A-list proof that corduroy is the new denim

From patchwork to acid-wash to oversized jackets, we know denim as the evolving fabric that’s remained a staple across closets and fashion lines. But, if you haven't already, it might be time to put down the jeans and embrace the runway comeback of corduroy.

If you’re loyal to denim, you may be wondering why you would ever swap your favorite high-waisted pair for the retro fabric that’s often associated with The Brady Brunch and kitschy ’70s suits. But corduroy’s origins date back to B.C. Egypt - it was especially popular among 18th century British and French royalty.

Cord has managed to slip back into wardrobes over the decades, from ’90s jumpers to early aughts flare-pants, and now designers are loving the soft and comfortable trend.

Emilia Wickstead matched high-waisted corduroy pants with sweaters for her 2018 Fall/Winter line inspired by ’70s movie Love Story, while Nina Ricci used grey corduroy for trenches and jackets for its tailored and polished 2018 Fall fashion.

Prada turned heads in Milan for the high-fashion menswear take on dusky brown overcoats and suits, and Tory Burch displayed an icy grey corduroy jacket during the floral 2018 runway show. The collaborative brand Public School utilized corduroy for their Americana street-inspired line that celebrated New York politics and called out fashion’s lack of diversity.

Now celebrities are getting on board. Early adopters of corduroy have been model Bella Hadid, who plumped for black 'cocktail corduroy' flares with a cut-off top during a night out at Paris Fashion Week in March. Her friend Kendall Jenner also wore a utilitarian corduroy ensemble to walk in the Marc Jacobs NYFW show. More recently, Bradley Cooper (a longtime fan of corduroy - he wore a green Thom Sweeney suit to the GQ awards back in 2015) swapped black for a bit of midnight blue cord on the red carpet promoting A Star Is Born.

Olivia Wilde might have done the Jimmy Kimmel Show in a full 1970s brown corduroy suit - double breasted for extra fashion points - but if you're not feeling brave enough to wear cord head-to-toe you can always take cues from Jaime King, who teamed her brown turn-up corduroy flares with white knitwear.

Brit star Eddie Redmayne has also shown how men can do corduroy the casual way by pairing a brown sheepskin cord bomber jacket with slim cut navy trousers.

For more A-list looks and inspiration from the catwalk, check out our gallery above.