The Essential: Dark-wash Ankle-length Skinny Jean
WHY...
It's no secret that denim is eponymous with American fashion. So it should come as no surprise that your trusty blues top the Essentials List. Denim plays a vital role in every woman's wardrobe. There's no other singular piece that offers the versatility that the classic blue jean does. What once was the weekend go-to has now become a mainstay in the workplace wardrobe as well. The right pair of jeans should make you feel confident, sexy and should be COMFORTABLE (enough of the muffin tops already!)
We know we love them and that we gotta have them but the hard part is finding the right pair. So what exactly should you be looking for?
Since we're talking essentials, the one denim style you need to own is an ankle-length, dark-washed skinny jean. Why? Because it creates clean lines on the body and makes any shape look longer and leaner. Plus, it can be worn with flats or heels without worrying about the bottoms getting tattered and can be easily tucked into boots. Talk about versatility! Now, I will admit there are a select group of people for whom this silhouette doesn't work, in those instances opt for a slim boyfriend cut instead - this will also create the clean lines we're looking for with just a little more room in the butt and thighs.
Let's get to the long and short of it... by talking about the rise of your denim. The rise you choose will depend largely on your height and the length of your torso. Generally speaking, a mid-rise style is what you should be looking for - it provides enough coverage for the derriere and makes any tucking you want to do, easy. But unless you're within an inch or two of 5'5", a mid-rise style may be too high or low for you. For those on the petite side, a low-rise fit will provide mid-rise coverage. Those with legs for days? Grab a high-rise.
The number one most common mistake I see women make is that they spend hundreds of dollars on denim but never get it altered. Your jeans should not bunch around the ankle. Once washed, bring them in and get them shortened to the ankle bone. Depending on how much they need to be taken up, you may need to taper the bottom of the leg a little more. Once again, its about creating clean lines to make you look longer and leaner. For those of you who can't afford to go out and buy a new pair today, alter your existing ones in this way and they'll feel brand new.
When you find a pair that flatters, buy multiples. Often times denim manufacturers discontinue styles after a season or two in order to make room for new ones.
Some of my favorites include:
- High rise:
- Mid rise:
- Slim boyfriend jean
- Curvy fit
- Affordable
Photo credit: Netaporter.com. Denim from left to right: Rag & Bone, Proenza Schouler and Frame
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