What Type Of Jeans Should You Be Buying?
Are you finding yourself needing a new pair of jeans but not knowing where to start? Do you want a change from the same type of jeans you wear every day? Do you have no idea what each cut of jeans means? Well, then this article is for you.
For years I only wore black, skinny jeans because they were plain and went with everything, however, they never really looked great on me. Then, about three years ago, I decided to go for something so different from my usual style – light blue acid wash mum jeans. It was then that I started to my love affair with jeans, and these three years of trying and buying have taught me a lot about different cuts and what looks good. Finding a good pair of jeans takes time, you need to try on so many pairs to find THE one, but when you do find a fit which looks great on you, it can make every outfit you wear. Hopefully, this will help you find your perfect pair of jeans.
1. Skinny
Skinny jeans are probably the most popular cut of jeans- I’m fairly confident in saying everyone I know owns a pair. Skinny jeans are a blend material of denim and elastic, meaning they stick and mould to your legs, making them look ‘skinny’. It is best to buy skinny jeans if you are looking for a basic to go with absolutely anything. They also complement every body type; a key tip though is to avoid a low rise waist as that will cut you off instead of lengthening you, and this is a tip to consider with all cuts of jeans.
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2. Straight Leg
As can be deduced from their name, straight leg jeans are cut the same width all the way down the leg, making them a straight line. Much like the skinny, they are also complimentary on all heights and body shapes. So, if you are comfortable in skinny jeans but are looking for a step towards something different or more ‘fashion forward’, these are a brilliant choice for you.
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3. Mum
Mum jeans are named after the type of jeans your mum would have worn in the ’80s or ’90s, a more relaxed fit, very high waisted and usually 100% denim – this means they are stiffer at first, but once you wear them in they are extremely comfortable and long lasting. If you are wanting a more vintage or retro look, these are definitely the jeans for you. Also, if you are a petite girl or have short legs, consider buying into mum jeans as the super high waist will give the illusion of longer legs and being taller.
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4. Boyfriend
Very similar to mum jeans, boyfriend jeans are named after the type of jeans that you would steal off of your boyfriend. These jeans tend to be quite baggy and usually come in a mid or low-rise waist. They are an A+ for comfort, but when it comes to showing off any curves they are not your best friend as they leave your lower half a bit shapeless. The boyfriend jean looks best on girls who are taller and more boyish in curves, as the bagginess of the jeans will leave your top half looking slim and petite.
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5. Flare
The most recent jean to make a comeback are the flare cut jean. They are similar to skinny jeans from the waist to the knee, and then gradually flare out from the knee to the ankle. These jeans are much more of a statement, so if you’re looking for something a bit out there, or for a retro feel with their callback to the 1970s, then these are for you. Flare jeans are another cut that can be worn by all shapes and sizes, however, if you are shorter consider going for a more understated flare, and if you are taller you can go for a more flamboyant style- this is because you need to balance out the flare with the proportions of your body.
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6. Wide Leg
Similarly to the straight leg, the wide leg is a cut of jean that is straight, however, it does not follow the curve of the leg at all. From the widest point on the hips, the seam of the jeans starts and gradually carries on further away from the leg, leaving the wide leg cut roomy with a lot of material. Wide leg cuts are best for taller people, as that much material on a short person will swamp them. Another tip when it comes to wide leg jeans is to wear a body-con top so you can keep the shape on part of your body.
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