Tips for finding that perfect pair of jeans
Whether
you're petite, curvy, or over 50, Stacy London of TLC's ‘What Not to
Wear’ shares advice on choosing the best denim for you
Who's
not overwhelmed in the jean department? They're a staple in most of our
closets, but with all the different brands, sizes, washes and fits,
finding a great pair of jeans takes some work. Stacy London, “Today”
fashion expert and co-host of TLC's “What Not To Wear,” shares some
tips on choosing the right jean for your shape.
Denim rules
1.
Consider jeans the way you would a pair of work trousers — they are
alterable. Custom jeans are becoming more and more popular.
2.
They are a great blank canvas. You can try out trends by paring them
with jeans rather than trying to do a whole trend “look.”
3. If you find a great-fitting pair, always buy two: one to wear with flats and one to wear with heels.
4.
Jeans can work on all women, no matter what age, size, etc. — but not
all styles work for all women. Wear a style because it's flattering,
not just because it's trendy.
Jeans for the office
Obviously,
you need to know whether jeans are allowed in your workplace. One of
the best parts of business casual is that the slight boot-cut,
trouser-looking jean has come out of the concept. In a dark wash, it
doubles more as a trouser, and with a front crease it creates a
polished, completely work-appropriate silhouette. Boot-cut styles
really do look best with a pointy toe, it lengthens the leg line and
makes you taller and slimmer.
Coat: J.Crew, $298; sweater
vest: H&M, $24.90; shirt: Ted Baker @ Filene's Basement, $89;
jeans: Citizens of Humanity, $198; other great brands include Earnest
Sewn and Nomad Tribe.
Finding fashion-forward jeans
When
you are petite, you are always fighting the “little girl” look. One way
to do that in denim is to go more fashion-forward. Try the skinny jean
of the season, not only to call more attention to womanly curves but to
“age” yourself the right way. Brown is a very edgy denim color this
season, as is black and, more importantly, gray. (You'll look too young
in a faded blue jean with rips at the knee.) This edgier style works to
lengthen the leg line and make you look taller, and the new color ages
you appropriately. Jacket: Banana Republic, $298; top: H&M, $24.90; Jeans: J Brand, $158; other great brands: Tsubi, Superfine, Siwi
Finding larger-size jeans
The
most universally flattering shape is a medium rise, medium width,
straight or slightly boot cut leg jean. For the best fit, consider the
shape of the jean first, then the wash. For a jean that could do double
duty between work and play, try a cut that flatters your hip and thigh
in a more casual, less formal wash — rather than a super dark or
bleached denim. Darker even washes (meaning no bleaching, whiskering)
tend to slim the leg, but also tend to look more formal. Top: Karen Kane, $72; camisole: Only Hearts, $58; jeans: Lucky Brand, $98; other great brands: Gap Curvy, DKNY, Red Engine
Finding age-appropriate jeans
Women
in their 20s, 30s or 40s should try a straight leg jean with no bells
or whistles. Jeans need to look and feel age appropriate; you don't
want to look like you're trying too hard in a trendy jean. Choose a
lighter wash; some of the darker washes will hide your great shape
completely, while light washes call more attention to the legs and give
your bottom half more presence. I love this style for a mature woman on
the weekend: tweed jacket, turtleneck sweater, good jean, good boot.
It's a great easy uniform. Blazer: J.Crew, $235; shirt: Lord &
Taylor, $89.99; jeans: Seven for all Mankind $143; great jean brands:
Theory, Tahari, Levi's.