How to Buy Jeans

Finding the Best Pair for Your Body

Jeans are a staple in the wardrobe of almost every American.  Face it, we live in jeans because of their comfort and versatility.  Despite our love for jeans, many women will agree that it’s the hardest piece of clothing to shop for, and the fit is crucial.  Here are a few tips I’ve picked up over the years for choosing  the perfect denim, and making jean buying a lot less stressful.

Trends in jean styles may come and go; for instance, jeans with tapered hems are popular now, you probably know them as “skinny jeans”.  They may be the hot silhouette of the moment, but truth is they hardly flatter most figures.  Flared and boot cut jeans are still in style and easy to find, so sticking to those is the best bet.  The extra width at the hem of jeans accentuates your curves without drawing too much attention to the width of your hips.  Besides the hem, the rise of the jeans make a significant impact on the look of your stomach.  So, maybe your tummy isn’t exactly a six pack, there’s nothing wrong with that.  However, it’s important to know that low rise jeans will only create a visible bulge beneath your clothing, and jeans with a high rise will emphasize the size of your stomach.  In other words, look jeans that fall somewhere in the middle; right underneath the belly button is perfect because the waist band works like a control top.

A common misconception  among many jeans shoppers is that stretch is works for everyone. Not exactly true.  Jeans with 1% or 2% spandex are great for added comfort and a body conscious fit, but they don’t exactly shape your body.  Jeans without stretch suck you in, and sort of mold your shape to a certain extent, making them the ideal choice for curvier women.  Also, the wash can do a lot to contour your shape.  Dark washes always make the wearer appear thinner.  Jeans with cross hatching, and a slight fade down the center create the illusion of slim, shapely curves.