Fashion spring fever is all about denim, as designers continue to reinvent the traditional Levi’s. With the help of funky details like rhinestone accents, sequined pockets and strategic ripping, jeans remain a must-have this season.

“They’re everywhere,” said Christine Bautista, a 22- year-old speech and communications senior. “Who doesn’t have a pair of jeans?”

Bautista has over 10 pairs of jeans but said her current favorite is a pair of Citizens of Humanity jeans. She said she loves how jeans never go out of style, and noticed how the same pair can be worn for a night out or for lounging at home.

This season’s trendiest jeans can be found in almost every popular clothing store. At the newly opened Forever 21 on Fifth and Market streets, pre-made rips and holes are making a comeback, having parents wondering once again what their kids are spending their money on.

This time around, however, the holes are feminine and strategically placed, a far cry from the nearly-shredded pairs favored by grunge superstars like Kurt Cobain in the ‘90s.

Rhinestones are a popular addition, but you won’t need to break out the cowboy hats and spurs. Urban clothing lines like Ecko and Rocawear have gave rhinestone studded jeans a flirtatious yet rugged edge, providing a subtle “bling” to one’s wardrobe.

This season you can obtain the hottest trend for little or no money at all. If you’re not willing to spend $80 on a pair of sparkly Baby Phat jeans, a Bedazzler and imagination goes a long way. Decorative patches, colorful ribbons, and textured trimmings can also be added to liven up a boring pair of jeans.

“I’m always fixing up my jeans,” said Nerissa Janger, 21. “It’s fun and cheap.”

Janger is finishing her third year at SF State, and said she is thinking of majoring in apparel design and merchandising. Although she’s into funky fashions, jeans remain a staple in her wardrobe.

Janger said she can dress them up with a sexy pair of stilettos and pearls or dress them down with a San Francisco Giants jersey and Nikes.

Some men are also jumping on the designer denim craze and are willing to spend more to stay on top of the latest trends.

“I think dudes are in a fashion renaissance of some sort,” said Mike Baker, 23. “We’re not metrosexuals but we understand fashion.”

The SF State cinema graduate works at the flagship Diesel store in Downtown San Francisco, where the cheapest pair of jeans run about $130. At Diesel the selection is endless. The Zathan brand jeans alone come in 29 different wash styles.

Now a student at San Francisco’s Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Baker said he notices more fashion labels catering to men’s denim. Among them are Evisu, Seven For All Mankind, and Akademiks, whose jeans are known for their eye-catching patterns and colorful patches.

The fabric denim originated in Europe in the 17th century and came to America in the late 18th century. Blue jeans made from denim became popular work pants during the California Gold Rush, but were replaced often because they were not sturdy enough for the hard labor. Then, Tailor Jacob Davis had the idea to put metal rivets on points of strain like the pockets to increase durability.

On May 20, 1873, Davis and businessman Levi Strauss patented the first pair of riveted blue jeans, creating a style that is now embraced all over the world.