Finding the perfect pair of jeans is every woman's struggle--unless they've mastered the art of jeans judgment. If you follow my buying tips below, I'm confident you'll happily be flaunting a more flattering fit in no time.
- Determine your body type.
Is your butt flat? Do you have a bubble butt? Do you have loose tummy fat? Or are you a classic hourglass, with tiny waist and big hips? Figuring out the area you deem --utterly unattractive-- helps you find a jean that not only looks good, but makes you feel good too.
Straight, --boy-shape-- figures: Try a straight or skinny cut jean. Play around with pockets--you're the only body type who can pull off denim trousers.
Curvy figures: Try Citizens for Humanity or Rock and Republics. Both brands tend to run in a boot-cut flare, which helps to balance curvy shapes. True Religions or Sevens Jeans may work as well, but be sure styles are boot-cut because the flare shape will help elongate legs.
Hourglass figures: Finally for those trying to fit a little waist with bigger hips, try Sevens Jeans' daughter line, Paige Denim. This cut has a higher rise, which will fit around your waist and still suitably fit your hips
Manly figures: Try Levi's or Seven Jeans if you're a guy with smaller thighs, or if you simply like jeans with a tighter fit. If you've got some junk in your trunk, stay away from the previous brands and try a pair of G-Star or Diesels Jeans instead. If you're seeking something with a pop of color, try some Rock and Republics or True Religions. Both will flatter figures while tastefully playing around with the standard inseam color stitching.
- Determine the purpose you want your new jeans to serve.
Are you looking for daytime jeans, or intending to find a pair that can be worn when going out? Or are you strictly in the market for a pair of comfortable, errand-running jeans?
By determining the type of jean you need, you'll have an easier time figuring out the way your new jeans should fit. When testing, try sitting and squatting down to decide if the jeans are more practical as --sitting-- or --standing-- jeans.
- Pocket placement
It's funny that something as small as pocket placement can make all the difference in a pair of jeans, but it is vital. As a general rule of thumb, you want your pockets to be proportionate to the size of your butt: not too big, not too small.
For a smaller butt, watch out for large pockets that hide your behind. Those with larger butts should be cautious of small pockets, as they emphasize the part you're trying to conceal. Whether you have a small or large derriere, your best bet keeping the pocket-butt size ratio even and well-spaced.
If you have a flat butt, make sure the pockets aren't too high, as they tend to make the butt look long and saggy. But if you have a bubble butt, the higher pocket will work in your favor.
- Coloring is key.
Don't get me wrong; a bit of shading is important. However, too much can look bad, or even add the illusion of extra pounds. Heavy whiskering on big hips is never a good look!
I favor dark denim because it looks fashionable both day and night. Although light jeans can be worn at night, typically they tend to appear more casual. Darker washes can be dressed up and tend to be more flattering versus light-colored washes.
- Ask for help!
My final but perhaps most important tip: don't be afraid of one-on-one support. Go somewhere that has good, honest, professional help, and a wide selection of jeans for you to try.
Go Clothing in La Jolla or Let's Go denim boutique in Mission Valley's Fashion Valley Mall each carry a great selection of standing/going out jeans. If you're seeking daytime denim, try visiting UTC's or Fashion Valley's Nordstrom, where both men and women can find brands like Seven Jeans, Paige Denim, Citizens of Humanity and Levi's. For those craving a universal day/nighttime style, try the Jeanery in Fashion Valley Mall for men, or Denim Bar in Del Mar for women. Both feature Rock and Republics, 702's, Paige Denim, and Chip and Pepper Jeans.
Email Jessie Mandel at Press@DiscoverSD.com, with the subject line: Ask Jessie.
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