Where to buy and what to look for…
Jeans are a bit like the clothing version of what foundations are to me when it comes to makeup. The perfect number is n+1 – You know? In my defense, not only is it something I wear 95% of the time, it’s also timeless – even styles that may not be ‘in’ at the moment, will always come back. So I’ve grown quite a collection over the years, and today I thought I’d try to compile all my finds here – from the styles I rate the most (and some useful sizing info), to my top jeans shopping tips…
MY DENIM TOP TIPS
Count up. Most jeans are sold by waist measurement – usually in inches. So while I’ve been foolishly guessing my size for years and hoping for the best, it turns out that getting a tape measure around your waist can stop the endless back and forth. Relax your stomach and measure the smallest part of your waist to get your measurement. Most retailers will also have a size guide, so refer to that as well as take any notes on fitting. If there’s ever a pair I’ve worn and mind you, I’ve added all my sizes and fit details here (after logging in).
Try them on. This may seem obvious, but try them again. This is why I personally love shopping for jeans online because it allows me to try them on in the comfort of my own home and see how they work with other things in my wardrobe or with different types of shoes. You really get the right feel for them. Don’t rush it and don’t rip the labels until you get to 100% (I’ve made this mistake WAY too many times). I would also recommend trying them at different times of the day as our bodies change from AM to PM. While you don’t want something that’s too tight, denim does stretch naturally, so keep that in mind and really think about what kind of fit you’re looking for.
Composition. Familiarize yourself with garment composition control. It is always listed on the website or on the clothing tags and can help you get exactly what you want. If stretch in your jeans is non-negotiable, then look for ones that contain even a small percentage of elastane. The higher the percentage of elastane, the more stretch they will have. If you prefer that stiffer, vintage feel, then look for styles that are 100% cotton.
aftercare. It is best to wash the jeans inside out in the washing machine at a temperature of 30℃ or below. NEVER Tumble Dry – I always hang mine to air dry and if you can avoid washing them, do so. It is not a garment that requires frequent washing. Sometimes I just give them a whiff of it Blackhorse Lane Atelier Denim Spray* and put them back on the hanger. I like to hang them from the belt on a trouser hanger so it’s easy to tell the different styles apart, as they can do the same to me when folded a few times! But it also lets them air out between uses.
THE STYLES TO BUY
THE STRAIGHT LEG
The straight leg style is THE style of the moment and I can see why because it just looks good with any shoe you pair it with, it has that minimal 90s feel and can be worn a little looser or a little tighter as you like. Now you all know I’m going to say that the AGOLDE 90s Pinch Waist Jean* is my favorite and for good reason. I don’t think I’ve ever found a pair of jeans that fit me so well. I would also recommend it black* and I just found out more indian* shadow that does things for me. Now I haven’t tried it Abercrombie High Rise 90’s Relaxed Jean*, but the length and size offering is just incomparable, so I might have to pick up a pair to give them a shot. Or if it’s another alternative you’re looking for, I love it ARKET Dhalia Jeans* also for something similar (I would recommend sizing up a size or two for a slightly larger fit). For vintage style I would also recommend checking it out Jeans pin & Cheeky’s Online, both sell A LOAD of Levi’s 501s.
THE FARTY LEG
I can feel the wide leg coming back in. I actually really like it in summer as it looks so great with flip flops, but it also makes a great fall denim style, especially paired with a pointed shoe. You could go two routes here – something that works more like a classic flare and sits tighter on the thighs, or a style that’s flatter on the thighs with a wider calf section. I personally prefer the later and like it a lot Citizen’s of Humanity Paloma Jeans* for this (I would recommend reducing the size). If you’re a little shorter than me, then go for it Citizen’s of Humanity Ayla Jeans* A transition, the turn looks so good, especially when it’s all the way to the floor. For a high-street option try this ARKET Shore Low Relaxed Jeans* – I would recommend going two sizes smaller than usual so they sit a little higher on the waist. Now you can go cropped with these too – I personally like a cropped leg in a cream as it has a bit more feel to it trousers, than jean and I find they wear a bit more. The ones I have are now sold out everywhere, but the Sézane Le Crop* they look great.
THE SATIATED LEG
They may not be the most popular style right now, but I’ve kept my favorite pair RE/DONE High Stove Jeans* because you just *know* they’ll be back at some point. Plus, fall is a great time of year for them because they work really well when you want to show off a status with socks or fancy boots. The ARKET Rose Cropped Straight Stretch Jeans* seem to be very convincing mockery and once again the Abercrombie high rise straight ankle jeans* Available in a huge range of washes, lengths and sizes.
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Pictures from Mark Newton
