Jeans will never go out of style. Each season, the classic skinny, bootleg, flare and, more recently, boyfriend jeans return, but in a revamped form to match the current trends. This fall, knee-slit jeans are making a statement.

The knee-slit trend is most popularly produced on skinny jeans. Colors vary from blues to blacks to acid washes, and the size of the knee-slit ranges depending on the look the designer is going for. While some of the jeans display more distressed slits that are wide, uneven and frayed, others exhibit a subtle take on the trend with a clean, straight cut.

Knee-slit jeans are slashing the stigma of the casual, distressed jeans of the past. Even though they may still be placed into the distressed category, knee-slit denims give off a more sophisticated vibe, as they represent a mixture of the plain and distressed type, offering a greater opportunity for styling.

The more extreme version of the jeans, with prominent slits that expose your whole knee, favors the casual style but can still pair well with a basic tee and slip-on sneakers. This old trend has been transformed, however, into the more polished style with jeans that show a smaller and cleaner slit. A black blazer and pointed pumps match this style, creating a look for a night out or even a job interview.

Although fall has just begun, knee-slit jeans are already popping up all around campus. Consistently fashion-focused students, like LS freshman Carly Berns, were quick to take part in the trend and are sporting both casual and sophisticated styles.

“They are a more conservative take on last year’s completely damaged jean, keeping it trendy and comfortable,” Berns said. “What makes them so great is that they can be dressed up with a nice blouse or dressed down with a simple tee or flannel.”

While some may splurge on the pre-slit jeans from fashion stores, others must stick to a college budget and are forced to improvise. Luckily, this trend makes it easy, as you can take an old pair of skinny jeans and create your own slits, as subtle or distressed as you like.

Whether you decide to spend or save on the knee-slit trend, participating either way lets you flaunt your inner fashionista with one of the staples of the season.

A version of this article appeared in the Wednesday, Oct. 8 print edition. Email Caroline Ogulnick at [email protected].