The Ultimate Guide to Woman’s Jeans

As seasons pass, aging trends make their way to the sale rack, where they will soon disappear into the vast archives of style history. Style is a revolving door, and only several pieces remain constants. Though variations are inevitable, jeans are a staple sure to stick for the long haul. Colored, distressed, skinny, and boyfriend jeans are styles to suit any and every body type. With all the styles and variations, jean shopping can be confusing for any fashion-forward lady. Here’s the ultimate buyer's guide to jean shopping, sure to help you find the perfect denim.  

What to Look For in Jeans

Quality Check! More often than not, good denim is worth the price tag. Cheap jeans are easy to find scattered throughout the mall, and they certainly can be tempting when they boast a great fit in the changing room. A couple of weeks after purchase, however, they have lost shape and fit and suddenly don’t seem worth even the lowest of price tags. Sound familiar? Don’t worry; it happens to the best of fashionistas! This is avoidable by shopping around for denim of higher quality, and often a notable brand. Look for brands like Citizens of Humanity, Banana Republic, J.Brand, and Lucky for top-of-the-line quality that relentlessly meets on-trend styles. 

Stretch Denim is Your Friend! Stretch denim is universally flattering. It hugs the curves, sucks in extra weight, and fits beautifully. However, pay attention to the rise and style, as this can greatly affect the overall look of certain body types. 

Distressed is in... again! Distressed denim has been in for several seasons now, and it’s not going anywhere! In fact, it might be reaching its peak of distressedness. This style is testing the limits with ultra-distressed boyfriend-style jeans that give off the "barely intact" look. Paired with some cute booties, you’ll be ready to hit the streets of New York with your on-trend look. 

The Single, Most Important Jean Rule! If there’s one thing women of any and all body types must remember when buying jeans, it’s that no matter how many tips you read on what jeans will be flattering on you, the best way to find your style is by trying on different pairs. Jeans can be very particular to each person, and brands differ dramatically. Start shopping to find your perfect pair!

Jeans By Body Type

Curvy: Curvy is hot, let’s keep it that way! Accentuate the curves with high-rise jeans which act as a shaper, and hug the body beautifully. Another thing to look for with a curvy body type is a cigarette leg. This particular fit will balance out curves. When combined with a high-rise jean, you have a recipe for the perfect pair! Check out the brand mother who has mastered the art of high rise.  Mother Stunner Ultra High Rise ($235, Bloomingdale's).

Short Legs: If you wish to make your legs appear longer, try out some flared jeans. This doesn’t mean you have to travel back to the 70s. A flattering flare bottom can be minimal and still do the trick! P.S., Long legs look just as sexy in a pair of flares! 7’s For All Mankind makes quality denim that will see you through years of wear. Check out the A Pocket Flare Jeans ($119, Nordstrom).

Petite: If you’re on the petite side, a cropped denim or capris style will look super cute! The Paige Collete high waist crop flares ($199,  Soxy) combine key elements to flatter a petite figure.

Slender: For slender body types, a skinny jean is just what you need. Get them in high or low rise, both will be flattering. Form-fitting and curve-hugging, this style will give you some extra shape and looks super cute with many shoe styles ( lucky you!) Articles of Society Sarah Skinny Jeans ($79, Nordstrom) are a great place to start. 

Small Bum: If you’re flat in the behind department, don’t fear! Focus on pocket placement and lift, as this is the key to achieving a more rounded bum look. A tight fit is ideal, as they will cling to any curves you may have. Brands like McGuire Denim & NYDJ should be at the top of the shopping list, as they have jeans specially curated to your needs!  The McGuire Denim Newton Skinny is a flattering option for this body type.

Tall: If you’re of the tall sort, you’ve got jean-shopping options galore! The biggest struggle tall gals have is finding denim long enough to not look like a flood pant. Fortunately, many styles, including flare, skinny, and boyfriend will look flattering on you. Flat shoes tend to be a favorite for tall women, which happen to pair beautifully with boyfriend Jeans, and the cuffed distressed look is so in right now! Try the Kut from Kloth Catherine Distressed Boyfriend Jeans ($89, Nordstrom).