laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaate (detailed hours and store events will be posted soon).

We have some of the CUTEST designers around the country participating in our "Make Art Not War" event at the store. Trendy tops, summer tees, back-to-school totes, dainty silver necklaces, funky chunky bracelets, rocker leather cuffs, eco-friendly organic tees and so much more!

We will also have an exhibit of local photographer Jaclyn Hancock. She will be showcasing her prints, so be sure to check that out.

We, of course, will still have great designer jeans for some killer prices.

Mark it in your calendar!!!

Inspiration to do Squats

Ok, how cute is Jessica Beal's booty in these William Rast jeans (her bf Justin's brand)?!?! This is great inspiration to do some squats and lunges. Booty is IN!!!

The Store's Very Pink, But We're Also GREEN!!

As the summer heat has been coming on strong these last few weeks, it's definitely gotten us thinking more about global warming (especially during those two days our air conditioning was on the fritz!) While we aim to be a very customer friendly business, we're also focused on being environmentally friendly. Here are some of the ways we're doing our part:

1. Recycling
Paper, plastic, glass, and cans - everything we accumulate we separate and dispose of in the proper city containers. Remember those 3 R's - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!

2. Limiting Electricity Consumption
We make sure all the lights are off when they're not being used. And when they are, we use low wattage light bulbs!

3. Reducing Paper Waste
Company communications are done via email as much as possible to prevent paper waste. Additionally, we only use recyled paper and, whenever possible, we print multiple items on a page such as flyers, order forms, and advertisements.

4. Carrying Products with a Conscience
All of our tops and accessories are handmade products by independent designers. Not only are we helping to boost the designers' careers, we are also protecting the environment by not selling mass produced items made in pollution-creating factories. We're always looking to take in new product lines and our current search is focusing on designs that use organic or recycled materials!

5. No Polluting While Commuting
Finally, we use environmentally friendly means of getting to work. Most of us walk or ride bikes, and for those that live slightly farther away, carpooling is the way to go!

So we all know Party in Our Pants is a very pink store...
And our Ann Arbor location encourages us to chant Go Blue!...
BUT, we know it's our corporate social responsibility and our duty as citizens of the Earth to do our part and go GREEN -- and we hope you do too!

Fanny Pack Friday

I have always made it public knowledge my distaste for "fanny packs". They remind me of theme parks, out of date fashions, the idea that versitility should trump appearance. I had an old bf who said it looks like a pregnant belt. I am horrified to see this 80s trend reappearing. I mean, don't get me wrong, back in the 80s I ROCKED my fanny pack. I had a neon orange one, no less.

However, this is 2008 and it's not a trend I want to revisit. So as a little joke, the girls showed up Friday all wearing fanny packs, claiming it was going to be "Fanny Pack Friday" at the store from now on.

Ha ha funny funny, ladies! I appreciate the gesture. Let's keep the store a "fanny pack" free zone from now on. Please???

Chelsie, Courtney and Becky modeling the latest fanny packs

Please Help Support Our Friend

Bruno, a friend of the store, is doing the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Race this Saturday. Please check out the link and donate if you can!

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RelayForLifeGreatLakesDivision?px=7165865&pg=personal&fr_id=4553&et=9wCK0flrsj05i2XaXhLRlw..&s_tafId=229039

PIOP Had the Best. Week. Ever.

It's been a very eventful and exciting week here at Party in Our Pants!!

We finally finished painting everything, put the finishing touches on our countertop mosaic masterpieces, drilled in the stripper pole, and even got lovely new carpeting that definitely matches the pink color scheme! Here are some great pictures that show how much fun we had completing the store:




We also had a fabulous extravaganza in honor of Sandi's birthday!!

Sprite got decked out in the latest doggy denim trends to celebrate his mama's bday...



Xander and Patti, two hilarious interns, showcased their stripperific skills...as did Danny, a very enthusiastic party guest! The birthday girl definitely loved it!





We also implemented some fun, creative marketing ideas around Ann Arbor.

First, we walked around in some of the more unique leather items by Marty Flint, which DEFINITELY brought PIOP some attention!




We also chalked the Diag and the sidewalk outside the store entrance so people knew they could "Get in Our Pants!"






Finally, the highlight of the week was definitely Wednesday's Hump Day Happy Hour!! We had a lot of fun visitors and we sold a bunch of t-shirts, jewelry, and designer jeans! Our first event was an absolute success! I can't wait for next Wednesday and all of the other events we have planned...so stay tuned!

And with that, here's one more visual of the PIOP interns enjoying the party! What's Hump Day without a 3 foot blow up penis ring toss game?? In this picture we've got me rocking out, Xander on penis guitar, Chelsie being shy, and Becky having a good time! :)



Until next time....Party on!

XOXO Courtney

Hump Day's (Almost) Here!!

Here's a reminder to stop by 1103 S. University (right above Espresso Royale) from 5-8pm tomorrow!! We'll have special denim deals, Sex on the Beach cocktails (for those lovely ladies over 21), and lots of fun activities! It's our first Hump Day happy hour event and, trust us, you won't want to miss it! So get your beauty rest tonight and we'll see you tomorrow at Party in Our Pants!

Get Ready for HUMP DAY Happy Hour!!

I’m super excited for our very first HUMP DAY Happy Hour this coming Wednesday, June 4th! It’ll be a great way to spend time with our customers and have a little mid-week fun.

Come check out the latest styles in designer jeans and fabulous accessories you can’t find anywhere else! Take advantage of special deals, wind down with delicious cocktails, and if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can try your moves on the stripper pole! Who can resist such a fun night like this?

So get over those mid-week blues and bring all your girlfriends to 1103 S. University (above Espresso Royale) from 5-8pm! It’s a guaranteed good time!

Mad Props for Courtney!

On her first post (after her mini-SEO lesson), Courtney got her blog post listed in Google alerts! Pretty impressive for your first try. In case you're curious, the post was "We're Watching You". Way to go. Keep an eye out for more Google-worthy posts from PIOP.

Meet Patti!

Meet PATTI, one of newest interns. She'll be helping us with the buying for the store, new vendors and events. More about our blonde Natalie Portman look-alike...

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Hello denim fanatics!

Here come the beautiful sunny days of Michigan, and along with them: hot new denim for all of you junkies. Stop by PIOP to see me working the pole (yes, we have one) in a pair of Brown label jeans. Haven’t heard of my new favorite yet? Check out the back pockets on these puppies and you won’t forget them! You’ll also see me strutting my stuff in light washes for those hot summer days.

As for an old favorite, I’m a fan of the antiqued rivets and fat seams of Stitch’s denim. Moccasins have never been paired so well!

I am currently hunting relentlessly for the perfect pair of cut-off shorts reminiscent of Kate Moss as well as a pair of True Religion Micky jeans (they’ve been retired!) with the amazingly boyish long back pockets. It’s just as important to look good from the front as from behind!

I also dig big leather handbags, simple gold jewelry, and basic tanks and tees. My trouble this season will be trading my flats for sandals.

I have just finished my junior year at the University of Michigan where I study sociology. I obviously have mixed interests; social research and fashion clash like seafood and dairy or socks and sandals-but I can make it work! I love eating raspberries and chocolate ice cream, swerving at people on my bike, bar hopping, volunteering, and scouring the internet for good deals on clothes and shoes.

I’ll be kicking back all summer in Ann Arbor so look for me on the Diag in the cutest styles of jeans from PIOP!

Meet Chelsie!

I'm excited to announce we have added some fantastic new team members!

Read more about Chelsie, our main woman. She is helping us with copywriting, national events, and in-store events.

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CHELSIE:

Hello darlings!

Here comes a lil’ bio about myself: my name is Chelsie, and I am currently finishing off my junior year at the good ole University of Michigan. Though I am going to be graduating with my undergrad in English, my passion will be carrying me out to California upon graduation to pursue art. I, as of now, hope to study fashion design, marketing, or photography, perhaps a combination of the three. I am from Muskegon, yep, the Westside of Michigan and have grown up just a 5 minute drive from the beautiful Lake Michigan. Thus, I love the beach and being outside!

Alright, enough about my background; let’s talk fashion! My absolute favorite designer: Marc Jacobs (if only my bank account could agree). Not only is Marc the most eccentric dude ever, but his fashions represent everything I am: innovation mixed with a classic elegance, a play on pattern and color, and the nostalgia of the past. And as for denim, my favorites currently reside in Seven for All Mankind, Citizens of Humanity, and Antik (though after seeing the various labels in the store, I expect this to be changing).

Current styles: I love the look of a straight leg pant and a slightly over-sized blouse. I absolutely adore tucking in the shirt and polishing it off with a simple belt. As for high-waisted-ness, I am still debating. Right now I am currently digging a very light wash and even acid wash…a trip back in time. But of course, I can never give up the classic look of good deep-washed denim. I LOVE Shoes- I love a stacked wedge, anything patent, and gold! And to top off every look, one must be carrying an oversized, quality leather bag (preferably in warm brown leather that is suitable for spring).

Alright lovelies, that’s all you get from me for now. Though I can assure you, there will be more to come. Afterall, I may have a new love by tomorrow.

With Sunshine,

Chelsie

We're Watching You...

What’s the best way to learn about our target customers? Look at what they’re wearing and talk to them! We’ve been doing a lot of market research out in the field to see what brands the girls in Ann Arbor are wearing and their denim likes and dislikes. It’s great being able to talk to the girls and get their insights on denim trends!

It’s also a fun way just to see what’s working (and what isn’t!) We’ve seen some great looks with skinny jeans, bootcuts, and wide legs. The girls are loving jeans by True Religion, Paige, Hudson, and Genetic -- which is great because we have them all!

We’re going to start giving out prizes to girls with the perfect jeans on – the fit, the wash, how they tie together her whole look. It’s going to be so much fun – who wouldn’t want to get complimented on their outfit while walking across campus and, better yet, receive a reward for it?? So Ann Arbor girls, put on your best denim and strut your stuff around town because we’re on the lookout!

The Perfect Spring Outfit- Jeans & T

Hey trendy girls, Check out some of our new stuff...buy the whole outfit at our retail or online store!

Our awesome model Hannah is wearing: Oliva Bootcuts by Chip & Pepper ($130), Natural Leather Cuff by Marty Flint ($65), Teardrop Necklace by Verre ($38), Pink Lotus Burnout T by Hinix ($35), Spring Tote by I Heart Buttertart ($45). Photography by Jaclyn Hancock.

ooohhh ohhhh almost there!!!

After months of slaving away up here, our pretty pink store is ALMOST open. Our pink zebra bar with the purple tile top is almost done. Our stripper pole is up (stop by for a spin). Our mirror mosaic counter is ALMOST done. Our rad runway is ready for you to work it. Our funky dressing room contains one of the most fun walls you've ever seen. Come sign our graphitti brick wall (PINK no less!).

We have killer designs from indie fashion designers all over the country (many designs exclusive to PIOP- woot!), we have some super cute totes, trendy jewelry, edgy leather cuffs, and the cutest t-shirt corsettes you've ever seen (a MUST for any U-M fan). More pics from our last photoshoot to come!!!

We will be having our previews this week and next, so drop us a line if you want to stop by for happy hour and shopping. ;)

Luv Sandi

True Religion Stock is UP!

True Religion shares rise following analyst's upgrade
Associated Press 04.24.08, 12:10 PM ET

NEW YORK - Shares of True Religion Apparel Inc. rose on Thursday after an analyst said denim is one of the standouts amid weak apparel trends and upgraded the jeansmaker's stock.

True Religion's shares are down about 17 percent over the past two weeks but nothing fundamentally has changed, said Morgan Keegan analyst Brad Stephens.

"Retailers are still saying that denim's bucking the trend and we believe True Religion is one of a handful of winners," Stephens wrote in a client note Thursday.

While investors could be worrying about the fact that the company has until Wednesday to report fourth-quarter earnings or face delisting, as well as other factors, there is no material weakness that caused the stock to drop, Stephens said.

He expects the company to detail some "moving parts" in the first quarter when it reports on Tuesday, including a management compensation expense, which could lead to a "relief rally" in the shares.

Shares rose 94 cents, or 5.9 percent, to $16.85 during midday trading. The stock has traded between $13.89 and $23.74 during the past 52 weeks.

My New Crush- Brown Label Jeans

I will admit it, I get a little obsessive sometimes...but don't we all?

My latest craze is over the recently discovered Brown Label jeans. OMG how fricking cute are those back pockets? The denim feels like butter, too...you just have to pick up your own pair at our store!

* Leather cuff by Marty Flint.

Modeled by our darling intern, Chelsie (who is also in love with Brown Label).

FAKE Jeans @ Sorority Party In Ann Arbor

One more reason to buy from us...

I went to a sorority "jeans party" at Chi O this weekend. This is the SAME sorority we had done a jeans sale at like a month earlier. The bitch was selling the worst fake shit I've ever seen and trying to pass it on as real. Heads up, ladies. WE are the only company that sells the real deal, so be warned. We aren't fake, so why wear fake shit? That's for posers!!! So sad. The girls didn't even seem to be that bothered that the jeans were fake.

So, stay away from these fake crappy jeans. Not only is it illegal to sell fakes, it's SO shady. And guess what- you AREN'T FOOLING ANYONE with your fake jeans!

Pass it on!

More KICKASS Vendors Selling @ Our Store...Pantyline Production

We have totally lucked out and found some awsome designers so I am excited to offer the fashionistas of Michigan the following scanties from PantyLine Productions.

Based in beautiful Lake Tahoe, Jen hand screens cheeky (pun inteded) panties with sassy sayings and daring designs. Not satisfied with just making the world a better place with cuter undies, Jen donates "20% of each sale to Dolphin, an organization that provides free anti-violence and HIV/AIDS education to young girls and boys in Kenya." How rad is that?!

Pick up your pair at our new store.

Marty Flint Designs in Our Store

Girls- Come get your punky girly choker with a real pad lock! Selling in our Ann Arbor store for $35. Sold in three lengths from choker to mid length for a customizable look. Wear two (like our models) for an extra hot effect!!!

Email us to buy your very own!

Q&A w/ 7famk Creative Director

I found this great article on Denimology.
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Interview w/Larissa Noble, Creative Director at the brand that really kickstarted the whole premium denim industry - 7 For All Mankind.


1. Why do you think after 200 years jeans are still one of the most popular items of clothing?

One of the greatest thing about working in the world of denim is its rich history. The history of denim spans three centuries, touching every social and economic class and countless cultures. Denim can go any place you want it to go and will continue to in the future. From work wear to couture and everything in between – it has no limits. I think denim will always remain at the forefront of fashion. What other item of clothing can be worn by so many different types of people in so many different ways?


2. Last time I counted there were over 50 brands of premium denim jeans, what makes your jeans stand out from the rest?

Denim consumers are becoming more discerning in their taste for denim. The premium denim market went through a phase where it became super-saturated with a number of new, niche brands and the premium denim consumer was overwhelmed with all of the choices at their fingertips. After experimenting with these niche brands, consumers are returning to brands that have remained steadfast in the quality of fit, fabrics and finishes. That’s why 7 For All Mankind continues to show tremendous growth – customers are staying with the brand they trust. This return to the classic brands illustrates that consumers are more concerned with quality than price.


3. Who do you imagine is a typical customer?

Our customers are fashion innovators, those who take risks and set the trends. They enjoy being stylish and have their finger on the pulse of fashion.


4. Where do you get your inspiration from?

Inspiration can be found through so many different avenues. I personally find traveling the most exhilarating, seeing how the every day person is wearing their denim around the world is most fascinating to me. Fashion starts on the streets.


5. Are there any essential jeans that everyone should have in their wardrobe?

Everyone should own a dark denim wash such as 7 For All Mankind’s Mercer and a beaten up wash such as 7 For All Mankind’s Nakita (see above). This will enable the consumer to have a jean for day and a dressier pair for night.


6. What are the first pair of jeans you remember?

The first pair of jeans I owned were 80’s inspired. They were army green skinny cropped jeans with side zippers.


7. What have been your favorite pair of jeans that you have owned?

My personal favorite pair of jeans are the 7 For All Mankind Roxanne jeans in Mercer. They are skinny jeans in a dark denim wash and are perfect for any occasion.


8. What have been your favorite pair of jeans that you have produced?

I produced the Roxanne skinny jean in grey denim with a zebra print, these were my ultimate favorite. They were unique and fashion forward. When you are around denim all day you have to come up with innovative washes, fits, and pockets, to keep yourself and the customer excited.


9. How many pairs of jeans do you currently own and which are your favorites?

There are definitely too many pairs of jeans in my closet to even begin counting! I would have no idea where to begin.


10. Are you a "wash your jeans after each wear" person or a "wear your jeans for six months before you wash them" person?

A true jeaner never washes their jeans. I am not that extreme, I wash my jeans about every three months.


11. Do you own jeans for different occasions (for instance I have work jeans, smart jeans, weekend jeans, holiday jeans, jeans for going to concerts in, jeans for gardening in) if so what have you got?

I definitely own jeans for every occasion, all I wear are jeans. I don’t categorize my jeans; I will wear any of them for any outing depending on my mood.


12. Which is your favorite jeans shop?

My favorite denim store is 7 For All Mankind’s new store in Los Angeles on Robertson Blvd. It is elegant, sophisticated, and portrays a denim lifestyle.


13. Which celebs are currently wearing your jeans?

I think the name of our brand 7 For All Mankind truly describes the target consumer which is "All Mankind". Everyone celebrity from age 15 to 40 wears our jeans. Some examples are Rachel Bilson (see above), Blake Lively, Mandy Moore, Cate Blanchett, Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Garner, Ben Affleck, Adrian Grenier, Jake Gyllenhaal, etc……. The list goes on and on. We pride ourselves on the numerous amounts of celebrities that have appeared in our jeans and publicized our brand long before we advertised in magazines.


14. How important big an effect does it have on your sales when a celeb is seen wearing a pair of your jeans?

The effect of an A list celebrity wearing our jeans is tremendous. Celebrities are seen as cultural icons, and many people look to them for style inspiration. While it’s true that a celebrity endorsement can often get a customer into a pair of 7 For All Mankind jeans, it’s our incredible fits, wash techniques and details that keep them coming back for more.


15. Who is your current favorite denim icon (male & female). I am thinking the person who has the most denim style?

My favorite denim icon is Charlotte Gainsborough. She is so mysterious in the way she wears her jeans, you are never quit sure if they are vintage or new. The way she accessories them and puts herself together is very inspiring to me.


16. Which person living or dead would you most like to see in a pair of your jeans?

I would love to see James Dean in our Dylan Jean.


17. If jeans had not been invented, what would we all be wearing?

We would all be wearing Khakis and Spandex, thank goodness denim was invented.


18. And finally, any predictions for denim in 2008

My predications for 2008 are that we are going to see a lot of vintage inspired washes and Bell Bottoms.