These days jeans aren’t just for kicking around the house or doing dirty work. Designer jeans have become hugely popular, with versatile, edgy designs that can easily transition from daytime to evening. Paired with sexy heels, a beaded top, or even a worn set of sneakers, your jeans can make a bold fashion statement.

Understand the Cuts and Washes of Jeans

Jeans come in a number of distinct cuts and washes. Figure out which are right for you before selecting the perfect pair of jeans.

Low-rise jeans: Low-rise jeans sit low on the waist, providing the perfect opportunity to show off those abs.

Ultra-low-rise jeans: Ultra-low-rise jeans sit very low on the waist, for the ultimate low-rise look.

Boot-cut jeans: Loose through the leg and wide at the leg opening, boot-cut jeans have become a fall and winter wardrobe staple.

Flare leg jeans: Fun and funky flare leg jeans feature a wide, flared opening at the leg.

Stonewashed jeans: Stonewashed jeans have a lighter, more broken-in appearance.

Dark jeans: The deep indigo color of dark jeans make them the ideal jeans for a night out on the town.

Distressed jeans: Holes, shredding, and crinkles create the highly worn appearance of distressed jeans.

Select the Right Jeans for Your Body Type

When buying jeans, it’s all about the fit. To get the best fit, you’ll need to measure yourself correctly

Slim body types: Slimmer body types look great in a variety of jeans. Look for jeans that run straight from the hips through the knee, with a slight flare at the leg opening. Low-rise jeans with a high back and lower front are another good choice. Or, if you’re looking for a snug fit, choose jeans that are tight around the waist and backside.

Curvy body types: If you have great curves to accentuate, choose jeans that run straight from the hips through the knee with a slight or more generous flare at the leg opening. A wide boot-cut silhouette is also flattering.

Athletic body types: If you have athletic legs and narrow hips, consider a low-rise jean with a contoured waistband. Legs that taper out to a graceful and generous boot cut are also flattering—but without giving you the retro bell-bottom look. Or, to give the appearance of wider hips and a fuller backside, choose a cigarette-style jean.

Full-figured body types: Choose a traditional five-pocket-style jean that isn’t too snug and has a little give. Many jeans from Gap, Levi’s, or Old Navy are woven with spandex, so that they stretch nicely to your frame. Citizens of Humanity jeans are also hugely popular due to a mix of 2 percent Lycra and 98 percent cotton denim, which results in a slimmer, taller appearance. Remember also that a slight flare at the leg opening, such as a boot cut, will help to balance a wider or fuller figure, as well as make your legs look longer. Always opt for jeans in darker shades, as they’ll have a naturally slimming effect.

Measure Yourself for the Perfect-Fitting Jeans

With so many designer jeans on the market, such as True Religion jeans, Citizens of Humanity jeans, Diesel jeans, Blue Cult jeans, Chip and Pepper jeans, Joe’s Jeans, and Seven for All Mankind jeans, it’s important to do your homework and select the right pair of jeans for your body type.

Measure your waist and hips with the measuring tape a bit loose. Note that your actual waist measurement will not equal jean waist size. For example, a person with a 26-inch waist typically wears jeans with a 28-inch waist.

To get your inseam, take a pair of pants that fit well and measure from the crotch down.

Refer to the seller’s sizing chart to see which size is best for you.

Remember, despite sizing charts, some makers will run smaller than others. For example, Seven for All Mankind jeans tend to run smaller than Citizens of Humanity jeans. So, when buying Seven jeans, opt for a size larger than you might normally choose.

(more…)