Author of this post - Sanskriti Kapoor
Jeans are a wardrobe mainstay, and there are tons of options to consider when choosing a new pair. But lots of options means lots of decisions to make, and sometimes those choices can be overwhelming. Enter our denim experts! These aficionados cover all types of jeans, share their favorite styles and fits and offer tips on how to find the best-fitting jeans for your body type. Their insider advice will have you shopping for jeans like a pro in no time.
You may have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find that one perfect Prince and the same goes for buying the right kind of jeans. Jeans shopping is always a challenge. Good jeans cost a lot and buying what everyone else is buying is the recipe for looking the worst. You will have to know some, try some and go out and buy some to get it right finally. Most of the people buy relaxed fit jeans with a mid-rise (the standard) and are happy with their purchase. But when it comes to other styles that suit their body shape particularly, they are confused. They are right to be confused, there are so many different styles.
This post may guide you in finding that perfect jeans that is comfortable and fitting and just right for you.
Measure yourself first. Using a flexible measuring tape, Measure around hips and waist (loosely). You need to measure the natural waist and low waist measurement (some jeans brands have this). Measure the inseam length (from crotch to down). You need to get a jeans which fit you where you are the largest. If it does not, the jeans is of no use to you.
Types of Jean Fits
- Skinny Fit. We love skinny jeans for their universal appeal—anyone can wear them. Plus, the silhouette pairs effortlessly with so many styles of shoes and tops and can be worn for both work and play. If you're looking for a slimming effect, go for a dark wash. Interested in a more fashion-forward pair? A deconstructed style adds a little edge.
- Flare Jeans. A bit of a nod to older, simpler times, flare jeans hug the waistline, but then flare out beyond the knees. They can range from the subtle flare to something designed to catch the eye. While flare jeans work for any figure, they’re particularly flattering on women with broader shoulders or narrow hips.
- Relaxed Fit. Concerned that relaxed jeans are too casual to wear regularly? We're here to convince you that they can be very versatile. Once you've found a pair of jeans you like, there are two tricks to keeping the look polished and feminine: cuff or roll the hems to show off your ankles, and buy true to your size. Relaxed-fit jeans have that broken-in feeling built right in, so stick to your size for the best fit. Pair with heels or flats, a blouse or a tee—the possibilities are endless!
- Cropped Jeans. Women's cropped jeans feature an inseam of 26" or shorter and typically stop about one to two inches above your ankle. Wear with heeled booties to give your look lift and to show off your ankles.
- Ankle Jeans. Women's ankle jeans feature an inseam that measures 27"-29" and typically fall right at the ankle or just above. They're super versatile and easy to pair with just about any style of shoe.
- Straight Fit. There are two primary types of straight jeans: fashion and classic. If you're looking for denim that stands out, a fashion-focused style is for you. We love a pair with unique front-and-center seams or a vintage-inspired fit designed to show off your curves. If you prefer a more streamlined style, go for a classic silhouette. Its clean lines make it easy to take from day to night—just swap out sneakers for stilettos and you're set for a dinner out with the girls or a date night with someone special.
The measurement of your jeans' rise (front and back) affects the fit and overall look of your denim. Low, mid, high and ultrahigh—discover which rise of jeans is right for you.
- Low Rise. Low-rise jeans feature a 5"-8" rise and typically land a few inches below your bellybutton. This rise is ideal for those with shorter torsos—there isn't as much fabric, so they're more comfortable for this body type.
- Mid Rise. Mid-rise jeans measure 8"-9" and will hit right at your hips, about an inch below your bellybutton.
- High Rise. The most flattering rise! Depending on your torso, women's high-rise jeans will sit right at your bellybutton or just below. Measuring 9.5"-10.5", the rise defines your waist and gives the illusion of longer legs.
- Ultrahigh Rise. This rise delivers the same benefits as a high rise but measures just a touch higher at 11"-12" and hits right above your bellybutton.
Great news: When it comes to wash, it’s all blue skies for you—there’s really no wrong or right when it comes to wash—it’s all about your personal preferences. Generally speaking, darker washes are best for going dressy, and lighter washes are great for beachy vibes. But your blue (or black or grey or white…) up to you.
- Dark Wash. A dark wash pair of jeans is universally appealing to all shapes & sizes (and wears over time like a dream). Look for dark blue and black washes to add to your collection. Make sure you know how to wash black jeans properly so they don’t end up fading.
- Light to Medium Wash. We like to call this the workhorse wash. From day to night, summer to winter—it’s always appropriate. What’s a wash tip to keep in mind? The lighter the wash, the more casual the vibe. Pro tip: Look for a seriously faded wash and pair with a light neutral top for a monochromatic look.
- Coloured Denim. Elevate a basic jean-and-tee look with a darker hue like burgundy or olive. Punchier colours are great for warmer months.
Now, having given a consideration to the types and classifications of Jeans, let us take a look at some important tips that may make your Jeans shopping experience a lot more fruitful -
Some Tips to go shopping for jeans
Some people go jeans shopping and find that one good pair with just that one little flaw – the rise may be way too low or way too high, the waistband could gap while it fits everywhere else, the length could make you look stocky and short, the cut of the leg is not to your liking, it could be too long, too short, too flared, too baggy, too tight, or whatever. If you end up like that, look more.
Do not buy with the intention of altering this one aspect – it does not work that way. You have to get it right as you take it out of the showroom. Get it right at the hips, waist, and leg length – if it is a minor issue like length you can alter it -may be the shop itself will do it for you. But major issues like an ill fitting waistband is not worth the trouble to alter it.
Important factors to take into consideration other than the above concerns are the quality of denim fabric it is made of, the strength of its stitching, the finishes done on it like distressing and washes done on it to make it what it is and of course the brand name.
