Contrary to current belief, the skinny jean is far from fad: The tapered, drainpipe, cigarette, or peg leg has played a role in fashion history since the 50s.

James Dean, Marlon Brando, and Elvis wore their jeans straight; The Pink Ladies had them super tight in the 60s; and despite the flamboyant flares of the 70s the drainpipe re-emerged with the initial punk movement. In the 80s the tight leg appeared once again, with oversized jumpers and colourful leg warmers. It even continued into the boot-cut years of the 90s within the rock and roll scene. The Rolling Stones for one, never took them off.

Fast forward to today where, since the early noughties, the jeans have been a fixture on each season’s catwalks. You Tube is full of ‘how-to’ videos to DIY the skinny jean.

So let’s celebrate the skinny jean -  the ultimate in efficient leg coverage. What item could be more relevant in these post-bling times? Vote the skinny jean onto the Timeless 50 today.