Let's face it, not every pair of jeans fits every body! With tons of choices, numerous styles and endless brands out there, it can be a chore to find the perfect pair of jeans. Besides, that not every body shape will fit every pair of jeans. Having a bit of information before you step out the door to shop can help make your experience much brighter!
The first thing to keep in mind when shopping for jeans is to realize you will have to try on an exorbitant amount of clothing. Typically you won't walk into a store and find the perfect pair on the first shot, unless you are having an extremely "lucky" day! It is a marathon not a sprint, so if you don't find what you are looking for on the first try, try again.
Shop for fit not brand or label. They key is to find a pair of jeans that will flatter your body best, not to have the latest, greatest, most popular pair of jeans on the market. What do you want, to look great or to have on a great pair of jeans that don't look so good on you?
One fashion don't you will want to steer clear of is "MOM jeans". These are jeans that are high-waisted, light-washed, taper-legged that will not only make you look outdated but will make your behind look gi-normous!
Choosing the right color of denim is also important. Today the trend is colorful and bright, but if you are talking the traditional blue-jean, decide whether you want dark wash or light wash. As a Stylist, I recommend for body shapes that are curvy, heavy or pear shaped to opt for the darker wash jeans. The darker color will help to camouflage the lower half of your body.
The distressed look is a fashion statement. However, make sure the statement you are making doesn't say "undressed". A small amount of distress is ok, but buying a pair of jeans that has tears and rips all over it doesn't make the right fashion statement.
DON'T:
DO:
The next step in shopping for jeans is to know your body shape. Below is a guide to help. Find your particular body shape then begin to familiarize yourself with the type of jean that will best flatter your shape.
CURVY: This is the hourglass figure. You are evenly proportioned on top and bottom with a smaller, defined waistline.
- classic flat front straight-leg that sit on your natural waist/mid-rise
- if you are tall, try pants with a slight flare
- if you are heavy, try pants with a slight taper
- no cuffs or very tapered styles
PEAR: Larger on bottom than on top.
- well tailored, flat front with wider legs
- slight flare
- the waistband should be no more than one inch wide
- perfect fit
- slightly lower rise
- darker colors
- slight boot cut jeans
- no side pockets (or have them sewn)
- avoid back pockets or any back details, wide legs, bell bottoms and all tapered, high waisted or low slung styles
- avoid tight legs or hems
BOYISH: Straight body with no defined waistline.
- man tailored, flat front, straight from waist to hem
- slight flare at the hem
- tapered skinny jeans
- lower or mid-rise
- boy cut jeans, low cut & straight leg
PETITE: 5'3" or shorter
- straight leg with front creases
- longer length to floor
- match tops to bottoms for longest look
- avoid cuffs & wide legs
- natural waist
- flared jeans
- skinny jeans
TUMMY: This is not an apple, but rather your middle extends a bit out front.
- flat front, straight leg without pockets
- loose fit at the waist
- avoid belts in contrasting color, high waisted styles, pleats and patch pockets
- styles that sit slightly lower than the natural waist
TALL: 5'10" or taller
- long and lean straight leg
- flared 70's inspired jeans
- boot-cut jeans
- skinny jeans
PLUS SIZE or APPLE:
- darker wash jeans
- straight leg
- trouser
- slight flare
FLAT BEHIND:
- tight, lean-cut style
- pockets, back yokes and stitching
- stretch
- avoid overly baggy styles
- slim legs
- wear with heels to make you appear curvier
- avoid stiff denim, loose fit and boy cut jeans
Remember, shopping for jeans is a marathon not a sprint, so if you don't succeed the first time out, try, try again!
Happy shopping!
~Wendy Anguiano
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