Shopping for jeans can be fun – seriously, it can be. When you know what to look for and what to avoid, you can walk out with your dream pair. I’ve compiled a few tips to help guide you before your next jean shopping trip.
Here are 5 tips to find the perfect jeans:
Shop for Your Shape
- If you have a tummy: Look for a pair with a moderate rise. To balance out your middle section, look to add volume on your lower half with a boot-cut option. Other jean styles to consider: Slim/straight leg with a slight boot cut and flair.
- If you have an hourglass figure: A tapered leg is flattering. And, if you are curvier – look for options that come up higher in the back for coverage.
- If you have full hips and thighs: Look for a higher rise in the back vs. the front. You want to make sure that it is not cutting off your body at the widest point. Straight, not skinny at the ankle are a great option.
- If you have a straight figure (no curves): Almost anything goes for you.
- If you are in search of curves: Check out high-waisted flairs.
I have listed just a few tips to consider when shopping for your shape. You will want to consider your height, what you are looking to accentuate, area(s) you want to minimize, the rise, your rear, your thighs, etc.
Focus on Fit, Not the Tag Size
Focus on how the jeans fits you, and not the number on the tag. With that being said, bring in a few sizes for each style/brand that you try-on. Sizes can vary between styles and brands. Do not get discouraged. Depending on your height and rise, you can also look at petite or tall options.
Pay Attention to Back Details
- Make sure the center seam of the jeans is snug enough to define your rear.
- Small back pockets can make your butt look bigger. For some women, this might be a good thing.
- Your hips will look smaller if the back pockets are closer together.
- Avoid, flaps and any sort of details (studs and bling) on the pocket – especially if you are looking to detract attention from that area. The only time I would recommend flaps (make sure the stitching is simple), is if you want to amp up your backside.
Run Them Through a Few Tests
Once you find a pair of jeans, run them through a few tests. Walk around a bit with them on, do a few laps around the store, sit down, stand back up, do a kart-wheel (just kidding), and then look at yourself with them on in the mirror again. You want to make sure the fit is still perfect. Check for sagging and bunching. If you can already feel the jeans stretching, try-on a pair a size smaller. If they are made with spandex or elastane, they can stretch up to 10% over a few wearings.
Bring a Pair (or Two) of Shoes
If you like to wear flats and heels with your jeans, bring both or wear one (bring the other pair). It will help you see how the jeans look with your shoes and if any potential alterations will be needed. You might need to look for a shorter or longer rise. Tip: If you are not a fan of 2″ or taller heels – A kitten heel (smaller heel) or wedge are great because they will elongate your legs.
When you find a pair of jeans that you love, buy two. Trust me, you will be happy that you did. You might want to get one pair tailored for flats (if they are longer). Then you will have your favorite go-to pair of jeans for flats and heels.
“…I was so impressed with LeAnn’s ability to select perfect items for me. For example, she selected exactly 2 pair of jeans for me to try on… Both pair fit me like they were made for me! How can she do that? She has made shopping and dressing fun and enjoyable again. Thank you!” ~Suzanne W.
If you need any assistance finding the perfect pair of jeans, contact me to set up a fall shopping session at 414.841.5096 or leann@conwayimageconsulting.
