Finding the Right Jeans

Let’s face it, jeans prices have gone a little out of control in the last few years and sometimes it seems like new jean brands are popping and exploding into the market so frequently that you may feel a little lost and overwhelmed.

But is it worth paying the high price tag?

Yes . . . and no. (so simple, right?)

Yes, because a lot of the new denim companies are popping up out of necessity to cater to all body types and fit. As we recognize and celebrate our differences, jean companies are following suit. It’s not just about having a slim, straight or relaxed fit. Women have curves and come in all shapes and sizes and we all need to find the right fit and comfort.

It is imperative that one finds their perfect fit. Why? Because this is the one item in your closet that can multiply the versatility of your wardrobe and have you looking so great and ready for ALMOST any occasion.

Jeans can be worn just about anywhere. It’s really about what you pair them with. Dress them up with heels and a fabulous top or wear them with your favorite boots or sneakers. They truly run the gamut.

So yes, sometimes it’s worth paying the high price. When considering the price per wear, hundreds of dollars equate to pennies per wear.

And no, because if you don’t have that money to invest, you should never have to go into debt and you need to find a better budget-friendly option.

Here are some things to look for when trying on jeans:

1. A positive non-judgemental salesperson or none -- You don’t need any negativity in your pursuit of greatness.
2. Where does the waistband sit on you? Is it a good placement for YOUR body.
3. Are you comfortable? Do you feel good in them?

I’ve put a list of some of my favorite jean brands from high to low prices, but do make the time to go and try as many as possible. The time invested will pay off in a big way no matter what your budget may be.

7 For All Mankind
A.G.
DL1961
Express Jeans
Gap
Joe’s Jeans
Levi’s
LUCKY BRAND
MAVI
Mother Denim
Paige Denim
True Religion

Long Torso -- You probably want to go for the higher rise in your jeans. Not only will it look incredibly flattering, but will also eliminate having every top you wear look as if it’s been cropped.

Short Torso -- head for low to mid-rise to help elongate your torso a little, but keep in mind to have it a little below your waist and in a comfortable spot. Paige, Joe’s Jeans.

Plus Size and Curvy figures -- head for the contoured waistbands. Levi’s, True Religion, Lucky Brand, Paige Denim have some great styles with great stretch fabrics that will flatter while keeping you super comfortable.

Petite figures -- Go for elongating the legs without being overpowered. Citizens of Humanity, Paige, Gap and Loft make petite sizing.

Tall figures -- Sometimes it’s hard to find the right brands that have the longer inseams since most come with an average of 32”. But jeans companies like Frame, Gap and Madewell can go up to anywhere from 34” to 36” inseams which are perfect for the longer legged creatures.

Fit tips

Size -- Don’t go by the size label but by what fits. Three different sizes from three different brands can have the same measurements. Also, take into consideration that ALL jeans loosen up as the day progresses. If the jeans are a little loose to start with, go down a size. Waistband should be a little tight. If you can easily fit your whole hand, then they’re way too loose. If one or no fingers, then they’re too tight. If you can fit only 2 fingers -- JACKPOT. Of course, all these rules fly out the window if they’re white jeans -- in that case, you have to size up and turn the pockets into faux pockets as well as replace the pocket lining with nude fabric. Other than that, it’s simple. :D

Rise -- Figure out the most flattering rise for you. Is it low, medium, or high? Low waist? Stay away for high rise. Long waisted? High rise may be the answer.

Fading -- Watch where the fading is. Fading can highlight certain areas and can look very flattering if done right. Look for ones that don’t look contrived but more like natural fading of wear and tear. These will always look best no matter what the current trend dictates.

Stretch -- Buying with stretch is great. You’ll discover everything from memory stretch to 360 degree compression stretch. The key to this is how comfortable you are and the overall fit.

So you found the perfect pair -- now what? You need to take care of them of course.

1. Wash as little as possible
2. Air dry -- if they have any stretch in them -- while they may feel stiff initially, they’ll soften within the hour. The heat kills elastic and the jeans will end up gaping without recovery -- sometimes in the worst places like a mock sagging butt or knee depending where the spandex gave out.
   
   

I hope this helps, but let me know if you have any questions or anything to add. I’d love to hear from you.

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