I like the red tones. the new colour makes your beard more noticable.
Good luck with the finances! I know it is costly to get into a new place, especially when everyone wants a deposit!
With that type of tear there must have been som fault in the fabric! If the shop won't exchange them you could also try contacting the manufacturer about it. Make sure to let them know you were so embarassed when it happened! That those faulty jeans cause you. This was the first wearing and they are unwashed correct?