Whether it's the way they hug the body or how they match almost everything, few clothes are as long-lasting and as comforting as a pair of jeans. But finding a pair that fits your body style is the key to jean happiness.
Easier said than done. How many times have you tried on a pair of jeans in your size and found it impossible to zip them up without inhaling, jumping up and down or reclining on a chair?Finding a pair of jeans is one of the most difficult wardrobe tasks, said Linda Smith, owner of Fashion Etc. and a fashion consultant for Everett Asbury Modeling Agency.
"It doesn't matter what type of body you have, finding jeans that fit is difficult," she said. "The best way to avoid disasters later is to buy a pair of jeans that fit your body style in the first place."
Bottom heaviness is one of the main problems women complain about, said Kay Hineline, director of fashion merchandising at McLennan Community College. To minimize any problem area, she recommends sticking to simple, one-tone jeans.
"Anything light or bright such as floral or plaid will draw attention to the part of the body you are trying to conceal," said Hineline, who teaches classes on figure analysis and wardrobe selection.
Smith identifies four body styles and offers these suggestions for jeans that look best on them:
- Pear-shaped people tend to have narrow shoulders, rib cages and waists and broad, full bottoms. People with this shape should wear jeans that are pleated at the waist and unrestrictive through the hips. She also recommends compensating for a small upper body by wearing shoulder pads.
- Apple-shaped people tend to store extra weight in the waist, stomach and sometimes the bust. The bottom is usually more flat than round. People with this body style should select jeans with a few pleats on the side and a smooth waist band to conceal the stomach. A drop-yoke may also be figure flattering for women who have a bulging middle.
- Saddle baggers generally have a small, slim frame that hides extra weight on the upper thighs and lower bottom, where it is often referred to as saddlebags. People with this figure should wear jeans with a paper bag waist where the waist is big and the jeans go straight down. She also recommends baggy jeans to camouflage saddle bags.
- Hourglassers have a generous bosom, full hips and a small waist. Smith said these women should not wear jeans that are big or baggy. She recommends jeans that have a regular cut and that are not too tight or baggy.
Even if you know your body style, it is still important to try on a pair of jeans before you bring them home, said Smith.
"Jeans are not like a shirt - you can't hold them up and look into a mirror and say this pair will work," she said. "If a pair doesn't fit or feel right, then go with another style."
Once you find a pair of jeans that fits, be smart and stock up.
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Tips of buying jeans
Jeans are not just a fair-weather friend, they can be worn almost anytime, any place. Linda Smith, a fashion consultant for Fashion Etc. and Everett Asbury Modeling Agency, offers these suggestions on how to get the most out of your jeans:
- Mix and match them with wool blazers. Even those that you buy to wear with a skirt can give jeans a new look.
- Vests and jeans can be flirty or serious. Pair vests with a plain shirt or turtleneck for a preppy look. Combine vests with a blazer for a dressier look.
- Jeans can take you into the night by wearing them with black leather and suede. Vests and jackets made of these fabrics can give jeans a sleek edge on fashion.
- Accessorize jeans with miniature backpacks, wallets on a string and leather belts.
- Finish off the look with suede and leather loafers or ankle boots.