Jeans, the style staple and fashion item guaranteed to be in every wardrobe in the world, just never seem to go out of style. Indeed, this perennial trouser favourite is just that because of its simplicity, versatility and timeless quality. But just because we all own a pair doesn’t mean that we’re particularly well practiced at picking them. Quite the opposite in fact. For each we wear until they’re faded and worn, there lurks another at the bottom of the drawer which has only graced our legs once. So, don’t leave choosing your denim dreams purely up to chance. Instead, read on; our 4 IDEAL tips for picking the perfect pair of jeans.
GO FOR QUALITY
In life, there are times when spending that little bit extra will bring exponentially better results – when budgeting just won’t do – and buying jeans, we think, is one of those times. Indeed, when it comes to making such a purchase, you get what you pay for. Higher quality denim simply holds its shape and structure better, meaning that, although an initial investment, your designer pair will stand the test of time when other pairs shrink in the wash, tear at a festival or lose their colour with age. You’ll get hundreds of wears out of a good quality pair of jeans, so as a general rule, don’t be afraid of the higher price tag.
WHAT SHAPE IS FOR YOU?
Of course, jeans, just like people, come in all shapes and sizes. But which style complements your shape best? So many of us simply try and fluke it where the perfect fit is concerned. But this shouldn’t be the case. Naturally, the main thing to keep in mind is that you’re comfortable. Choose a style that you feel confident in and it’ll shine through. But there are also a few rules concerning which body shape and fit marry most beautifully together.
For pear shape: Pear-shaped figures are defined by carrying a little more weight around the middle. A mid-rise style with a straight or bootcut leg can flatter such a shape and elongate the legs nicely. On the flipside, try to avoid high-waisted trousers, as this style can make your legs look shorter.
For apple shape: If you’re apple-shaped, you’re likely to carry weight around the middle of your body, a little higher than the aforementioned pear. A straight-leg is again great for this shape, as it brings a focus to the legs. Match with a pair of heels to dress up the outfit.
For petite figures: Shorter women can find it difficult to find a pair of jeans that aren’t too overpowering. High-waisted trousers can create the illusion of height as well as showing off the smaller figure. Low-rise jeans are also a good fit — wear with a cropped top in the warmer months to create a summery look.
For tall figures: If you’re tall, make the most of your long legs. Low-rise with a straight or skinny leg will achieve this, or if you want your pins to look even longer, go for a high-waisted cut.
CONSIDER SHAPING TECHNOLOGY
Finding the perfect bum-sculpting jean is easier said than done. There are, however, ways to harness both the power of an ultra-slimming pair and the promise of added contour to your shape. Enter jean shaping technology.
The classic jean here is reinvented with more modern materials, designed with shaping and comfort in mind. The brand Freddy are leaders in this pack, in particular, their WR.UP model; a patented technology that pledges to enhance the shape of the wearer’s lower frame. Indeed, the technology shapes and sculpts your hips, while keeping your pants up and in place thanks to a special silicone band.
For us, the key difference with the WR.UP® Freddy is their jersey trouser design; it looks like a pair of jeans, but has the comfort of a pair of leggings. These pants follow the lines of the body and reshape them while making legs look so much longer. As such, smoothing, lifting and shaping is made easy. The exclusive 100% bi-elastic denim jersey comes in skinny, straight, 7/8 ankle length, and shorts designs. Go get it!
WHICH WASHES ARE IN THIS SEASON?
Summer has finally started to smile through the clouds, and when the year’s most optimistic season hits, the high street and boutiques alike become start to think in a lighter tone too. Consider brightening up your wardrobe with this year’s latest trend; coloured jeans. These come in the form of pretty pastel shades of yellow and pink, right through to cool khaki green washes which can confidently carry through into the autumn season.
If the classic blue jean is more your thing, aim for a slightly faded Californian shade for everyday denim, with a focus on frayed hems and ankle grazing lengths. If you want to take a more polished, work-appropriate look, opt for crisp, clean washes. For a quirky style, choose a slit hem with exposed stitching to add an edge to any outfit.
