I kind of dig this jean jacket by Coal Black. The distressed grey denim produces agreeable tones that can be worn with many different styles. I also find the contrast throughout the jacket neither offensive nor overly flashy.

One issue I do have, is with the level of distress found in various parts of this coat. Although I’m comfortable with moderate distressing in denim pants – especially if self-inflicted, as when denim connoisseurs purchase raw selvedge for just this purpose – I don’t feel quite so comfortable purchasing a heavily distressed jacket.

And it’s not like this coat by Coal Black is particularly distressed when seen in its entirety, it’s just that various parts of the garment have been worn down to where large holes will soon appear after a little wash and wear. I find this to be a bit alarming, as I like denim outerwear for both its look and utility.

This nitpicking of mine brings up the question of how much distressing is enough? Local fashion markets seem to differ on what they consider an acceptable amount with Japanese trends often leaning towards the shredded toilet paper look.

Perhaps I’m getting old, but I like my denim to be subtly accented by contrast and textures without having these features steal the entire show. So what are your limits when it comes to the distressed look?