Rachel Zegler has once again proven her status as a rising fashion icon. While promoting her latest project in London, the Hunger Games star turned heads outside the BBC Breakfast studios wearing an outfit that redefined casual cool.
Her look—straight from Coach’s collection—featured a black leather vest layered over a matching jacket, paired with light-wash denim skater jeans featuring frayed hems and subtle distressing. It’s a combination that blends 2000s nostalgia with modern polish, making the case that ripped jeans are officially stylish again.
A Classic Trend Reinvented
Distressed denim has long had a place in youth culture, from the anti-establishment edge of the 1970s to the grunge aesthetic of the 1990s. After a brief disappearance from mainstream fashion, it’s now making a confident comeback—this time with a designer twist.
Coach’s take on the trend focuses on relaxed silhouettes and authentic texture rather than exaggerated tears. The result feels lived-in but intentional, a nod to streetwear without losing sophistication. By pairing her jeans with sharp tailoring and leather accents, Zegler shows how ripped denim can shift from rebellious to refined.
Why Rachel Zegler’s Look Works
Several elements make this outfit stand out:
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Balance of textures: The softness of faded denim contrasts with structured leather for a dynamic, layered effect.
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Play on proportions: The wide-leg cut keeps the look fresh and modern, moving away from the skinny-jean era.
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Subtle details: Frayed hems and strategic distressing keep the jeans from feeling overly styled.
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High-low appeal: The mix of casual denim and elevated designer pieces makes the outfit wearable yet aspirational.
Zegler’s choice reflects a broader fashion shift—one where individuality and comfort take priority over rigid dress codes.
How to Recreate the Look
Want to channel this effortlessly cool energy? Here’s how to do it:
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Choose relaxed denim. Look for straight-leg or wide-leg cuts with light distressing rather than heavy rips.
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Add structure. Pair with a leather or tailored jacket to balance the slouchy silhouette.
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Keep it minimal. Stick to neutral tones and simple accessories to let the denim stand out.
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Opt for quality. The trend works best when fabrics feel substantial and well-made, not overly distressed.
Whether you’re heading to brunch or a casual night out, this combo delivers instant attitude without trying too hard.
The Takeaway
Rachel Zegler’s London appearance proves that ripped jeans aren’t just a throwback—they’re a statement. When styled with intention, they can move seamlessly from streetwear to high fashion. Coach’s skater-style denim captures that spirit perfectly: nostalgic, confident, and effortlessly cool.
As trends continue to recycle and evolve, this moment feels like a reminder that great style isn’t about reinventing the wheel—it’s about wearing the classics with a modern twist.
