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10 things to know about buying jeans |
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Written by Rod Stafford Hagwood, MCT
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Thursday, 01 November 2007 |
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Aaahh, that denim dilemma.
You walk into a store to buy a pair of jeans and are immediately overwhelmed with all the choices. It is quite possible that you could have more jeans than genes.
"Try on as many different sizes near your normal size as you can," advises T.J. Maxx's Laura McDowell. "No two designers cut jeans the same way. A size 8 with one is a size 6 with another."
Also, give it some thought before you leave home and consider what is already in your closet, advises Wichy Hassan, creative director for the fashion-forward label Miss Sixty. For example, are you looking to replace or add to your collection?
"When purchasing a new pair of jeans, it is always a good idea to have a game plan of what you are looking to buy," Hassan says. "Having a specific idea of what you are looking for is the best when shopping for that new pair of jeans. Start with the basics and then narrow your search by considering the unique styling details of each pair."
Here are 10 specific tips for buying denim:
First, decide whether you are looking for a skinny leg (stovepipe), a straight leg, boot-cut or trouser-cut (wide-leg) jeans. Keep in mind that boot-cut tends to be more figure-forgiving and skinny-leg jeans are best suited for the very young and very thin.
Next, choose between a dark wash or a light wash (hint: light washes are only for the very, very, very young). There is also a rainbow of brightly hued denim out there; color is good, but try not to be so "matchy" with your top.
Now think about what details you want (if any, after all denim is getting "cleaner" when it comes to embellishments). Keep the sequins, rhinestones, crystals, fringe and grommets to a minimum.
If you want a shapelier rear, look for jeans with yokes (or rear seams) that angle downward. If you have a bit of a tummy, look for jeans cut higher in the back than the front in a boot-cut with Lycra-enhanced fit. Floridians love denim capris, but remember the proportions can make your derriere look mountainous ... which isn't always a bad thing.
The proper length for your jeans — where the hem falls — should be just skimming the shoe when you stand. This will depend a great deal on which shoes you plan on wearing the jeans with. If you're wearing the latest nightclub jean in a pinstripe or herringbone, then you must wear heels and therefore need a longer cut than daytime jeans you might wear with flats. You can ask for jeans with the original hem (also called a European hem or a tricky hem), which are essentially uncut. Then have them hemmed specifically for you by a tailor usually for less than $20.
High-waisted jeans — the latest rage — are great for highlighting an hourglass figure.
The inseam is vital to keep the proportions right: 34 inches for the average woman and 32 inches for the less-than-statuesque. If the woman is 5-foot-10 or taller, start with a 36-inch inseam.
For this fall and well into next spring, stovepipe skinny jeans are on the outs while trouser-cut (wide-leg) jeans are coming into their own. If you must wear stovepipe (we're looking at you Gwen Stefani and Lindsay Lohan), then pair them with ballet flats.
Oversized rear pockets need a full tush. Smaller heinies require smaller rear pockets.
When washing, turn your jeans inside out. Add a little vinegar to maintain color. Lots of jeans these days have a little Lycra for stretch, so remember to set the dryer on low or you'll stretch the Lycra. (Better yet, hang dry if you can.) Cotton jeans should also have a low setting in the dryer. | Only registered users can write comments.
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