One of my favorite fall/winter pieces is a denim trench coat by John Bartlett. I believe that denim is the most populist fabric the world has ever known! It works well for high-end garments, such as my coat, and everything from Fleet Farm bib overalls to True Religion fashion skinnies. All modern people wear denim in some way, shape or form, but it is jeans that comprise 50 percent of a person’s wardrobe. But, what is it about this humble garment that gave it undeniable success?
Not that long ago, only poor, working class folks wore denim jeans. Practicality, not fashion, was the rule in the first part of the 20th century. By the ’50s, rolled jeans voiced rebellion, like James Dean in the movies. The ’60s brought the real fashion revolution as denim and the hippie-casual culture invaded every city and suburb alike. A fashion statement everyone could own emerged. Who didn’t wear something made of denim in the ’70s? I even had a white denim “leisure suit” that I wore to my confirmation for gosh sakes! From then on designer jeans starred in the day-to-day lives of people all over the world. It is the ultimate rags-to-riches story.
The average person shopping for denim can be easily overwhelmed by the nuances in styles, colors and fabrications this wardrobe staple has to offer. There are only two things you really need to know: leg style options and rise options. Leg style describes the fit from the hips down. Rise is where the waistband hits your torso. Keep this handy rundown of styles in mind the next time you’re out shopping for jeans.
Leg Styles
Skinny leg – This means snug everywhere to the ankle. This style is really only for the genetically blessed or the very confident. Keep the rise regular to low for the rocker look. But, you can balance larger thighs by pairing chunkier more substantial shoes with this silhouette.
Straight leg – This means the same width at the hip, knee, and ankle. A style that is perfect on all body types. Go for stretch denim if you have a small waist with larger hips. The fit will be better and the style will slim and elongate legs.
Boot-cut leg– This means a slight flare to go over boots and is a shape that can really help to balance broader thighs. Go for a longer length that you can wear heels with.
Trouser leg– This cut is fuller from the hip down and has a wider hem like a dress slack. It looks good with the higher rise in jeans. Good for skinnier to average body types. Great look with heels or platforms.
Rises
High-rise – This sits above the natural waist and covers the belly button. It’s the new look of the season when paired with the trouser, or boot cut leg. Good for
 |
| “Mom Jeans” |
long torsos and waist definition. This look can easily become a “mom jean” in the blink of an eye though, so be careful! Remember the Jessica Simpson pictures in her “mom jeans”?
Regular rise – Sits just below the navel at the natural waistline. This rise is great with all the leg style options, and it works magic with most body types. It’s great for post-pregnancy tummy when done in a Lycra blend denim. This is probably the best for anyone with any sort of tummy.
Low rise – Waistband sits 2-3 inches below navel. This style is great for short-waisted gals, who want to elongate the torso. Paired with the straight leg or boot cut, this is perfect for creating a taller, more proportionate shape. If you have a small butt, go for pocket embellishment or flaps to create the illusion of fullness. Low rise jeans are NOT for everyone, just because you can get them on doesn’t mean you should wear them. I have only two words for you: muffin top.
If on the larger side, go for darker washes and little to no extras on back pockets, if any at all. Stick to boot cut or straight leg to balance bigger thighs. Wear flares that completely cover shoes, for the ultimate in leg lengthening! Stay away from high-density fabrics like cotton if you are on the heavier side. By going with stretch denim, you will get a better fit in the waist and a slimmer outline of the hip area.
 |
| Acid-Washed Jeans |
A lot of stars have been spotted lately wearing acid-washed jeans. Even though they can work for some, I have no use for the look. I lived through the hideousness of it all the first time around! Same rules apply for distressed denim. Destroyed completely just doesn’t say classy to me. When I see girls with shredded jeans, I think they look a little trashy.
So remember the rules, Milwaukee denim buyers. Just say no to huge bell-bottoms, ultra low, low rise, ultra high, high-rise, baggy, saggy or other faddish jeans, unless you can totally rock them. I think that we instinctively know when a pair of jeans fits the right way, but take along a friend with good taste if you need moral support. Use a fresh eye and shrewd judgment when buying denim wear, and you’ll make the best fashion investment of the season!
