Mum to one teenage stepson, a young daughter, and a baby boy. They are to be what they want to be.

What Does Androgynous Mean?

Gender roles and stereotypes have been thoroughly ingrained into almost every part of society. From style to career choices, the choices have always been split into two sections; things more suitable for women and things more suitable for men. But with the uprising in acceptance of varying gender and sexual identities came a term that has now become pretty common.

We must begin with the etymology of the word androgynous. The use of this word and similar versions of it dates all the way back to the 14th century. It was first used in France and then England. The root of the word comes from Greek and Latin contexts. The earliest form of this term is ἀνδρόγυνος, an Ancient Greek word. If we break up androgynous into two root components, we get andro and gyne. “Andro” has been used to refer to men and masculine features while “gyne” indicates women or feminine features.

Androgyny is a concept that combines the traditional aspects of men and the traditional features of women to create a fusion between the two. Androgyny may be used in various contexts such as identity, style, and more. It may include qualities of either both ends of the gender spectrum or neither.

What Is an Androgynous Person?

An androgynous person may fall into one of these two categories, that is, someone who identifies with both male and female genders or with neither male nor female genders. In the new age of gender study, there is no longer a strict and exclusive gender binary. Society has progressed and developed so much over the past few decades and so have gender norms. Let us briefly describe gender and how it is different from the sex of a person.

Sex is based on the genitalia that one is born with. When a baby comes into this world, he can only be assigned sex and not gender. Gender identity is completely based on social standards and attributes. One’s gender identity may differ from their sex assigned at birth. Such individuals are known as transgender.

Secondly, we can address gender fluidity. This is when a person does not feel like a woman or a man. Their gender identity lies somewhere along the spectrum. The terms nonbinary and genderqueer are also used interchangeably with this identity.

Thirdly, intersex people are those individuals who are born with a set of genitalia that is atypical, for example, both or neither male nor female parts. Anyone from the above-mentioned identities may refer to themselves as androgynous.

Origins of Androgynous Fashion

Androgyny, although it may seem otherwise, is not a new concept. It has had many different labels across the years but it has for the most part been around for centuries. Androgyny in terms of fashion started with women. Women were traditionally supposed to wear big dresses, skirts, and corsets etc. whereas suits, trousers, ties, and blazers were reserved for men. As men were the only ones with jobs and women were required to stay home, a woman in trousers was an absolutely baffling idea. Androgyny challenges this rigidity in terms of clothing. As the suffragette movement began and women started to want more practical and comfortable clothing, they started to wear trousers. This was revolutionary at the time. One such lady was Luisa Capetillo, who worked for human emancipation and women’s rights in Puerto Rico from the late 1890s to the early 1920s. She was the first woman to wear men’s pants and a tie in public!

Elisabeth Smith Miller was among the first designer to introduce pants for women. The style was called “the bloomer”, and it picked up when the designer showed it to her relative, a leader of women’s rights movements. In fashion succeeding World War 1, Coco Chanel abandoned the norm and designed androgynous clothing for women. This “flapper style” was worn by a big celebrity of the time, Marlene Dietrich around 1930.

The music industry also has a lot to offer in terms of breaking styling stereotypes. Elvis Presley was one of the early male icons to wear eye makeup, a conventionally feminine accessory. In the year 1969, Mick Jagger from the infamous band Rolling Stones was a pioneer in androgynous fashion as he wore a dress to one of his concerts. David Bowie is yet another musician we can’t ignore when it comes to androgyny.

Top 10 Androgynous Clothing Brands

Here are my 10 favorite androgynous clothing brands you should check out!

• Wildfang
• Olderbrother
• Telfar
• Big Bud Press
• Too Good
• TomboyX
• One DNA
• Riley Studio
• Black Crane
• Eckhaus Latta

1. Wildfang

Based in the United States, this brand defines itself as “tomboy chic”. Their line includes apparel for women that rejects societal femininity standards and provides clothing to badass women. It was founded in 2011 by Emma Mcilroy, Taralyn Thuot and Julia Parsley. These three women did a wonderful job creating unorthodox clothing for women.

• WILDFANG | Home for badass women
  F*cking with gender stereotypes since 2013. Because a woman should wear whatever the hell she wants.

2. Olderbrother

Although a bit on the pricy side, Olderbrother is an all-gender inclusive brand. It is known for using natural dyes and organic fabrics. What makes this brand stand out is their care for the environment and concern regarding the fast fashion industry. Their pieces are ethically made, vegan and cruelty free.

• Olderbrother
  Olderbrother is a playful, eco-sustainable, naturally dyed, gender-neutral contemporary collection from Portland for the slow fashion revolution.

3. Telfar

A self-taught designer named Telfar Clemens felt the need for gender-neutral apparel and so this brand came into existence. All of the pieces and products that they sell are meant for people regardless of where their identity lies on the gender spectrum. Their motto is “not for you, for everyone.”

• Shop Telfar
  Telfar is the eponymous menswear line of fashion prodigy and international celebrity Telfar Clemens. For Collections, Stockists, Videos and more information.

4. Big Bud Press

If you are someone who loves bright and vibrant colors when it comes to your outfits, this is the brand for you. Big Bud Press deviates from the usual neutral tones associated with androgynous clothing and provides a wide range of radiant hues. Their line is also size inclusive and provides clothing for plus-size androgynous individuals.

• BIG BUD PRESS
  

5. Too Good

A brand started by the collaboration of two stylish sisters, Erica and Faye, has provided fashionable clothing for every gender identity. They mostly deal with outerwear in their products but "embrace individuality” according to the sisters. They are based in London and have a very practical line for everyday wear.

• Welcome to Toogood
  Toogood is a contemporary British brand creating clothing, furniture and objects.

6. Tomboyx

Looking for gender non-conforming undergarments? Well, look no further because Tomboyx has got what you need. They are affordable and provide a range of bras, underwear and even swimsuits. The brand is targeted toward nonbinary individuals but anyone can wear their pieces. Another reason to consider this Seattle based enterprise is that the undergarments are sustainably made!

• TomboyX | We Fit You
  TomboyX is high quality apparel made for comfort and confidence with sizes from XS - 6X. We fit you. Browse our collections of bras, underwear, loungewear, pajamas and swim; made by tomboys for tomboys everywhere.

7. One DNA

One DNA is a clothing line whose primary objective is to provide clothing for everyone. If you decide to purchase something from them, you won’t have to worry about size, gender, age or any other restrictions that other fast fashion brands put on you. As their name suggests inclusivity is their number one goal when it comes to their clothing line. The brand started from the big and bustling city of New York.

• One DNA — Gender-Neutral Goods
  Shop the Women Are Powerful and Yesterday Today Tomorrow collections for a good cause, plus a range of clothing, accessories, and other goods.

8. Riley Studio

For my people who love to hit the gym, there is good news for you. Riley Studio is an active wear brand that accessories and gym wear for gender fluid and non-binary folks. And best of all they use recycled material. We love a brand who's conscious of the environment and breaks gender norms!

• Riley Studio | Sustainable Clothing | Ethical Fashion
  Through carefully considered design, Riley Studio focus on creating products that are made from waste materials and natural fabrics producing Sustainable Clothing and Ethical Fashion.

9. Black Crane

Some days we just value comfort in our outfit more than anything else. But with Black Crane you won’t have to resort to the poor choice of sweatpants. Stay comfy yet chic with Black crane’s genderless apparel. It is labeled as clothing for women but the clothes themselves are very much for everyone. You can stay comfy while still not looking like a total mess.

• Black Crane
  Black Crane, by Alexander Yamaguchi and Momoko Suzuki, focuses on a silhouette that complements supple lines and comfort.

10. Eckhaus Latta

The name of this brand may be a bit hard to approach but the brand in itself is the complete opposite! They want to make people from all parts of society feel included and cared for. They are strongly against any kind of marketing strategy that “makes people feel small”. You can find fabulous gender non-conforming attire at Eckhaus Latta.

• ECKHAUS LATTA
  Eckhaus Latta SS20 Delivery One Now Available. Free Domestic Shipping on Orders over $250. Shop Now.

Summary

In the coming times, we can foresee gender and fashion’s conventional standards completely shattered. As with every decade, this decade will also bring new trends and let go of some older ones. The fashion industry is gradually but surely progressing into a new and inclusive era. Celebrities like Lady Gaga, Ellen DeGeneres, Jaden Smith, Harry Styles, and Ruby Rose are some of the new age icons that embrace androgynous styles of clothing. And boy do they look fabulous while doing it! It is time to shed the rigid concepts around fashion and gender once and for all. Androgynous fashion encompasses something for everyone! So, what are you waiting for? Go get some dashing new outfits from an androgynous brand of your choice.

© 2021 Muriel B Tewes

Susan enjoys travel, art, writing, and natural products. She lives in Kent, just outside of London.

How to Cut Jeans Straight to Make Shorts

If you have an old pair of jeans that you don't wear any more, make them into a pair of shorts. You can create knee-length shorts, mid-thigh ones, Daisy Dukes, roll-up hems, or frayed edges—it is entirely up to you. Stop wasting jeans that are no longer in style and save money too.

Cut Off Jeans With a Turned Up Hem

#1 - Decide on Your Style

To make cut-off shorts fit correctly, you need to take a few minutes to prep. Before you start, think about what you want the finished shorts to look like.

• Decide how far up the leg you want the shorts.
• Do you want a turn up?
• How deep of a turn up do you want?

This is important because it will affect how much you cut off the legs.

I made my husband a pair of denim shorts that he wanted just above the knee, and with a turn up of an inch (2.5 cm).

#2 - Try Them on and Pin Them up

Try the jeans on and get someone else to place a pin where the finished shorts should sit on the front of the leg.

Now, if you want a turned up hem, place a second pin further down the leg to allow for the turn up. So, if you want an inch (2.5 cm) turn up, then place this second pin 2 inches (5 cm) lower down to allow enough fabric for the hem to roll over twice.

If you want to leave the hem raw and frayed, you only need to allow an extra 1/2 inch (1 cm) as raw edges usually curl up a little.

#3 - Turn Your Jeans Inside Out

• Carefully take the jeans off, leaving the pins in place.
• Now turn the jeans inside out.
• Make sure the crotch seams are level.
• The waistband should not be level, the back waistband should be a lot higher than the front waistband. See picture. This is important.
• Smooth the jeans out so they lie flat on a table or floor.

Flatten Your Jeans Carefully Before You Cut

#4 - Cut the Jeans Down

Using a good pair of sharp scissors, cut the pinned leg in a straight line. The cut should be angled to go up slightly at the outside leg seam. Only about an inch higher at the outside seam to the inside seam.

Once cut, fold the jeans carefully in half and mark the uncut leg with pins. This is to make sure both legs are the same length, and are cut at the same angle. Now cut the second leg to match.

Finish the Hem on Cut-Down Jeans

If you want a turn up on the legs of your cut off shorts, you have finish the hem as follows:

• Fold the hem up once on each leg and iron it flat.
• Then turn the hem over again and iron again. Take your time to make sure it is neat and even.
• Sew a few small neat stitches at each seam, inner leg, and outer leg, to hold the turn up in place. There's no need to sew along the whole hem as it should stay up once it's ironed.

If you want a frayed and raw hem, just pull a few strands of cotton out along the cut edge. If you want an uneven hem, chop a few pieces out but don't make them too big. You can always make a few more cuts if you want more. Wearing and washing your new shorts will fray the edges naturally.

Distress Your Cut-Down Shorts

If you want your shorts to look aged, worn and distressed, then you can achieve this yourself and make a unique piece of clothing. Put your shorts on and mark places where you want holes or cuts while you are wearing them to make sure they end up correctly placed.

1. Sandpaper them. Take a clean piece of rough sandpaper and rub hard on places where you want a worn out look. Sandpaper quickly breaks the denim threads and this effect looks good around pocket edges and along seams. The longer you rub, the more threads you will break so stop often and check what you are doing.
2. Use a razor blade to cut slits in a few places. Be very careful of your fingers and any piece of furniture you might be leaning on. Pairs of small slits look good. Don't make the cuts too long because the shorts will completely lose their shape.
3. Scrape scissors back and forth in areas to make distressed patches.
4. Use bleach if you want to fade the colour. You can dilute bleach in water and lay your shorts down flat to make an even fade all over. Make sure you wash the shorts after 20 minutes or so to stop the fabric rotting in the bleach. You can also splatter neat bleach in areas of your shorts by dripping the liquid from a large spoon. Take care not to get the bleach on carpets or floors in the process. To fade just some areas of the denim, like the front of the thighs, rub bleach on with an old rag and leave for a few minutes before washing.

© 2017 Susan Hambidge

I am a thrifty housewife who loves making old clothes wearable again.

Choosing a Pair of Jeans

I pulled a pair out of my closet that I no longer wear because they're sagging in the back. These kinds of jeans are perfect for shorts because shorts are made with a little extra room in the back (as opposed to skinny jeans). You can use old jeans that feel good around the waist but loose around the butt, or you can buy a cheap pair from the thrift store to turn into a great pair of shorts!

What You'll Need

• A pair of jeans
• Fabric scissors (don't use regular scissors!)
• A sewing machine (optional for the fold-over hem, but I highly recommend it)

For the Fold-Over Hem

• A colored pencil (i used white against my blue jeans) or a fabric pencil
• Fabric glue
• An ironing board and an iron
• Something to measure with (I used a sewing gauge, but you can also use a ruler)

For the Scalloped Hem

• A pen
• A cup

1. Choose the Length of Your Shorts

Put the pants on and look in a full-length mirror. Decide how long you want the shorts, then make a mark (make the mark 1 1/2" below that point with the pencil for the fold-over hem; make the mark at that point for the scalloped hem). I draw a line all the way around for reference. You only need to draw the line on one of the legs; the other leg will be cut based on the length of the first leg.

2. Cut the Shorts

Next, lay the jeans out flat on a table. Cut the leg that you drew the line on, cutting through both the front and the back of the leg at the same time. Then, fold the jeans over and make sure you line up the two legs perfectly. Cut the second leg, so it has the same length as the first leg you cut. NOTE: Take the time to actually lay the legs out completely flat (see image two). Otherwise, your legs will have different lengths.

3. Finishing the Hem

Now that you've cut the shorts to the right length, you'll need to follow specific instructions depending on which hem you would like your shorts to have.

Fold-Over Hem (No Machine Required)

OPTIONAL STEP: If you want to avoid fraying, use a sewing machine and zigzag stitch around the bottoms of the shorts (see image one). Again, this is optional, but if you have a sewing machine, I recommend you take the time to do it.

Fold the bottom of the shorts over (see image two). Then, using the gauge, ruler, etc., iron the shorts so that there is a 1 1/2" hem (see image three). When you've ironed the fold well, unfold it, and you'll see a crease around the shorts (see the crease in image four).

Now, fold the bottom up again, but this time only fold up about 1/2" (use the ruler to guide you...see images four and five). Iron on this fold being careful not to iron over the crease you already made (see image five). When you're finished ironing all the way around, keep the small fold and fold the bottom up again using the crease you made before (see image six). You'll have a cute little fold on the bottom of your shorts.

Next, take the fabric glue and slowly glue the folds down (see image seven). I suggest putting the glue on the 1/2" section because that will hold the best. Make sure you don't use too much glue, but do put glue all the way around; otherwise, there will be holes in your hem. Let it dry as you go, being careful not to undo what you've glued. When you're finished, repeat this step on the other leg (see a completed leg in image eight).

Scalloped Hem (Machine Required)

Use a cup to draw the scalloped edge onto the shorts. Line the cup up to the very edge of the shorts and draw a half-circle (I used a pen; you really need to be able to see the marks clearly, see images one and two). Go all the way around one leg. You may have to adjust the width of some of your half-circles to get the scallop to go all the way around the edge.

When you've finished marking both legs, use fabric scissors to carefully cut along the lines you drew (image three). Then, using the sewing machine, zigzag stitch around the edge of the shorts. Go very carefully as you'll need to move the shorts and re-position the sewing needle in order to get a clean stitch around the bottom (see image four).

NOTE: If the tension on your machine is too high, the scallops will curve up a little bit (like flower petals). If this happens, simply iron the shorts out when you need to. You may want to use one of the pant legs you discarded to test the tension. Remember, every fabric handles a machine differently!

And You're Finished!

Congratulations! You've just made a totally cute pair of shorts out of an old pair of jeans! Embellish the shorts to your liking and wear them with the confidence of knowing you made them yourself :)

© 2017 Brigette Anne Henry

Matty is a Fashion and Beauty Consultant. Started her skin care business in 2018 to offer naturally based and non toxic products.

Dressing modestly requires that you dress without exposing too much of your body. It also requires that you wear clothes that are not too tight. When it comes to pants, I have come up with three basic rules to wear them in a modest way.

Although some people find that it is best to avoid pants altogether, for me, that is not a choice. This is why I came up with ways I could wear them without exposing too much. The following rules have helped me, but feel free to adjust them to your needs.

Rule #1: Layer

Dressing modestly often requires that you wear different layers of clothing. This is especially true with pants. By layering, you can make sure you cover those areas you don't want to be exposed. The types of pants you can use with layers are tights and tight-fitting pants. However, you can basically wear any type of pants with layers.

How to do it:

• Make sure you have plenty of long shirts or dress blouses, long vests or sweaters.
• You will wear the long/short shirt followed by your long vest or sweater.

Rule #2 : Choose Loose

When purchasing pants, opt for styles that are loose-fitting. This is the perfect way to avoid wearing too many layers. You may still choose to wear a long blouse on top of your loose-fitting pants. If you are petite, make sure you get the right length. Also, when wearing loose pants, make sure you wear high heels that compliment your style. Don't make your pants the centerpiece of your style.

Rule #3: Wear Pants With Short Dresses

My third rule is to wear pants with a short dress—my favorite option of all three. Sometimes you find cute short dresses, but you can't wear them because of the length. Wearing pants eliminates the problem of showing too much of the legs.

In the photo below, you will see how I paired some lovely black tights and boots with a short dress.

I have done this with jeans as well. Don't be afraid to try this option, as it is super easy.

Your Choice

© 2017 Matty Navarro

Comments

Ruby Jean Richert from Southern Illinois on March 24, 2017:

I would never think of wearing a short dress over pants, it's a cute idea! Thank you...

Sam is the mother of two young boys, Juju and Blaze. Their family enjoys going on trips, crafting, learning, and exploring.

How to Bleach Jeans

Shopping for boys is sometimes rather frustrating here in the states. While girls get loads of styles, colours, and accessories to choose from, boys are usually stuck with only a few choice colours and styles of clothing. It gets a bit boring after a while as a mom with two boys to shop for.

So, I've decided to start creating my own fashion and accessories for my sons. I started with their costumes (including Angry Birds Hoodies which they love to wear on the regular) but am now focused on daily fashion items. This is the first of, what I hope to be, a series of DIY fashion articles. The tutorials apply for all but will be using my sons' clothing as examples.

I hope you enjoy this tutorial and if you have any questions or requests for future tutorials please let me know in the comments below!

Step 1: Get Your Supplies

Supplies

• a pair of jeans
• rubber bands or plastic hair ties
• bleach or bleach cleaner
• a plastic bin (unless you are working in the bathtub like I did)
• plastic gloves

Optional

If you want to distress your jeans, you'll also need:

• scissors
• tweezers

Types of Denim

Now, the jeans I used were affected by the bleach differently. The first pair began to fade as soon as I sprayed it with the diluted bleach. However, the second pair barely faded at all until I used undiluted bleach. Here are some notes on the pairs of pants I used that may help you determine how your pants will react.

The first pair:

• Children's Place Original Brand Est. 1989
• 100% Cotton
• Made in Cambodia
• feels lighter, softer, and thinner than the other pair, hand me downs so they've been around awhile

The second pair:

• sonoma life + style
• 100% Cotton
• Made in Nicaragua
• thicker, stiffer, and newer than the other pair

Step 2: Prep Your Jeans

Tying rubberbands to the jeans will create a tye-dye flowering effect when you bleach them. I decided to work on two different pairs of jeans. On the first pair I tied my first rubber band at the foot of the jeans, rolled it, tied another rubber band, rolled it, then tied another, and so on. On the second pair I started at the hip, rolled it, and worked my way down the pant leg.

I used Scunci's rubber hair ties to tie up my pants. They're really tough and never stretch or snap.

Step 3: Bleach

There are many ways you can go about bleach your jeans. I did not bleach them the way that is depicted in the above video, though that is what I was inspired by. Instead, I placed them in my bathtub and sprayed them down with my bleach spray bottle.

As I mentioned, by second pair of jeans did not take to the spray bleach very well, so after a half hour of letting them sit I poured some undiluted bleach to them.

As you can see from the pictures, I did one pant leg at a time. I loved how the design came out on the second pair (sonoma jeans), but wasn't thrilled with the first pair (Original Brand). So I repeated the process I used on the sonoma jeans to the other leg of the Original Brand jeans (spray diluted bleach then pour some regular bleach).

Step 4: Rinse and Wash Jeans

I let my pants sit for about an hour. You can leave it for more, but keep in mind that the longer the material stays in bleach the weaker it will be, holes may even appear. After, I removed the rubber bands I rinsed the jeans in cold water then threw them in a cold wash in my mini washer. Then left them out to dry.

How to Distress Denim

Step 5: Distress Them

I wasn't too crazy about how the first pair of jeans turned out so I tried out some distressing. Still not entirely pleased with them, so I will probably try some other things with them until I'm happy. My method of distressing is the same as what is depicted in the video above.

Full-Bleach Pant Leg

I was really unhappy with the results of one of the jeans, so I decided to bleach one entire side of the jeans. I just placed the pant leg in a basin with 1 part water, 2 parts bleach and let it sit until all the colour from the pant leg was bleach away. Then I rinsed and washed as I did before. The results were a lot more pleasing with a mostly solid white leg on one side and a spot bleached other side. The effect makes me think of a white fluffy cloud passing through.

Questions, Comments, Requests

I hope this tutorial was helpful! Please feel free to post your questions, comments, and requests in the comment box below.

Middle-aged women are forgotten about by retailers. I offer help with clothing choices, skincare, and healthy eating for the mature woman.

Which Jeans Suit Older Women

Ladies, do you ever wonder if you're too old to wear jeans? I must admit the thought has crossed my mind as well, but then I think, 'Heck no, I love wearing jeans!'.
The doubt often starts when we see a photo or video of ourselves then a reality check sets in. We tend not to see a problem area on our bodies as the changes to our shape are gradual and creep up on us over the years. So what can we do about it if we refuse to give up wearing jeans? It isn't that we're too old to wear them; we need to adjust the style to suit our changing body shape because the design that once worked for us may not be the right cut for us now.

Never before have there been so many styles, makes, and adornments to jeans. If the original makers of jeans, Levi Strauss and his partner Jacob Davis, could see what has become of their initial idea, I think they would shake their heads in disbelief. The robust and reinforced pair of work pants for the Californian gold miners have become a fashion statement often sold with holes and rips in them and cost more than a miner would have earned in a month panning for gold!

How to Get the Perfect Fitting Jeans

Unlike men, who buy jeans solely by the waist and leg measurement, women need more information. This might work if we were all in the same proportions but think about the women you know; how many are shaped the same? Not that many, I suspect. You may wear the same size as your friend, but everyone has lumps and bumps in different areas. Throw in personal taste, and you can see that we need more options to find our ideal pair of jeans. For some women, choosing jeans is a minefield, with all the new terminology, jargon, and some might say utter nonsense. My goal with this article is to clarify some of the confusion surrounding jeans. I have contacted my nephew, who works at a large fashion house in San Francisco, for the latest information.

To get the correct fit, you need to look at the waist rise, the upper leg, and the lower leg. Using these three, you'll be able to select the perfect pair of jeans whether you're 35 or 95 years old or somewhere in between.

Times have changed since you first starting wearing jeans. Then, it's likely there was one waist height or 'rise' as it's now called. Now, it's possible to walk into a store and find jeans with a waist rise anywhere from the navel to ones that barely cover the pubic hairline.

Short Waist, Long Waist or Normal?

When buying jeans, we may think about our hips' shape, condition of our abs, or length of our legs, but there is more to it than that. Knowing if you have a short or long waist is a factor to consider when choosing a pair of jeans. Here is how to determine which category you fall into.

• Measure the distance from your armpit (A) to your natural waist (W).
• Then measure from your waist (W) to your bottom of your buttocks (B).

If the distance from armpit to waist is less than the distance from your waist to buttocks, then you have a short waist. Sometimes this is called a high waist.

If the measurement is longer, you have a long waist or sometimes referred to as a low waist.

Here's the equation:

• B=buttock
• W=waist
• A= armpit
• A/W>W/B= Low waist or long waist
• W/B>A/W= High Waist or short waist
• W/B=A/W= Balanced or regular waist

Now that you know this, you are in a better position to select a pair of jeans that will suit you.

For women with a short waist, stay away from high-rise jeans. The visual effect is that your jeans begin in your armpits, not the look we want. The fact that our breasts are also lower makes for a bad combination. On a positive note, having a short waist generally means your legs are longer or at least appear longer. Opt for jeans that are a normal or a low rise as this will lengthen the torso's look, creating a visual illusion that the top and bottom are equal.

For those who have a low waist selecting a pair of jeans with a higher rise will give the illusion that your legs are longer.

For those whose measurements were equal, you can wear either high or low-rise jeans depending on your preference and the overall look you're trying to achieve.

Caution

Although one can choose a pair of jeans with a low rise, caution should be exercised, because unless you are the queen of sit ups or planks at the gym, these should be left for the younger ladies, in my opinion. If you have a mummy tummy, or love indulging in bakery goodies leave these for the 0 size models. Unless you have a flat stomach, low-rise jeans allow the skin on the abdomen to flop unceremoniously over the top of the jeans resulting in what is often called a muffin top.

Jean Fits Demystified

The jargon surrounding the fit of jeans is confusing. Let's clarify the meaning of some of the terminology. Remember, all manufacturers do not classify their jeans the same.

• Jeggings: A relatively new term that is a combination of jeans and leggings. Jeggings are just leggings made to look like denim jeans. If you are a fan of leggings, then maybe these are the ones for you. Unless you have a firm tush and flat abs, opt for a hip-length top such as a free-flowing blouse or longer style t-shirt. If the stiffness and thickness of denim have kept you from wearing jeans, try jeggings.
• Skinny: These are tight from the waist, across the thigh, and taper down to the ankle. Skinny jeans look best on people who are slim and have a balanced or normal waistline. With a bottom that isn't too large or too flat. If you carry weight around your abdomen, then wearing skinny jeans will only emphasize this into what is commonly called a muffin top. Skinny jeans will not make you look skinny!
• Slim: Fits close to the body, although not as snug as skinny jeans, are narrow. These are generally slim at the waist and through the thigh but not necessarily tapered.
• Relaxed /Straight: These are comfortable at the hip and fall straight. This style is the most popular among mature women, as this style suits most figure types.
• Boot cut: These can be a high, mid, or low rise with a slim fit through the thigh flaring out at the bottom to accommodate boots. This style is my personal favorite.
• Boyfriend jeans: You may have been married for 30+ years, but you can still wear boyfriend jeans. So just what are they, and will boyfriend jeans suit the mature woman? The answer is definitely because boyfriend jeans are a bit baggy or loose-fitting, somewhat worn in, and just plain comfy. The idea of some marketing guru, these relaxed-fitting jeans are supposed to be ones that we have borrowed from our boyfriend. They are assuming our boyfriend is roughly about the same size as us and the same height. Usually, they are also straight leg and a normal rise.
• Tapered: These are full at the hip and narrow towards the ankle. These can be flattering for many women in either jeans or regular pants.

Top Tips for Jeans

More Useful Words Associated With Jeans

Besides the fit of jeans, there are other useful words to be aware of when buying a pair of jeans. Some of these are used to describe the treatment the jeans underwent at the manufacturers.

• Whiskers: These are the faded lines which run from the crotch towards the outer leg. Often there will be several on either side. They're called this because they look similar to a cat's whiskers.
• Distressed: This will be jeans which are ripped or have the appearance of being well worn. Again, in my opinion, these are best left for the younger generation. In fact, I could never bring myself to pay for anything that would have been fit for only rags when I was growing up.
• Stone washing: This process is done with pumice stones. These are the same type of stones you use to remove rough skin from your feet. The manufacturers wash the jeans with these to give them a worn-in and roughed up look.
• Worn-in: This effect can be seen on the thighs, the back of the knees and on the seat of the jeans. This is a slight lightening which is produced by artificial means.
• Rail tracks: These are the faded lines that run down the outer double stitched seam of the leg. It resembles a train track, hence the name.
• Vintage: This is a term which is used a couple of different ways. These can be jeans which are genuinely old or in a 'Vintage' style. Manufacturers are quick to jump on the latest phrases if it helps sell their jeans. However, the term vintage means 25+ years old.

Various Jeans Brands

I have looked through various jeans manufacturers to see how they class their jeans. I looked at traditional brands Levis, Lee, and Wrangler. Plus Pepe, Hilfiger and Diesel to compare what you can get. The upshot of this is most of these brands carry the various waist rises and different fittings through the legs although there is a gray area between what some call skinny, slim and straight. As always sizing is all over the place so it is best to try it on or, if buying online, read the reviews to see if it is true to size. If you are buying from Amazon and the size isn't right, they are easy to return.

Jeans:The most versatile item in a woman's wardrobe

A Love of Jeans

I have loved jeans for as long as I can remember so when the chance came to visit the Levi factory in San Francisco, on a school field trip, I jumped at the chance. I was taking sewing classes in school and together with a handful of other students we boarded the bus to San Francisco.

I assumed it was going to be an ultra-modern building full of people whizzing away on machines. As I recall it was more personal than that, as we had a guided tour with a representative from the factory. With a pile of denim about 18" on the table in front of us, we watched as the machine cut through the fabric. We walked past industrial machines, rivets, and large spools of thread until we saw the final product. To me, I had the feeling that things hadn't changed much since they first started. It was in an older building which had housed it for quite some time. It didn't have the feel of a designer's studio, it had the feel of tradition.

Footwear for Jeans

If you wonder which footwear goes with jeans, the answer is virtually any type depending on the style of jeans.

Boots, such as ankle boots, desert boots or cowboy boots are perfect with a boot cut style of jeans, obviously. But a pair of boots also can look good with slim fit or skinny jeans team as well with rolled up jeans as in the image above.

Wear skinny or slim jeans inside boots such as Ugg's or knee high boots This avoids the excess fabric escaping. See the first video on this page for instructions on how to fold over the pants leg for straight jeans.

Ballet flats and plimsoll style shoes also look fanastic with straight or slim jeans.

Slim and skinny jeans team well with heels such as stilettos or wedges, if you have the body and the legs to pull it off.

Author's Opinion

There is an old saying, mutton dressed as lamb. Just because we can fit into these clothes, doesn't mean we should.

Some of us, who are mature, have better bodies than many women half our age. That doesn't mean we have to flaunt it. Confidence comes from within and doesn't need to be cinched in, strapped up and made to look like we are 30 years younger. Maturing means feeling comfortable with ourselves and our clothing choices.

I will say, many of the salespeople in stores, which specialize in selling jeans, know their stuff. Of course, they want to make a sale, but they realize that if you're happy with your choice, you'll be back.

I remember going into a GAP store in the UK. The young man, enthusiastically came over to help me. He looked me up and down and recommend a couple of different styles and sent me to the dressing room. When I emerged, he cast a knowing eye across the jeans, requesting me to turn around so he could examine all the lines. He put his hand to his chin and paused. He was mentally going through the stock of jeans. “Just a second,” he said and sped away.

He passed me a pair of jeans as though it was his firstborn child and said, “try these.” They were perfect.

I hope this article has given you the confidence to continue wearing jeans, and a little bit of knowledge of the latest buzz words and modern phrases.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

Questions & Answers

Question: Are lighter colored jeans OK for women 60 and over, or should we stay with dark blue?

Answer: It is really down to personal choice. It's always said that darker colors are more slimming, but there are many women who are already slim and don't need to worry about a color to enhance their shape.

I live in Brazil, where women of all sizes wear what they want. It is refreshing to see women who are confident enough to wear anything they like without fear of people staring at them.

You can wear whatever color you like as long as you are okay with your choice. If someone else doesn't like it, that is their problem.

Question: I am an older woman with an apple-shaped body and a flat bottom. What jeans would you suggest I wear?

Answer: That is also my shape. If my weight goes up, it is around my tummy area.

If your flat backside is a problem for you, then there are a few options. One is to wear padded panties; these will give your derriere more definition. Jeans with large rear pockets with help disguise the lack of fullness. Often you can find jeans with large decorative stitching on the back pockets.

If neither of those options appeals, longer shirts are stylish.

You don't mention if you are high waisted or not. For an apple shape, I wouldn't go for a low rise pair, as any excess around the tummy area will spill out.

Also, you cold try a relaxed fit or a normal rise bootcut style.

Question: My daughter says that I wear “Mom” jeans. What style of jeans should I wear if I’m sixty-four?

Answer: There is nothing wrong with wearing "Mom" jeans. In fact, some labels even call them that. Usually, they are a higher rise. I would suggest you go shopping with your daughter and see if the type she "thinks" would be suitable for you are.

Two things might happen, you'll love the new style, or she will stop mentioning your current one.

Question: When going by the size charts, should you go by the waist size or the hip size? My waist is 32" and hips are 38". Size charts never seem to match my measurements.

Answer: It sounds like you are having a few problems. You don't say what style you prefer or how you like them to fit.

However, I have just checked on Amazon and Levi's do various styles that come pretty close to the size you need. I prefer to not have them too tight in the hips so a little Lycra can help. Also don't think you have to stick with one brand or one size. Also have a look at the junior's jeans, curvy jeans, and yes even Men's jeans. Levi do a 505 for men that measures, 31.5-32" for the waist, and the seat 37.5-38".

In the search for the perfect pair of jeans, no stone should be left unturned.

Question: My biggest problem with buying jeans is swollen knees. Even if the jeans would fit my waist and hips, they are too tight through the knees to get them up. I find my selection very limited, having to rely on "wide leg" in dark colors. Any suggestions?

Answer: It is a problem but you already know one of the solutions, the wide leg. There is nothing wrong with the wide leg look. In fact, some styles are quite elegant. Palazzo pants for example are comfortable and can look stylish and some come in a lightweight denim. So they look great and are comfortable.

Also consider cropped jeans/pants. These can hit anywhere from just below the knee to just above the ankle. The circumference around the knee is often wider than a normal pair of jeans.

You don't say what size you are but there are some plus size jeans that are wider around the knee.

Depending on how curvy you are, don't discount wearing men's jeans. Wrangler do a relaxed fit for men that is much wider around the knee than the ladies' relaxed fit.

I'm confident there is a pair of jeans out there with your name on it!

Question: I have a very unique body type! I’m 5’2” with a 32” inseam. I’m short waisted and wear a 2 or 4 size. The best fit for me is by NYDJ or Wit and Wisdom brand. Also Calvin Klein is wonderful at offering inseam length in all sizes! Do you know of other brands that would fit me?

Answer: I'm glad you've found makes that suit you. Also, TheMogan have a pair you might like.

You don't say if part of the need for a 32" inseam is to accommodate heels. If it is, then you could use skinny jeans that end at the ankle and wear heels.

© 2016 Mary Wickison

Comments

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on May 05, 2019:

Hi Liz,

It can be frustrating when manufacturers cancel our favorite lines. I have seen some NYDJ size 20 boot cut jeans on Amazon. They are called 'Barbara Bootcut'. I'm not sure if it is the same style you like. You can access it from the Amazon link in this article, and type in NYDJ Bootcut size 20. If you add the word Barbara, that would help as well.

If they do discontinue that style, I would suggest you send a message to NYDJ and ask what style is the replacement. It could be a marketing move, where they change the name but keep the style.

Another option would be to check out eBay, or a factory outlet store. The only other option, is to get a seamstress to cut a pattern to get as close as possible to the shape you love.

Good luck

liz morton on May 04, 2019:

I am 82 yrs old and love jeans--my favorites ever are NYDJ. A bootcut in a size 20.. I wear an 18 but the 20 looks and feels fabulous. I can't find any anywhere. any ideas???? Please NYDJ keep making these for us elderly misshapen women. I will pay top dollar as these jeans last forever and keep there shape. I have many compliments on how I wear them! Help!!!!! I need several pair,

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on March 29, 2018:

Hi Jennifer,

I can tell how exasperated you are by what has happened. When my weight goes up, it goes to the same place, right in my midsection or as my mother used to say, 'the gut'.

If you haven't thrown those jeans out yet, I would suggest you contact a seamstress or if you're handy with the sewing machine you could do it. A good seamstress will be able to open up the waistband and put an extra piece in. Fabric or elastic would work, and if needed she could extend it down into the side seam as well. Mulitple layers of denim take a strong machine, though. If you can't find a seamstress, an upholster will have machines which are more robust.

By doing that, you'll keep the same size in the hips but make the waist more comfortable. Even inserting a V-shape of fabric would work.

Although we think we have to buy what is sold by the stores, with a few modifications, anything is possible.

If you prefer to wear your blouse or shirt tucked in, a belt or scarf at the waist will hide any alterations.

Let me know how you get on.

Jennifer Wasko on March 23, 2018:

Your article was helpful but I have a horrible issue. I'm in my upper forties and suddenly within months this year I gained a bunch of weight and all of that weight and I mean every bit of it is in my stomach and waist. So I just finished clearing out my closet of jeans that don't fit most of which I paid $200 pair for and they still have tags to find that a couple of them still work. As long as they are super low rise but then I have muffin top so I'm forced to wear a huge oversized sweater only. the rest of my body did not get fat so when I'm searching for jeans my waist is 35 in and my hips are only 41. So my hips are a size eight and that's what size I've always been but this way still saying my waist is 35 in and my hips are only 41. So my hips are a size eight and that's what size I've always been but this waist still saying that I need a size 15. I live in the middle of nowhere and I order most everything online. But my waist and hips are such a drastic difference that I can't imagine of ever going to find a pair of jeans fitting. I may be stuck with just wearing the ones that I have with giant shirts or otherwise not wearing them at all. I have put on 30 pounds in my waist. This is the craziest thing ever. Literally every other part of my body is exactly the same. Honestly the only thing I can think of is to continue with low rise or purchase jeans that are six times too large just so they will fit my waist. I'm beginning to think I'm the only one in the world with this problem because I don't see a solution. Other than elastic waist. Quite a big difference from wearing beautiful $200 jeans. Not that I would go out and buy those now but I want them to look reasonable. I did find a pair of Levi's 711 that do button but they aren't that comfortable. If I go up a size in the exact Style I might be okay but I don't enjoy having Muffin Top either so I'm probably a lost cause. I have never known anyone to gain that much weight and it plant itself in only one area of the body.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on February 15, 2018:

Hi Rene,

Unless women have had implant surgery or spend their lives doing squats, we are all going to have a droopy backside. Just because large posteriors are in fashion at the moment, we don't have to kick ourselves for a less than perfect derriere.

If you're concerned and want to add fullness, there are padded panties you can buy. Some have pockets so you can add the pads when required. These will give you a nice shape but not overly pronounced.

Regarding your knees, I would suggest opting for a relaxed fit. These are a little fuller around the knee Or there are some called wide leg jeans. Although stretch jeans are wonderful, they will show, as you've said, any unevenness.If a relaxed fit is still too tight, normal jeans might not be an option.

However, there are styles such as culottes, Capri, and palazzo pants. All of these can be found in chambray which is a denim-like fabric but softer. Plus these types of pants have the wow factor. Let me explain.

We, women, have grabbed our jeans out of habit almost as a security blanket. But there are other women who opt for something to make them stand out in a crowd. Any of those I have mentioned should be wide enough to accommodate your knees. If the compression items you're wearing are socks, then long flowing palazzo pants would be a great choice. They are very feminine and comfortable!

Remember, with most online shops, such as Amazon, they offer free returns so you can try them on at home and get a feel for them.

I hope that helps, let me know how you get on.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on February 15, 2018:

Hi Maureen,

I'm glad you found the information useful. If you really like skinny jeans, then you could always wear them with a flowing hip length top. That will cover up your waist but still allow you to wear skinnies.

Although I love the bootcut style, I have long slender legs and occasionally like to flaunt them. Skinny jeans and heels or boots look great.

However, I am not getting to an age where I choose comfort first.

We all have to reassess our body shapes and our clothing choices as we age. We don't have to wear what the stores suggest but we do have to be honest with ourselves. We have to dress to please ourselves and not others.

Thanks for reading and your comment.

Rene Kruze on February 15, 2018:

My knees are very large and my rear end has "drooped". I wear compression wraps and stretch jeans show every velcro strap. Size 20 is good except for thigh to waist. Please help!

Maureen on February 13, 2018:

Hi Mary, GREAT information. I have tried on more skinnies than I can tell you and can never find one that works. You mentioned that skinnies don't work for certain waistlines - mine happens to be thick and I also measure longer in the legs than in the torso. Your comments helped me to figure out that my figure just isn't right for that type of fit...problem finally solved! I love slim fit jeans and sometimes bootcut which goes along with your advice. Thanks so much for a terrific article and re-assuring what I was discovering about my figure. You clearly stated what I was discovering but couldn't put into categories. Thanks again!

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on November 03, 2017:

Hi Donna,

I'm sorry to hear that. Perhaps jeggings might be better. They are leggings but with a look of denim. Jeans, although I love them, are a lot of thick fabric and if you want a sleek look it can be difficult.

Some women also opt for denim skirts which look great with a pair of boots for winter.

Let me know how you get on.

Donna Rambis on November 02, 2017:

I just can't find the right pair of jeans that will fit me ❤

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on September 20, 2017:

Hi Dolores,

I have quite a few pairs of casual pants with drawstrings. I'm finding waistbands on some pants, very confining and irritating.

Why the hatred of zippers?

I too like leggings as I have a high waist so the longer tops help balance me out.

I say go with what makes you feel comfortable.

Thanks for your comment.

Dolores Monet from East Coast, United States on September 19, 2017:

I enjoyed learning the lingo of jeans as well as your visit to the factory. I must confess to wearing "pull-up" or elastic waisted jeans which works for a person whose weight bounces up and down 10 pounds throughout the year. Too old for low rise and always hated zippers. I will wear jeggings with a mini dress or tunic. As an older woman I wonder how you feel about elastic waists for people who can still stand upright. I know it's pathetic but I don't care about that, as you can see from my photo my clothes don't always match either.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on September 19, 2017:

Hi Mona,

Now that I am in the tropics, I wear jeans less during the day but if we are out in the evening, I wear them.

I think you should go for it, have a day just jeans shopping and see if that past love of jeans is rekindled.

I'm glad my article has given you the confidence to give it another go.

Thanks for your comment.

Mona Sabalones Gonzalez from Philippines on September 18, 2017:

I have not worn jeans for over 10 years, but one thing I can say about your article, it gives me confidence. You make it sound so easy and doable. Thanks so much. I am giving my cupcake another chance, hahaha

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on July 07, 2017:

I too have a flat bottom but have decided, I prefer it. Who wants to be carrying all that excess around behind them? Believe it or not, wearing jeans with large back pockets or ones with a design on the rear pocket helps. Paris Hilton, also has a flat tush, who knew we were in such company! LOL

Your choice of straight jeans is probably your best bet or even a boot cut style.

Thanks for reading and your comment.

AB on July 06, 2017:

I like straight jeans, but I have a relatively big waist for my size (and a flat bottom.)

I'm still searching for great jeans!

BH on January 24, 2017:

The pop up survey you posted on this site before I had a chance to read it just made me crazy. If you want me to like your article you need to back off on the response questions until the end. ARG

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on January 22, 2017:

Hi ljb,

I'm pleased you found it interesting. I think there are many women who don't realize about the height of their waists and how this can affect clothing choices.

Thanks for the Facebook share.

ljb on January 22, 2017:

This is the best article for "mature" women that I have ever read. I especially appreciate the information about short- and long-waisted measurements. THANKS! I have shared your website on Facebook.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on November 29, 2016:

Hi Vespa, sorry for the late reply, I don't know what happened. Straight jeans are a popular choice with many women as they look timeless. Also if you wear nice shoes they don't get lost under a boot cut flare.

Hi Glenis, happy belated birthday to you. Actually both of the pairs of jeans I have here in Brazil are from M & S. I love the Per Una range of clothing. I agree with enjoying a bit of stretch in the jeans, it helps keep the shape and we can still get a nice fit.

Ladies, thanks for reading and also your input about your favorite style of jeans.

Glenis Rix on November 29, 2016:

I'm 69 years old ( as of last Sunday) and I spend most of my waking hours in jeans. Straight leg with a little stretch, from Marks and Spencer, are my preference for a good fit - and they cost a lot less than the best known brands.

Vespa Woolf from Peru, South America on September 18, 2016:

This is a very informative article. I appreciate all the tips on style and cut. It's true that our bodies change over the years and we have to take many factors into account when choosing the right pair of jeans. I prefer straight but not too skinny jeans. Thank you.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on August 02, 2016:

Hi Diana,

It's really down to personal choice. I think with anything if a person feels overweight or carries extra pounds around the hips, a dark color will help to mask this. Small rear pockets also help with this.

I personally don't care for light color jeans. A slight fade is okay but I feel if I have something too light, it looks too worn. I think young women can wear it, but for me, I prefer a light colored top and mid to dark jeans.

Another reason I prefer a darker shade is like yourself, I'm active. I don't wash my jeans every time I wear them. I try and wear them a few times until they get too loose before washing.

I'm glad you enjoyed reading the article, thanks for your visit.

Diana Clarke on July 22, 2016:

Was researching jeans & came across your very interesting article. I was wondering about colour which you didn't touch on, whether light or dark wash. I think I have the cut & style figured out as I have worn them forever, boot cut regular rise, I am only 5'4" and 125 lbs. I also just turned 76 but feel 50 and act 40, retired but still ride horseback, bike, ski and skate. I live in Canada. Still not decided on the colour, light for summer, dark for winter or does it matter ?

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on July 03, 2016:

Hi Susan,

There are some wonderful people working in retail who go out of their way to help.

I think we all are a bit lopsided to be honest with you. There is nothing wrong with wearing an elastic waistband as many of the manufacturers have incorporated this as a feature.

The point is, we as mature women have options above and beyond what the glossy magazines show on their rake thin models.

Good luck to you in sourcing your next pair of jeans.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on June 26, 2016:

Hi Dianna,

We are definitely not too old. I too like the boot cut as I think it is more flattering. Plus I don't like looking down and seeing all of my shoe.

I may be the only one who is wearing them when I turn 90, but wearing them I will be.

Glad you liked the article. Thanks for reading.

Susan Deppner from Arkansas USA on June 26, 2016:

I need your GAP guy to help me find a nice-fitting, comfortable pair of jeans. I have a lopsided figure, so I settle for elastic in the waist. Perhaps your excellent information will help me find something without elastic that would actually work.

teaches12345 on June 19, 2016:

Great article. I wear boot cut myself for the comfort and style. I'm glad to know we are never too old for jeans.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 18, 2016:

Hi Deb,

I have the same problem, but as you say, now we are lucky to have the shape we do. You are right to think that some jeans aren't flattering on those of us with a flat backside.

Selecting a pair of jeans with larger rear pockets will help disguise the lack of a booty. Plus it is much easier to do that then hit the gym for a round of squats.

I am pleased you found the terminology about jeans useful, it can be confusing.

Thank you for reading.

Deb Hirt on April 18, 2016:

Great article. I used to hate it that I had no butt and no hips, but found out in my older years that it was a blessing in disguise. At least now I know what all these terms mean if I see them.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 14, 2016:

I think it is easy to get carried away when you see something new you like. But we have to stop and ask ourselves, 'does this really suit me.' Just because we can buy it in our size, doesn't mean we should.

Thanks for reading, I am pleased you found it interesting.

Chitrangada Sharan from New Delhi, India on April 13, 2016:

Very interesting and informative hub!

I don't wear jeans normally but I loved going through all the information you shared about jeans.

I agree we should dress according to our age. And dressing gracefully is very important. We must understand what suits our personality and should not get carried away by what others are wearing.

Thanks for sharing this informative and interesting hub!

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 13, 2016:

Hi Peggy,

Much of this information also applies to other pants as well. You're right, you have to be comfortable.

Thanks for reading.

Peggy Woods from Houston, Texas on April 13, 2016:

I don't think that I ever owned a pair of jeans. If I did start wearing them I would go for comfort first. I do wear pants however in different styles. You certainly have your jean jargon perfected! :)

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 08, 2016:

Hi Dora,

I hope the lack of jeans in your wardrobe isn't age related. I know my Grandmother never wore trousers until she was over 50.

Here in Brazil, it is so warm I don't wear them much but I just can't part with them.

Dora Weithers from The Caribbean on April 08, 2016:

This is quite an education for me (no jeans in my wardrobe right now). At least, I can upgrade my jeans vocabulary. Very interesting!

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 08, 2016:

Hi Anita,

High rise are preferred by many women specifically because they can flatter us as you say. Thanks for your visit.

Anita Saran from Bangalore, India on April 08, 2016:

Low rise is everywhere and it's been ages. Finding high rise is pretty difficult. But it's so much more flattering for women's bodies - young or mature. Great info.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 08, 2016:

Hi Bill,

I think many women past the age of 40 find it difficult. Clothing manufactures have forgotten about us in their quest to clothe the millennials. We are often left with the choice of clothing which is too young or something only our grandmothers would wear.

Thank you for your continued support.

Bill Holland from Olympia, WA on April 07, 2016:

Well, I'm not really sure what to say about all this mature women clothing stuff.....how about this....I love what you said about having better bodies than the younger generation but not having to flaunt it. Love that line and truth. My advice to attractive women....don't try so hard. When you've got it, less effort in displaying it all is better in many cases. :) For what it's worth.

Have a great weekend!

Maina Ndung'u has been a fashion consultant and blogger since 2015. Fashion is one of her biggest interests.

How to Style Black Leggings

Wearing black leggings is a sure way of staying warm while showing off toned legs. You can dress them up for a more conservative look or dress them down for a daring outcome. Virtually any woman can use these fashion pieces to craft different styles. Unlike patterned varieties, black leggings blend well with many different things to add comfort and style.

Black leggings are not all the same, though: Some are opaque while others are somewhat transparent, but most of them will show through if stretched. Layering is essential because they are more like tights than pants.

Shiny black leggings will not work well for most ladies as they will create bulges whereas the idea is to produce a smooth look. Choosing the best length is also critical. Some outfits will require Capri leggings while others will look better with ankle lengths. While buying calf-length leggings, be careful to determine where they will fall on your legs.

What Top to Wear With Black Leggings

Because black leggings are simple in style, they will go with any top, provided it is long enough to cover your bottom and crotch. Tops to pair with leggings do not need to match with the leggings. Try matching the top to your shoes. To make the look more casual, you may want to wear a belt over your top.

Tunic tops are the first choice for most ladies who love the legging style. They come in a variety of shapes, lengths, and styles. Popular styles include unbalanced hem and side slits. For summer outings, choose striking prints like florals, tie and dye, color block or animal prints. Also try solid bright colors. For evenings or colder weather, choose darker colors like blue, navy or green.

Other tops to wear with black leggings include:

• One shoulder tops
• Lace blouses
• Casual jumpers
• Long camisoles
• Long T-shirts
• Off-the-shoulder tops
• Long tanks
• Graphic tees
• Fashion blouses
• Dress shirts
• Sports jerseys
• Hoodies
• Batwing tops
• Casual blouses
• Tunic knitted T-shirts
• Thermal wicking tops for workouts

In winter, long-sleeved sweaters and cardigans are great. Cascading cardigans are great. To add more warmth, add a polo neck, crewneck, turtle neck or shawl neck underneath. When the weather becomes tougher, it is better to avoid leggings rather than wear longer and longer coats. Leggings do not look good with outfits that cover the knees.

What Shoes to Wear With Black Leggings

Flats look good with black leggings if they are low cut. Neutral colors are easy to pair but you can also experiment with the colored types. Choose from different colors and styles to create a casual or dressed up look. Ballet flats will go better with black leggings if they are black or very dark.

Wearing pumps with leggings can be sensational or old-fashioned depending on how you pair them. Stiletto pumps are a good starting point if you want to try this style. Try ankle-length black leggings with wedge or heeled pumps. Be sure to take the mirror test to see whether the look is good or retro.

How to Wear Black Leggings With Boots

Though black leggings will go with almost all height boots, they look more appealing in tall boots. You can use boots to fashion the look of your legs. When you wear high boots, the focus is not on the leggings but on the boots. For a cool and laid-back look that is comfy and warm, wear any style of flat and tall boots with your black leggings. Avoid boots that clash with your top.

For girls with thin legs, go for calf-length boots. If you have thick legs, choose boots that fall a few inches above your ankle, or where your legs start to widen. Women with wide legs will also look good in boots which do not cling tightly to the legs.

Ankle boots can be problematic when pairing with leggings as they fail to cover the skin below the leggings. They also tend to make legs look thicker and shorter. The best ankle boots with black leggings are those that cover the skin below leggings. If the boots are too short, or the top makes you uncomfortable, use boot cuffs to bridge the gap. Best colors are black or other very dark hues.

How to Wear Black Leggings With Sandals and Sneakers

Sandals are great with black leggings in the summer. They are very comfortable for casual outings. Avoid gladiator sandals unless they are very low with minimal detail. Also match the style of your sandals to the occasion. Wear colorful sandals to spice up your black leggings but be sure they agree with the other clothing.

Sneakers can add fun and liveliness to your black leggings. However, they are not appropriate for formal occasions. Wear them in bright colors to add accent. White, yellow or purple low top sneakers are pretty with dark legwear. For a relaxed but elegant look, wear high tops with a sports jersey, sunglasses and a fancy headgear.

How to Wear Black Leggings Under Dresses

Leggings pair well with most short to midi length dresses. Maxidresses are not fashionable with legwear though you can still wear them to add warmth. Also try long dresses with long side slits. Black leggings under dresses are particularly fabulous for casual summer wear where you are likely to be barefoot.

Dresses pair better with leggings which are tight. Loose leggings can make you look too slack. However, they go with flowy dresses if they agree in style and material. Dresses that you worry wearing to windy areas will be your best bet.

Best dresses to wear with black leggings are:

• Colorful lace dresses
• Wrap dresses
• Tunic dresses
• Sweater dresses
• Stretch casual mini dresses
• Party dresses
• Bowknot dresses
• High low short tee dresses
• Stretch sweater dresses
• Sheer Maxi dresses

If your knees and calves seem to bulge when you wear leggings, try crop leggings with knee length dresses. Above ankle leggings are also okay. This outfit makes your dress appear longer and your calves slimmer.

For just below knee leggings, pair with a mid-thigh dress and flat footwear. If the leggings are mid-calf, choose a dress that is knee-long or shorter. The accessories you wear will depend on your activities and setup.

How to Wear Black Leggings With Skirts

Wearing leggings with skirts gives you the freedom to wear short tops which would otherwise not go well with legwear fashion. Black leggings go well with skirts providing the skirt is the right style and color. Nice skirts include stretch mini skirts and skater skirts. For a good look, choose a skirt length that falls above knees or shorter. If you must wear a midi or maxi skirt, buy one with long side slits.

Almost any color skirt will have an amazing outcome. An all black outfit may be too dark for many women. But petites and plus sizes can pull off this look as it seems to create a streamlined silhouette therefore adding height.

To break the monotony of the all black look, show some skin unless it is cold. Try a camisole, tank, off-shoulder or backless top. Always avoid long tops when wearing hosiery with skirts.

To wear a black skirt with black leggings and a different color top, you can try closely matching your shoes and shirt. For instance, you can wear blue shoes with a blue tank. A white top is difficult to wear with this outfit.

Colorful and printed skirts are great in adding spice to black legwear. Choose a colored skirt and a floral top. Or try a printed skirt and a solid color top. If you must wear both printed blouse and skirt, buy them as a suit cut from the same fabric.

How to Wear Black Leggings in Summer

Wearing skirts and dresses with leggings in the cold months is a common practice. Switching over to outfits with bare legs when the snow melts seems a bit challenging. That is why you need to know how to wear black leggings in the summer.

Cotton leggings are the best in hot weather because they are light and absorbent. Wear them with tops like tunics, T-shirts, tanks or sundresses. Tank dresses and tube dresses are also fine. You can wear any type of shoes depending on the occasion. For evenings, wear sneakers, heels or boots. For casual day wear, choose strappy shoes.

Though black opaque leggings are more comfortable, stretch cotton seems to work better than the thick sports varieties. Though athletic leggings are perfect for the gym, they are not necessarily good for a casual sun-filled outing, or a summer dinner. If you are going to stay outdoors, opt for longer flowy tops in bright colors.

Conclusion

Wear the right accessories with your black leggings outfit. Try experimenting with different types of bags, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. For night-outs, you can make a trial with patterned fishnet leggings or ripped denim shorts over your black leggings.

Whatever clothes you wear with your black leggings, be sure to check yourself in the mirror before going out of your residence. Don’t try to emulate other women as you may not have a body type with theirs. Create your own style for wearing with your black leggings that will make you uniquely and tastefully elegant.

Comments

Allena Risa on August 28, 2019:

Thanks for sharing your ideas with us. Great tips!

Maina Ndungu (author) from Thika, Kenya on April 01, 2015:

Leggings are indeed trendy. But the style depends on individual taste.

There are people who are for wet-look varieties while others are against them. Whatever feels comfortable with you is probably what's best for you.

StealTheirStyle on March 17, 2015:

Love leggings! I can't get enough of wet and leather styles. Thanks for sharing!

Maina Ndung'u is a fashion enthusiast and has been a fashion consultant and blogger since February 2015.

Outfits to Wear With Leggings

Wearing leggings is a fashion that enhances comfort and attracts attention to elegant shoes. They are flattering on the legs because they are completely smooth with no zippers, buttons or pockets. Proper fitting is essential to ensure that the entire legs and bottom look good. Although finding the best things to wear with leggings can be frustrating, virtually all ladies can wear them, provided they put into focus their age, body type and taste.

Leggings come in various styles and patterns, creating different ways of wearing them for almost all seasons and weathers. Though they may look obscure, most types are more aerated than tights and hence discreetly see-through. Lengths also vary from around knee to ankle. Ankle lengths are a favorite to many as they make legs look longer and more slender.

The whole point of wearing leggings is the smoothing effect, and hence trying on different styles to see which ones work best with you should be your first priority. Shinny leggings are probably the most difficult to style. If your legs have flaws, they tend to amplify them. Some Toned varieties also look ridiculously nude unless covered under long clothes.

Whichever variety of leggings that you may choose, finding the perfect outfits to pair with can be a humdrum task. Their versatility can lead to confusion, with the risk of the camel toe effect. But once you find the best outfits to match up, wearing leggings will be adorable and sexy.

Tops to Wear With Leggings

There are so many things that you can wear with leggings and still look cute and sexy. You can use a fancy pair of leggings to jazz up your plain tops. Else, you could beautify a basic pair of leggings with a structured top. If you are petite, choose a top that is no longer than your knees.

A tunic is a favorite top for many ladies who love leggings. They are shapely and come in a variety of materials. Choose a fabric that won’t cling to your leggings. Tunics are also available in diverse styles for different seasons. Petites and plus sizes will look better if they choose the same color for tunic and leggings. Caftan tops are also great if you can match the right colors and lengths.

Loose-fitting blouses are a nice pairing for leggings, especially in the hot weather. Their dressy and feminine nature creates a more sophisticated look. You can craft different looks with the same legwear by wearing blouses in different colors, styles and embellishments. If you can’t find a size that properly covers your bottom, opt for men’s shirts.

Oversized T-shirts give much comfort when combined with leggings. Simple as they seem, they can still be stylish with the right accessories. For a nice outcome, the T-shirt should be barely loose and long enough to hit below your buttocks. If the tee is cropped, layer with a long sweater, cardigan or jacket depending on the weather.

If you’d like to add more flavor to your legs, choose an asymmetrical top. So many creative and pretty designs of these tops have come up in modern fashion. Some are shorter on the sides and longer in the middle (or vice versa), while others are elongated on one side. Tunics are also available in these styles.

Whichever your choice of top, opt for one that is loose. Tight tops seem to over-emphasize your belly, especially if they are tank style. If you need more cover-up, opt for a sweater or cardigan instead of a jacket. If you must wear a jacket, pair your leggings with your skirts or dresses. However, some jacket styles will still go well with legwear.

How to Wear Leggings with a Dress

Many varieties of short dresses are available for pairing with legwear. Mini dresses are more stylish with leggings as they let you show an array of colors rather than your bare legs. This makes you look sexy but allows you the freedom to go out with more comfort.

As with skirts, mini to midi dresses will look prettier with leggings. They can add color and spice to even the darkest or plainest of dresses. Maxi dresses are generally not used to style leggings and tights. They are rather worn in the winter. However, slit maxi dresses may be styled with leggings even in the summer.

It is always a good idea to try on a pair of leggings without the dress first. This way, you will know whether the pair is good for your legs. Leggings that have a smoothing effect will go better with dresses. If they are very slack, they tend to make your legs look shapeless. But they can still go with a voluminous dress if it is in the same color.

Should you want a slimming effect on your legs, opt for a knee-length dress and pair with calf-length leggings. A skater dress will also slim you but will create the illusion of volume to your hips. It is also therefore ideal for ladies with small hips.

How to Wear Leggings with Skirts

In modern day fashion, you can wear a short skirt even if you are aged. But not everyone wants to show their legs. Leggings give you the freedom to wear a sexy outfit but in a modest manner. They also allow you to lean and sit more comfortably in short skirts. This outfit is ideal, especially with flawed legs.

Almost all styles and materials of skirts can go well with leggings. The major issue with skirts is if the fabric clings to the leggings. If both skirt and hosiery are either low-waisted of high-waist, choose leggings with a flat waistband. The same applies if the skirt is high waist and leggins low waist.

Leggings look prettier with casual skirts whose hemline falls to at least mid-thigh. Unless you want to wear leggings as pants, a shorter skirt is not a good option. Due to their laid-back nature, leggings with skirts are not appropriate in professional settings.

To look cute in skirts, try leggings with different lengths, fabrics and styles. Ensure that you choose the best combination of legwear and skirt to avoid looking awkward. You may start with solid leggings and printed skirts, or a plain skirt with fancy leggings. Printed hosiery can make legs look thicker or shorter.

The length of the skirt is normally dictated by the look of your legs. You can choose a shorter skirt if your legs are awesome. But if you get embarrassed in miniskirts, wear a top that hits above your knee, or longer. If you are slim and would like to create the impression of bulk, wear a skater skirt. A maxi skirt is something you should avoid unless it is in winter.

What to Wear Under Leggings

Most leggings are not opaque, and what you wear under might show through. Most people are not content with this, but some consider panty lines as a statement. To avoid this, choose toned or dark undergarments with light-colored hosiery.

Other than the risk of underwear colors bleeding through, it looks bad for big lines underneath leggings. Seamless underwear is perfect because it does not show the panty-line. Thongs, on the other hand, have no lines to show. But some women might find these ones uncomfortable.

Some girls are of the opinion that wearing any type of legwear with nothing under creates a very exciting experience, especially when going out. However, there is the risk of wetting on the crotch in the event of discharge or incontinence. Such a scenario is far worse than showing your panty line. If you wear leggings with no underwear and no long outfit, make sure they are thick and be sure to check their opacity as they age. Wearing a pair to bed with nothing under is up to you.

Another issue that causes the formation of Visible Panty Lines (VPLS) is the pinching of panties under the bottom. This is a result of tight elastic at the leg area of the underwear. If these elastics were to be looser, the knickers would be too loose at the crotch. The best solution is to wear underwear that goes below or above the buttock curvature. Some panties are also shaped to fall directly on the curve but will not dig. Try different styles to see which ones are suited for your shape. Experiment with both high cut and low cut underwear.

Another item that you may wear underneath is shaper underwear. They are usually high-waisted with low-cut legs. These types of inner wear will also work to hide your bulges as they add to the smoothing effect. Boyfriend briefs and boxers will have an almost similar outcome provided they are seamless at the bottom.

Wearing pantyhose under leggings is ideal in cold weather or for sheer style. In winter, you can wear multiple pairs of hosiery to keep you warmer. In today’s fashion world, it seems like leggings are becoming thinner. It makes some sense to wear nude or dark tights underneath. To look more stylish, you can wear fishnet or print leggings with obscure pantyhose under them.

How Not to Wear Leggings

In order to have confidence in what you wear, you must exhibit a sense of caring and dignity. Always wear leggings as leggings and not as pants or trousers. Since most leggings are not truly opaque, it is a good idea to wear tops that are at least mid-thigh in length. These should cover not only your bottom but also your crotch.

Leggings and jackets do not go well together. But if it’s your style or taste to wear jackets, you may still try and see which jackets will look best on you. A bridge-style coat or tunic jacket is worth trying.

While you may try your best not to flash your underwear, unintentional flashing is sometimes possible. This may happen in windy areas or in accidental falls. To avoid embarrassment, take a mirror test with your top hiked-up. To be on the safer side, avoid colorful underwear.

Since leggings are casual clothes, they should be avoided in most formal settings. In the majority of evening occasions, they may also not be considered appropriate. Regardless of the event, don’t wear them if you think they will make you unnecessarily hot.

Choosing the right outfits to pair with leggings is the key to looking stylish in them. Both of them must be in harmony with one another. For many styles, finding a perfect match is a matter of experimenting. While the wrong choices can mar the glamour of the most stylish hosiery, finding what to wear with leggings will result in an adorable and cute look.

© 2015 Maina Ndungu

Comments

Maina Ndungu (author) from Thika, Kenya on February 16, 2015:

Thanks ladies. With these ideas, you can find so many things to experiment with and wear your leggings in diverse and yet stylish ways.

Trudy Cooper from Hampshire, UK on February 11, 2015:

I am the same as Hannah, love my leggings! Love your ideas, well written.

Hannah Moskowitz from New York on February 10, 2015:

I love this! I'm a total leggings freak, but I end up wearing the same things with them over and over because I know one thing that looks good with them and I've been scared to branch out! This has given me tons of ideas. Thank you!

I'm a writer, traveler, and beauty fanatic. I love writing fashion and beauty reviews and how-tos.

What Are Joggers?

Joggers are a very welcome reminder that jeans are not the be-all end-all of women's casual pants. They're not leggings and they're not sweatpants, but comfort-wise, they might as well be. Worn correctly, though, you can wear them anywhere you'd wear a nice pair of khakis, slacks, or a casual dress or skirt.

Joggers can be any material, but what you'll find most often is a thick knit, silk, or leather style. The waistband is usually stretchy, sometimes with a drawstring. They're baggy through the thighs, sometimes with a slightly dropped crotch (but not enough to please M.C. Hammer), and then slim down around the knee to crop snugly above the ankle.

Picking Your Pants

Because they do have a kind of sweatpants vibe, it's important to pick out a pair that doesn't look like you're wearing what you wore to sleep. A bold pattern is a great way to avoid this, as are any colors or details that look deliberate. There are some silk and thin jersey versions that are gorgeous and easier to dress-up.

If you go for a basic color, make sure there's detailing to make them look styled. My favorite pair of joggers is a black pair in a textured fabric with diagonal zipper pockets. The details make them look like pants, not gym-wear black sweatpants.

Choosing a Look

There are endless ways to wear them, but here are a few for an easy cheat-sheet.

Watch Your Proportions

An oversized or large top with jogger pants can make you look shapeless. Aim for a form-fitting shirt that hits right at the waistline of the pants. If you like a little more coverage, go for long and lean or boxy and short, not big all over.

Shoes Make the Look

The most defining part of a jogger look is the shoes; it determines the kind of look you're going for and changes the look from casual brunch to date night or the other way around. You can use the same pair of joggers for a ton of occasions by subbing in heels, booties, ballerina flats, sneakers, or even sandals. Just keep in mind that the higher the heel, the more deliberate the look. Your mileage may vary on whether that's a good thing.

Hair and Makeup

It's crucial when wearing a borrowed-from-the-boys casual piece to take extra time to look pulled together. Joggers aren't the time for a messy bun and a swipe of lip balm, unless you're going the gym (in which case, work it, girl). Putting effort into your makeup makes the world know that you know what you're doing; you didn't accidentally wear sweatpants outside. You're doing something here. Red lip? Cat eye? Now's the time.

Comments

Matty Navarro from New Jersey on May 08, 2017:

I will be trying joggers one of these days.

Hannah Moskowitz (author) from New York on October 27, 2014:

@Realystik my 57 year old mother wears them! And looks FIERCE.

Realystik on October 27, 2014:

My daughter loves these and I will definitely show her your article. Don't think I could pull this off though!!!!!

I'm a college student in North Carolina with plans to get a degree in biomedical engineering and to dream big!

We can't all have the sculpted curves of Heidi Klum and Jennifer Lopez. But if you need a derriere worthy of Pippa Middleton in a matter of days, you'll need more than just an intense squat and lunge regimen to save you.

Here are nine easy tips to give your butt an instant boost!

How to Make Your Butt Look Better

1. Pick the Right Pair of Pants
2. Choose the Correct Waist Size
3. Have the Right Pockets
4. Choose the Right Wash of Jeans
5. Avoid Shiny Fabrics
6. Wear Heels
7. Take the Stairs
8. Avoid Leggings
9. Wear Spanx

1. Pick the Right Pair of Pants

This is the most important tip for making your butt look good. Choosing the right fit is something that has haunted women for decades, but there is no end to the miracles it can work for your backside.

• If you want to accentuate your behind, choose pants with narrower legs. [Note: Narrow does not mean skin-tight all the way down.]
• If you want to make your butt appear smaller, opt for a pair of pants with a slight flare to balance out your shape and draw attention away from your hindquarters.
• Most importantly, choose pants that fit comfortably. Don't get pants that you can't breathe in and don't get pants that sag in weird places. Also, don't get pants that hit right above your ankles just because they make your butt look good. The key to looking good is feeling good—and you won't feel good if your pants don't fit properly!

2. Choose the Correct Waist Size

The rise of your jeans is more important than you think. Today, most people favor the low-rise option. Unfortunately, low-rise jeans don't always favor us back.

Instead, opt for a waistband that reaches your belly button. This style is especially flattering on those of us who have body shapes that are similar to Kim Kardashian's. It makes your derriere look round, but not wide. It's also important to accept the fact that you have more to cover, so naturally, you're going to want something with a higher waist so it can actually cover you!

3. Pants Pockets Can Enhance Your Butt

Did you realize that the placement and size of your pockets have an enormous impact on the size and shape of your butt?

• Oversized pockets are going to make your butt look bigger, and small pockets shrink your behind.
• If you want to draw attention away from your booty, avoid choosing pockets that are embellished or oddly-shaped.
• Pockets that are placed slightly lower on your cheeks give the impression that your butt sits higher.
• Pockets placed far on the outside of each cheek can widen you and add bulk where you probably don't want it.

4. Select the Right Wash for Your Jeans

The wash and rinse of your jeans also play a crucial role in minimizing or enlarging your booty.

• Dark colors are slimming because they create shadow and they don't draw attention.
• A dark indigo will make your butt look smaller and tighter—or at least make it less-noticeable overall.
• If the goal is to keep eyes off of your booty, avoid light denim or white jeans.

5. Say No to Shiny Fabrics

Shiny fabric is a no-go.

• Avoid materials such as satin, taffeta, or silk.
• Shiny fabrics draw attention by showing imperfections and magnifying everything.
• If you don't want to show off your butt like it's a disco ball, just say no to fabric that is shiny.

6. High Heels Make Your Butt Look Good

This is a fact. When you wear high heels, you tighten up the muscles in your legs and glutes so you can balance. It's a forced butt-lift of sorts! The higher the heels, the rounder and more lifted your butt will look.

7. Take the Stairs

Obviously, doing toning exercises like lunges and squats will yield a booty that you can be proud of. But if you don't have time to work your way through weeks of booty boot camp, give yourself a quick boost by taking a few sets of stairs.

8. Avoid Leggings for a Better Looking Butt

Leggings are dangerous territory, so proceed with caution. In sunlight, thin fabrics show dimples, even on the boniest of butts.

They also look better on you in a dimly-lit bedroom than they do out in public, where they can surprise you (and everyone around you) with their transparency. Leggings will look almost transparent under fluorescent or natural light, so be careful!

If you absolutely feel the need to ride the leggings-as-pants train, make sure you give yourself a good hard look in the mirror with the brightest lights on before you walk outside.

9. Spanx It Up

In the most desperate of times, you might just want to slap on a pair of Spanx and call it a day. Spanx can smooth out even the most stubborn bumps. Skinny celebrities sport Spanx on the red carpet too. Don't overlook the value of body control garments; they keep everything from hanging out.

Conclusion

Of course, the most important tip is to be confident with the beautiful body you've got!

These nine tips and tricks will help you the next time you're feeling a little insecure about the junk in your trunk.

© 2014 laurathegentleman

Comments

Ean on April 20, 2020:

I’m a boy with an ass and I want it to be bigger so when I jerk off it’s easier to get hard

WinnifredSullivan on November 30, 2017:

Ladies I advise everyone to get glute booster serum from dermalmd really works I will definitely be ordering it again I was overwhelmed how round and firm how my butt I finally could fit into a nice decent pair of jeans and to be able to look in the mirror and see my butt stick out I was very skeptical but now I am living proof it really works I'm more confident in how I look now

unanimous on November 06, 2017:

Also, if you were spandex on underneath of your jeans, it will give your butt a bigger look.

KaitlynKristy005 on September 01, 2017:

I have been used dermalmd glute booster serum for 3 weeks and saw the result. My butt looks bigger, fuller & rounder,skin is firmer too. Can't wait to see how it grows after 6 months.

I'm well-versed in the manufacturing of designer brand jeans. Here I share my tips with other denim-enthusiasts.

The Skinny on Fake Jeans

Women's designer brand jeans are a hot target for clothing counterfeiters. This guide will help to spot the fakes, find a bargain, and step out in style. We'll be looking specifically at jeans from some premium labels and showing you the correct way to identify if the jeans are real. A common problem women find is that they don't know what a real designer jean looks like. This pictorial guide has actual photographs from genuine jeans, so you have an accurate base to start from.

How to Tell If Designer Labels Are Fake

Common ways of spotting fakes are:

• Missing or wrong printing on labels
• No security devices, like micro-stitching
• Incorrectly stamped riveting
• Poor-quality stitching
• Poor-quality material
• Incorrect inseam length

Fake designer brand jeans are spotted by examining where the counterfeiters have failed to reproduce coloring, style or security devices. It's not enough to find one problem, but rather finding numerous flaws in the clothing which 'adds up' to help you authenticate the jeans.

The Basics

Premium brand labels spend resources in delivering a product which is set to a standard in manufacturing quality. This Quality Control or Quality Assurance [QC/QA] ensures every pair of jeans they produce is identical within a particular product line. This commonality means there are 'clues' within the jeans themselves that point to them being genuine.

Counterfeit jeans are made as cheaply as possible using poor quality materials. With limited budgets to spend on reproducing the internal look and feel of the jeans, the fakers try to mimic the outside of the style of the garments, without worrying about copying what would be inside genuine jeans.

What this means, is fake jeans will have:

• Generic riveting stamped inside
• There won't be as many cloth tags within the jeans
• Zippers and zipper tags will be generic and unstamped
• Inside seams will be shorter to save on textile costs
• Branding patch on the back of jeans made from cheap cardboard

Internals of Brand Jeans

While every manufacturer will have different ways of producing their garments, they generally follow a common structure. Inside labels and panels for the style and size of the jeans will be made with small, close stitched threading. It takes longer to stitch threads close together. This is a sign of quality.

A fake label would have longer stitched threads and longer spacing between them, meaning the garment could be copied faster. The stitching on a genuine pair of jeans will have uniform construction. All inside and outside stitching will be very neat.

Manufacturers may have at least 1 or 2 inside labels denoting style number, or style code. Many labels do not stitch these numbers into the tag. Rather, they are printed onto the tags using screen printing.

This screen printing process takes longer and expends resources the counterfeiters do not have. So fake jeans may have numbers and style codes stitched into the tag. By examining the back portion of a tag, a screen printed style code won't have any stitches directly behind it. It would be plain, with no stitching showing through.

Another sign to having genuine jeans, is the use of propriety fonts by the manufacturer. In the photographs above, one will note the number 2 is shaped almost like a swan. The font is rounded and well-made, with attention to detail paid within the tiny stitching. The second photograph shows the number 3. Again, look how the manufacturer has paid great attention to curve the number.

Counterfeit jeans would not have this attention to detail and could be stitched with straight, rigid lines. The numbers may be thinner and not well rounded or curved as in the examples.

Security Devices

Micro-stitching is a security device and anti-counterfeiting measure used on designer garments. This manufacturing process uses high precision machinery to stitch tiny, near-microscopic threads featuring numbers or letters into tags or labels on the inside of garments.

Many brand label manufacturers use micro-stitching on the label tags as a security feature, such as:

• Diesel Jeans
• Citizens of Humanity
• Seven For All Mankind

Due to the high costs and technical expertise needed to employ such a security device, counterfeiters would not have the ability to reproduce or copy such methods.

The micro-stitching is generally placed on top of a metal foil strip, and can be found near bottom of a tag label. One may need a magnifying glass to closely inspect the micro-stitching.

The following two photographs show a close up of micro-stitching on foil material found at the foot of a label tag. The lettering printed within them is tiny and almost invisible to the naked eye. Jeans featuring this device would almost certainly point to them being genuine.

Not all manufacturers use micro-stitching on their labels. So another clue to authenticating genuine brand label jeans would be to look closely at the zipper hardware and rivets.

Zipper Hardware and Riveting

Rivets on real jeans would almost certainly carry the logo or name of manufacturer on them. In most cases, there will be the symbol, or mark on the inside rivets.

Another key clue to the authenticity of jeans would be on the zipper pull tab and slider. The mark of the manufacturer, or their logo, could be on the zipper. Fake jeans would not have this and would be an unstamped blank zipper tab.

A famous and genuine example of this would be YKK Fastening. The zipper tab would have either YKK stamped on front, but also on rear of the slider, which fastens the zip. To the right are examples of genuine zipper tabs and sliders. Notice how the brand manufacturer is clearly shown on the zipper pull tab.

Using this information, one would certainly expect a genuine label brand of jean to have either YKK zipper or their own mark or symbol on the tab. If the tab slider is blank on front, then look on the back of the slider. YKK would be stamped there, too.

Coloring, Materials and Textiles

Brand label jeans are made with superior quality textiles. The weight of the fabric would feel heavier since it is of a thicker yarn. Fake jeans are often made of much cheaper and thinner material. The coloring could appear strange, or have dye runs and discolorations on the denim material.

Some manufacturers of designer label jeans have common cut lengths to the jeans. This manifests itself as having an inseam length of around 34.5 Inches. This is so the jeans can be tailored to suit the owner perfectly.

Another commonality may be the width of the outer end of the jeans, most commonly referred to as the 'cuff'. For many manufacturers, this would be an exact width and would be the same amongst a range of a particular style.

Inseam Length

If buying a pair of gently worn used jeans on eBay for example, then the inseam length may have been altered to fit the previous owner.

New jeans, however, would have a common cut length. Most sellers of genuine label jeans would include this information on the listing. Fake jeans, as being made as cheaply as possible, would not have the additional length on the inseam, as this would increase their costs in additional materials. It's a minor clue as to authenticity, but not all manufacturers have extended lengths.

Important Takeaways

Let's review this guide to authenticating jeans. The more features one finds inside the waist area will lead to a conclusion that the jeans are genuine:

• Are there at least 1, or additional, labels and tags inside the waist area showing size and style codes. The more tags there are inside, point to authenticity.
• The style code or cut numbers are generally printed onto the tag, rather than stitched into the tag.
• Do the labels feature metal foil security devices with tiny micro-stitched lettering. Having such a security feature, points to authenticity.
• Is the zipper pull tab stamped with either YKK, a manufacturer logo, or lettering. If no symbol or lettering appear on front zipper, this could indicate counterfeit jeans.
• Are all inside stitches true and of high quality. There should be no under-runs, over-stitching, or errors.
• Does the denim feel heavyweight; alternatively, do they have a superior soft feeling to the touch.

Checking the jeans for a few of these 'clues' should indicate that the jeans are real and not counterfeit. It takes merely seconds to quickly verify such features and tags are present on the jeans. Happy shopping.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

Questions & Answers

Question: What about Miss Me jeans? They have multiple lines and as such tags and markers change. Some of my Jeans have the YKK zipper; an M printed; a MMiss Me tag or a Miss Me tag. Some have rivets on the back leather patch label while others do not. How do you tell when there are so many differences between Jean types from the same brand?

Answer: The more features one finds in the jeans could give clues to their authenticity. YKK or self branded zippers would appear genuine. If there are multiple tags then this is a good sign. Miss Me jeans in particular have a belt loop at the back which should be positioned directly above the rear gusset seam. There should be a stitched stylized M logo on the coin pocket and all riveting on the jeans should show a logo or pattern on the rivet. The rivets should not be plain.

Question: what information appears on the label of denim jean?

Answer: This article contains many indications of what information may be on the denim jean labels of authentic designer jeans.

Micro stitching on the labels; a particular font used on a certain brands label; serial numbers printed onto labels, rather than stitched; the number of labels attached (The more labels is a good clue of authenticity); Inside labels will have small close stitched threading.

All of these features, & more, may be indicative of having a genuine pair of designer jeans.

There are so many brands of denim jean that it would be difficult to tell which particular security or design feature is on them all. This article gives a starting point with many features which are present in some different manufacturers.

Read through the complete article, it will give indications & clues of what information would be on a genuine pair of designer label denim jeans, not just the labels.

Question: Do Joe's Jeans have two small white fabric tags each with a red line on them? Is this a validation for the brand, or a way of preventing a fraudulent return to Joe's boutique? I purchased jeans from TJ Maxx, but don't want to wear them and feel embarrassed if they're authentic but disfigured by TJ Maxx for distinction purposes. Please advise. All the other markings and requirements for authenticity are there.

Answer: Unusual markings on inside tags may be a way for a particular brand to mark the item as having a small defect, or failing other Quality & Assurance [Q&A] checks - most brand labels use Q&A to ensure consistency of the product. This prevents fraudulent returns of items to the main boutique stores.

The manufacturers employ various means to mark the inside of items to show that they are, "factory seconds." Such marks could include: Permanent red marker pen stripes; X marks; lettering inside labels; printed symbols. Levis Jeans use a joker symbol from a deck of cards printed onto the inside label of their jeans to mark them as factory seconds. Other manufacturers have the back outside label ripped or removed.

The main aim of these markings is to prevent factory seconds - and other items that have failed Q&A - from being sold as perfect items to the public. Factory seconds can be bought wholesale and resold to retailers specialising in those products at a discount to the regular pricing.

Stores such as Winners (Canada), TJ Maxx (USA), TK Maxx (United Kingdom & Europe), and many smaller online wholesale marketers deal in these types of products sold directly to the public.

© 2014 Hilary

Wendy is a journalist who has been writing online since 2007 on topics such as plus size fashion, learning languages and traveling.

Being plus size doesn't mean that you can't wear a pair of good-fitting jeans. It's time to throw away those 'fat jeans' and get some plus size jeans that control and enhance your curves. The perfect pair of jeans can be so sexy that your petite neighbour will be green with envy.

Like with any other plus size clothes, the secret to finding jeans that fit is in knowing the best cut to suit your body shape, enhance your good points and downplay your trouble areas.

How to Find Women's Plus Size Jeans That Fit

A good pair of jeans should lengthen your legs, slim your figure and hug your curves (or create the illusion of having them). Most importantly, a good pair of jeans should be comfortable to wear. Is that too much to ask for?

We all have different body shapes regardless of how large or small we are, but sometimes clothing for each unique body type is not so easy to find. It's no surprise that 'off-the-hanger' clothes do not always fit properly. Unfortunately, not all of us can afford a personal tailor to make a made-to-measure wardrobe for us, so we need to invest a lot of time trying to find the correct cut to fit our body shape.

Fortunately, once you know your body, which areas you want to enhance and which ones you prefer to hide, you only need to follow a few rules to make shopping for clothes a delight rather than a drag.

First of All, Know Your Body Shape

Are you an apple? A pear? A rectangle? If you're not sure, don't worry; you can figure it out.

To find your body shape, you might need to be ruthless with yourself. Place yourself naked in front of a full-length mirror and study your body shape. If you have any doubts, take your measurements with a measuring tape and use those dimensions to draw a silhouette of yourself on a piece of paper. Sometimes we see faults where there are none, so drawing a scaled silhouette of yourself on a piece of paper will give you a non-biased idea of your actual body shape.

Once you have determined your body shape, you can start to figure out which style of jeans best suits you, from high-waisted skinny jeans to boot-cuts with sequins.

The 5 Most Common Body Shapes

• Hourglass
• Pear (triangle)
• Inverted triangle
• Rectangle
• Apple

Best Jeans for an Hourglass Figure

Do you have an hourglass body shape? Well, you are lucky, as some people consider this to be the ideal body shape. The typical hourglass-shaped person has almost the same width in their shoulders and hips and a more narrow, well-defined waist. The hourglass figure has a rounded, well-defined butt and bust.

If you are hourglass-shaped, you will need jeans offering a good fit at the waist and hips to emphasize your curves. Wearing anything that wraps snugly around the thinnest part of your waist will make your perfect proportions stand out. This is often achieved with stretch fabrics that adapt to your curves, cinching your waist and hugging your hips.

These are some jeans to wear if you have an hourglass figure:

• Flared jeans: They balance out your lower legs with your hips and thighs.
• Levi's Bold Curve: The jeans adjust snugly at the waist.
• Little in the Middle brand fits well for wide hips and a thinner waist.
• Skinny jeans: They emphasize your curves, but they can also make you look shorter, so to make up for that you will need to pair your skinny jeans with high heels.
• High-waisted jeans: These are for if you have an hourglass body shape but you have a bit of a muffin top, are the best solution for your figure.

Tip: Stay away from belts or detailing such as pockets around the hips or bum; that will just add bulk.

How to Choose Jeans for a Pear/Triangle Figure

The pear or triangle shape has shoulders that are narrower than their hips and a defined waist.

If you have a pear-shaped body:

• Look for jeans in a darker shade.
• Wear your jeans with light-coloured tops to balance your figure.
• Straight leg or boot cut jeans are your best bet to balance out a pear-shaped figure.

If you're a pear shape, avoid baggy jeans; they will only make you look bigger than you are. Horizontal fading will also do you no favours, as it exaggerates width.

Tip: Beware of pockets spaced too far apart—they'll broaden any butt.

Jeans for an Inverted Triangle Figure

The inverted triangle has wider shoulders than hips and a waist that is not very defined. To balance your figure, you need to draw attention away from your upper body. If you have an inverted triangle figure:

• Try wearing jeans with detailing or ornaments at the pockets to bring attention to your butt.
• Choose light-coloured jeans that also bring attention to your lower body.
• You can wear low rise jeans to elongate your torso.

Tip: Avoid high-waisted jeans, as they will shorten your upper half.

Jeans for the Rectangle Figure

The rectangle shape is more or less equally large up and down—shoulders are almost the same width as hips, and the waist has very little definition. Having this straight plus size figure can make it very difficult to find a well-fitting pair of jeans.

How to Create the Illusion of a Curvier Figure

If you are rectangle shaped, you may want to create the illusion of a curvier, smoother figure. Here are some tips for achieving the illusion of a curvier silhouette:

• Look for slightly flared-cut jeans that are tight on the hips and butt. The flare will balance out the tight fit at the hips, giving you a more harmonious figure.
• If possible, go for 'cheating pockets' like the ones from the Salsa collection; they are slightly rounded in shape, giving the illusion of a rounder butt.
• Wear brightly coloured skinny jeans, preferably with a top that is no longer than waist-length.
• Wear your jeans with a thick belt to visually create a more defined waistline.
• Jeans with detailing (buttons, embroidery, sequins) on the hips and butt are another way to highlight those areas.

Best Jeans for an Oval/Apple Figure

The oval shape has a full, undefined waist, and the shoulders and hips are of equal width. The torso is rounded, often with a large bust. Most of the weight is concentrated between the shoulders and hips, giving an overall round shape.

Those with oval-shaped figures should look for:

• Dark-coloured jeans.
• Jeans with push-in effect to hold in the belly. Look for plus size jeans with a wide waistband, or go for jeans with 'tummy control'.
• High-waisted jeans to avoid unsightly bumps, and also to give a more defined waistline.
• Boot cut jeans that fit well at the waist and are relaxed at the hips can balance an oval shape.

Tip: Avoid 100% stretch fabrics, and give preference to at least 90% cotton and 10% stretch fabric. A good, strong denim will have a better hold of your body.

One of my favourite jeans that offers a slimming effect comes from a company called Salsa. It is the Secret Salsa for Women jean, and it has a triple thinning effect.

How to Find Jeans That Fit

My Favourite Pair of Plus Size Skinny Jeans

Personally, I am one for a skinny cut paired up with high heels and a flattering top. It can take you anywhere from the office to a drink out with the girls to a romantic dinner.

For a flattering fit that stays true to your shape and doesn't stretch out with use, the skinny jeans from Lane Bryant are the perfect investment. They are ultra trendy and curve-hugging. What's more, they come in two lengths which means that my legs won't drown in the length of an ordinary pair of jeans. Wear them with your favorite top and killer heels for a fashion-forward ensemble. They also look great with biker's boots for a wilder look.

© 2013 Wendy Iturrizaga

Did you find the information here useful?

MD SHIRAZUL ISLAM on February 06, 2020:

Leggings plus size suits is the best and smart

Wendy Iturrizaga (author) from France on September 29, 2015:

peachpurple: I am not sure about leggins as too many people wear them the wrong way. I believe that a good fitting pair of jeans can work wonders for your figure and also tend to look smarter.

peachy from Home Sweet Home on September 26, 2015:

leggings suit plus size women

Wendy Iturrizaga (author) from France on March 10, 2014:

Cherilann: I hope you get the opportunity to experiment with different styles, you would be surprised how different (thinner, taller, chubbier, shorter, etc) you can look with different styles. I think that the important point is to find the style that suits you better , rather than following every single fashion trend.

Cherylann Mollan from India on March 10, 2014:

Hi Princessa! This is truly a very informative hub. I had no idea that there were so many kinds of jeans available. One kind of jean becomes a trend and everybody follows it, creating the illusion that is the only kind available. But, thanks for this hub, it has made me want to experiment a bit more with the styles I wear.

Wendy Iturrizaga (author) from France on September 24, 2013:

prasadjain: thanks for your input.

Dr.S.P.PADMA PRASAD from Tumkur on September 14, 2013:

Wah, this is funny but useful for those who want to wear jeans but hesitating as they are bulky. You have taken pains in drafting this hub.

Hats off for the sincerity you take in writing hubs.

I enjoy helping others solve the problem of their jeans making that annoying popping noise.

There's a few reasons that could be contributing to the problem.

• For one, and I don't mean to be harsh, it may be because of you. The pants may just not fit you right according to your shape. In my case, the offending pair of jeans are skinny jeans. My thighs fill the legs out well, but they are much more loose in the crotch region, and my big booty in the back makes them slide down throughout the day. The extra room in the crotch region makes the fabric bunch and then "pop" with my every movement. If you have skinny jeans, you know that they are generally supposed to be snug all over. See if your pants are loose at a place where it should instead be hugging. People who lose or gain weight often have problems with their clothes making noise. Your pants can either be too loose, or too tight in some places!
• Another reason pants makes noise is the firm fabric that they are made of. I have another pair of skinny jeans that are made with incredibly soft, stretchy fabric. They aren't technically made from denim, but they have never made a peep when I walk in them. Stiff fabric is much more likely to make noise, so consider this when you are out shopping.

How to Deal With Popping Pants

I'm no fashion professional, but I do know my fair share of common wardrobe gripes. Years ago, I bought my first pair of "popping pants" and was terribly embarrassed by them.

For those of you who might be confused about what this "pop" is, I am talking about this little noise you get from the crotch of your pants when you walk or move. Only certain types of pants will do this. Sadly, it doesn't matter how much they cost or what brand they are from. A lot of pants will do this, and it all has to do with the fit and the fabric. I still own a pair of popping pants to this day, I can't help myself when I see a pair of stylish jeans. I usually do not figure out that they pop until after I've bought them. I love my jeans, but this has been one of the most annoying, embarrassing problems that they can come with.

Yet, it's also pretty funny to talk about. I've compiled some tips to deal with a popping pair of pants and how to try to solve the problem. If all else fails, though, it would probably be best for you to give them away or take them back to the store for a refund.

Hike Them Up

• The best way to solve a loose problem in the crotch is to keep your pants up with a belt. Luckily for us girls they sell many, many cute belts in just about every store. It is very easy to find one that either matches your pants, your mood, or your overall style. This is the quickest, easiest thing you can do to fix your pants. Unless you are a tailor, I would try the offending pair of pants on with a belt and do a test strut to see if they still make the noise.
• I've found that if they do still make noise, the problem is the fit around the legs and not the crotch or booty area. If it's not that, then the fabric used just doesn't agree with the shape of the pants and my body. At that point it would be time to take them back.

Popping Emergency?

If you are like me, then you just throw your new pair of pants on and walk out the door. There is really no thought to if they will make noise or not. When they do start to pop, it can be incredibly frustrating. Especially if you chose to wear your cute bottoms out on a date. When in an emergency like this, you simply have to deal with the little annoyance until you can go home and change.

• Whenever my pants begin to make noise, I instantly find the time to (privately) hike them up. This always temporarily solves the problem. Remember that what's happening is there is too much room in the crotch, while it is most likely tighter all over.
• Even though I have a bigger butt, girls with a smaller butt may suffer from this as well. What little fabric there is left around the thigh too will bunch in with the crotch seams and you will hear it snap. I have found a big portion of the pants problem for me has to do with skinny jeans as those are the least likely to fit both my curvy thighs and booty.
• Walking quickly, and in small steps, can result in a popping machine gun. It is incredibly hilarious, for everyone except the poor person wearing them.

Don't Feel Weird

A lot of people will say they have never had, or even heard of, this problem. Well, they probably have the kind of body that fits well with most store-bought clothes. That or they know how to properly make sure their clothing fits before they purchase it—a skill I'm still mastering.

I also do not have the patience to intensely scrutinize every piece I pick up in stores. I have always been a weird shape, and I have a petite mother who has dealt with being a weird shape. There are tons of people who have plenty of problems finding the right clothes. Sure it looks good in the store, but then at home it just isn't sitting right.

So, if your pants pop, or if you have any other wardrobe problem, do not feel alone or odd. Many others including myself must deal with them too.

Comments

sunset on March 14, 2018:

I find my jeans do this because my thighs are probably too fat it seems like it gets sweaty there and everything's squeaks it's horribly embarrassing & miserable.

I found myself laughing so hard I thought I was going to have an asthma attack....

Mike on April 20, 2017:

Air collected round the crotch can make a squeeky sound. 'It wasn't me, it's the jeans I used to say when my jeans 'had something to say'. I'm not embarrassed! But someone will laugh calmly....he-he. My broad hips maybe let the jeans suck in air into the jeans and compresses it hard against the crotch and finally goes out there too. Not always but when I walk fast or walk up the stairs. If I release the belt or open the zipper the sound is weaker. (air lets out) Halfopen zipper is therefore ok, the hoodie hang over that opening so.... Or I can use softshelled pants too but I prefer jeans....beard, checky shirt and sunglasses (western style).

florencia on June 14, 2016:

Hahaha I came to find this while looking up information in spanish. Zero results in spanish. Im from south America. It happens that I have the cutest black skinny jeans but as soon as I walk with them on, they start making this popping noise. I wore them 2 or 3 times but the noise continued on every step I took. It's embarassing! Today I freaked out and ripped the sewing in the crotch with a scissors. I dont know how but, I will fix it :D

Johnd780 on July 16, 2014:

We're a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community. dcedfeagdaee

Laura on June 18, 2014:

I just bought a pair of these and seriously thought I was the only one! They were so expensive and look great which is why I still wear them. I just need to keep them hiked up. Thanks!

GirlPuhi on January 10, 2014:

Thanks so much for this article! I have this same problem and when it's quiet it almost sounds like little tooting noises lol. When I'm around friends I tell them straight out "I'm not farting, it's just my pants" but being in a quiet area with strangers is awkward! Thanks for the tip of pulling up the pants; this will help me a lot in the future. :)

hvanstee on September 04, 2013:

I just want to say thank you for this post. I really REALLY appreciate it! You have illuminated so many important points that help this issue I've been having with pants finally make sense! I gain and lose weight a lot and notice the "pop" sound mostly with stiffer fabrics. I have a big butt and thick thighs and my pants bag at the crotch- excess fabric causing popping! Ah! I love the idea of softer clothing, finding a better fit for my body, and making sure I don't have a lot of excess fabric in the crotch. Pants that hug your body equally in all areas will be very good:) Good luck and thanks for you informative post!

I enjoy writing articles that help women feel more comfortable in their own skin and clothing.

How Can I Find Jeans That Fit?

It's a vexing question many denim lovers have probably asked themselves at some point. Some people don't mind spending a good amount of their time shopping around or slipping in and out of the fitting room until they find a perfect pair of jeans. But unfortunately, not everyone has time for that. Many people now prefer buying jeans online, whether it's due to convenience or irresistible discount offers.

One obvious downside of online jean shopping, however, is that you don't get to try them on. True, most people know what their size is, but jean sizing tends to run differently among designers. Those who normally wear a size 8 Ann Taylor may sometimes have to opt for a size 6 when buying from Banana Republic. Even within the same brand, the sizing among various styles may differ slightly. Don't let this inconsistency perplex you, though. Here is how to correctly determine your jean size, regardless of what brand or style you're buying.

Measure Your Body for Jean Fitting

Some of you may think your waist size is all you need to know. Well, it's not that simple. There are a few other measurements you'll also need to make. Now get your measuring tape ready!

• Waist: Around the narrowest part of your torso, slightly above the belly button
• Hips: Around the widest part of your lower hips
• Rise: From the waist to the crotch
• Inseam: From the crotch to the bottom of your foot

Finding a Perfect Pair of Jeans

When purchasing jeans online, don't just choose them by their numerical size and assume they will fit perfectly like other pants you already have in your closet. First, look at the rise measurement or the length between the crotch and the waistband. The shorter the length, the lower the jeans will sit on your waist.

Jean Rise Guide

Once you know where exactly the jeans will sit on your waist, measure your waist at that position and compare it to the waistband size of the jeans. Then finally, consider the hip and inseam measurements of the jeans you want to buy.

Best Jean Styles for Different Body Types

Best Jeans for V-Shaped Bodies

Go with a mid rise or classic waist if you want to rock your jeans! Low-rise jeans can cause the "muffin top" effect, whereas the high-rise style may draw a bit too much attention to your large midriff. Finding jeans that fit right at the waist but not too unshapely on the hip and thigh area can also be challenging for this body type.

To emphasize your slim hips and thighs while concealing the love handles, opt for tummy-control jeans with straight or slim legs. Plus, accessorize your wardrobe with a couple pairs of tapered boyfriend jeans. These relaxed-fit jeans are nice-and-easy on the waist and hips but not too baggy in appearance overall. Any jeans that give you the leggy look and shift the focus away from the tummy are your best friends.

Best Jeans for Pear and Hourglass Figures

Curviness is a lovely aspect of femininity. A lot of women with other body shapes are secretly jealous of you. However, that doesn't mean your life is that much easier than theirs when it comes to finding perfect jeans. Curviness does come with a curse. Some jeans that have the correct waist measurement may turn out to be too small for your hips, while those that fit the hips quite nicely tend to have a huge gap at the waist, ride way down when you're seated and reveal a little more than you want to show.

Fortunately, though, many designers have been creating special lines of jeans with the pear and hourglass figures in mind. Curvy jeans is what they're called. In addition to having a larger waist-hip ratio than those of regular jeans, they also better contour to your natural curves! Also, try to avoid low-rise jeans with all your might; large-hipped women do need extra coverage down there.

Tapered slim jeans may be a flattering option for hourglass-shaped gals with slender legs. For the pear body type with thunder thighs, however, it's better to stick to styles that create the long, steamlined look, such as bootcut and trouser jeans.

Best Jeans for Round Figures

Some say overweight women shouldn't wear jeans at all. That is downright untrue. There are certain styles of jeans that can look amazing on round figures. Classic-rise trousers and relaxed-fit jeans with straight legs are some favorable choices. They make your legs appear slimmer while not accentuating your waist and hips too much.

Wide-leg jeans, although continuously going in and out of trends, should also be wardrobe essentials for full-figured women. Fitted at the hips, they won't add undesirable bulk to your behind like baggy jeans do. The billowing leg openings also provide perfect coverage to some thigh flab you might want to hide. Avoid low-rise and super tapered jeans; they will only draw bad attention!

Best Jeans for the Stick Body Type

Stick-thin women can rock pretty much any style of jeans. It's the reason why most jean models have this body type! There are a few styles, though, that tend to be more flattering on your not-so-curvy shape than the others. Low-rise skinny jeans, of course, are many slender women's number one choice. They add visual curves to your behind and hips while accentuating your slim legs.

If you want to give some dimension to your straight silhouette, go with bootcut or flare-leg jeans. For those of you who are ultra thin, don't wear loose-fit or baggy boyfriend jeans. They don't make you look fuller at all but emphasize your thinness in an unflattering way. Some people might want to offer you a cheeseburger or direct you to the nearest soup kitchen if they saw you in those oversized jeans!

More Fashion Tips for Women

• How to Dress Your Age: Fashion Tips for Women
  
• Wedding Dresses for Short Women
  

Comments

Om Paramapoonya (author) on March 11, 2013:

@Jonny Carroll - Well put, Jonny! Thanks for dropping by :)

jonnydonut from Arlington, Texas on March 09, 2013:

Seriously, more people should read this. Just because it's denim and looks good on someone else, doesn't mean it will look good on you.

Om Paramapoonya (author) on March 07, 2013:

Thanks so much for your positive and kind feedback, everyone! So glad to hear from y'all! :)

viveresperando from A Place Where Nothing Is Real on March 07, 2013:

Enjoyed reading this! I am very picky about what jeans I buy. :) Found this quite helpful!

Mazlan A from Malaysia on March 07, 2013:

Om, congrats on another HOTD, you have earned quite a few already. You certainly know the secret to writing articles that will earn the HOTD award. This article is very informative & a good guide to a difficult issue for most people. Voted up for this awesome hub.

deergha from ...... a place beyond now and beyond here !!! on March 06, 2013:

Very detailed information here. Congratulation for the HOTD and its most deserving. Thank you for sharing this one. Voted up and shared.

KenWu from Malaysia on March 06, 2013:

Very detailed and well-written hub. This is surely very helpful for denim lover especially the ladies.

Subhas from New Delhi, India on March 06, 2013:

Millions of people are left undecided when buying a pair of jeans; this piece of info would really help them ease out.

prasetio30 from malang-indonesia on March 06, 2013:

Very informative hub. I think we must read this hub before buy the jeans, especially for women. I love your tips and the pictures as well. Thanks for writing and share with us. Voted up!

Prasetio

Bake Like a Pro on March 06, 2013:

Congrats for earning HOTD, yay :).

Kathryn from Windsor, Connecticut on March 06, 2013:

This is a great article. Congrats on HOTD, I can see why you won it!

I like the input on what the different styles are like, and what types of jeans are best for the different body types.

I always have to try on jeans, because the different styles, and even different brands, can be drastically different. But it is amazing how the "right" kind of jeans can be especially flattering! Thank you for sharing this with us.

Vespa Woolf from Peru, South America on March 06, 2013:

Congratulations on a well-deserved Hub of the Day! What a detailed and useful hub. I'll definitely use these guidelines next time I shop for jeans. Thanks!

Nancy Owens from USA on March 06, 2013:

Hi Om!

Congratulations on Hub of the Day! I really enjoyed this hub. It is jam-packed full of useful information, and I liked that you included so much detail about the various rises, which always seems to confuse me when shopping. Now I have the information I need to make good choices.

Thank You!

Nancy

Cynthia Calhoun from Western NC on March 06, 2013:

Fantastic hub - I LOVE the way you approached this topic and so many women will thank you. Voted up and shared!~

Mark Johann from New Zealand on March 06, 2013:

Good hub and I agree that some sizes differ depending on the brands. I got four jeans of same size but one jeans does not fit like the others.

Gail Sobotkin from South Carolina on March 06, 2013:

Congrats for earning HOTD for this well written and useful hub.

I love the tables and the fact that you included info for all figure types.

Jon from UK on March 06, 2013:

Hey Om !!

love this hub I could not help thinking of something I wrote on the subject ages ago and think you might find it funny !!

Check this out

https://hubpages.com/literature/Fly-Jeans

Bye

Simba

Great hub btw

Kalpana Iyer from India on March 06, 2013:

I am still on the lookout for those perfect pair of jeans! This page has helped me a lot and will keep some of the points in mind next time I am out searching for one.

Christopher Peruzzi from Freehold, NJ on March 06, 2013:

Good advice... especially for husbands looking to find a good gift in jeans. Thanks.

Comfort Babatola from Bonaire, GA, USA on March 06, 2013:

Well written hub on a very real subject. I've seen jeans on people with curves and overflow in all the wrong places. This should help.

Voted up and useful, and congrats on the HOTD award!

Carolyn Dahl from Ottawa, Ontario on March 06, 2013:

Great Hub! I don't think people realize that you have to put a little thought into what style of jean looks best on you and to take measurements too. I don't wear jeans much anymore, but now that I'm starting to lose the baby weight I might just reconsider.

Leah Lefler from Western New York on March 06, 2013:

A long, long time ago, I had a stick body. I wish I had it back! I have had to find a better fit now that I have had two kids and discovered the joy of pastries, haha. I really dislike the low-rise jeans, as they don't work well for someone with wide hips and a smaller waist (I find they tend to slide down), but it is hard to find jeans that sit at the natural waist anymore. Congrats on the HOTD, Om!

Susan Zutautas from Ontario, Canada on March 06, 2013:

Congrats on HOTD! I like high rise to classic and they have to be a relaxed fit. Hard to find these sometimes.

Great reference hub!

Rebecca Mealey from Northeastern Georgia, USA on March 06, 2013:

I figured this would get a HOTD when I first read it. Well deserved. Congratulations!

Mary Kelly Godley from Ireland on March 06, 2013:

Great advice. As a very short curvier lady finding jeans can be hard work and I do have some on-line disasters that make me want to stay away from the fridge forever. Like your advice and I will read more, how to dress your age might be my next read. Thanks.

skperdon from Canada on March 06, 2013:

Thank you, this is very helpful. I am one of those people who spends a lot of time in and out of fitting rooms trying to get the best fitting jeans.

Kristin Trapp from Illinois on March 06, 2013:

What an incredibly useful guide. I can't wait to try out your sizing tips next time I go jean shopping.

Om Paramapoonya (author) on February 14, 2013:

@rebeccamealey - Thanks for dropping by, Rebecca. Hope this hub makes your jean shopping experience less troublesome! Talbots, Levi's and NYDJ are some good jean brands for large petite women :)

Rebecca Mealey from Northeastern Georgia, USA on February 09, 2013:

This is a great guide for buying jeans...always a problem for me. I wear "large petite" sizes.

Om Paramapoonya (author) on February 07, 2013:

@lindacee - Good to hear from you, Linda! Mid rise jeans are also my favorite. High rise and classic waist, to me, look kind of mumsy. Low rise jeans are okay but they make me somewhat self-conscious when I sit down, especially when my top is not long enough to cover the upper hips.

Linda Chechar from Arizona on February 04, 2013:

OMG, finding jeans that fit these days is a major hassle for me! I typically go for a bootcut and mid rise, but sometimes that's a difficult combination to find in a budget jean. Right now, I have a couple pair that are low rise and I find I'm constantly trying to pull them up--guess I don't have the hips and derriere to wear them. Sigh. Anyway, I loved this Hub and will def refer to it the next time I'm on the hunt for jeans!

Om Paramapoonya (author) on January 30, 2013:

@akirchner - Yeah, glad you didn't rip your pants or get severely injured. But seriously, try not to fall off the sled ever again!

Audrey Kirchner from Washington on January 28, 2013:

Cool--thanks for the tip~ I'd hate to split my pants when I fall off the sled next time--I did fall off once so far...thank goodness I had on stretchy sweats! Didn't do much for my ego though but at least the next time I weathered the storm in my sweats...up on the sidewalk the 2 brats took me screaming WHOA and many other colorful words~ At least I didn't rip my pants but jeans would be nicer when I have to go to the ER~ ha ha HOPING NOT!

Om Paramapoonya (author) on January 28, 2013:

@Bake Like a Pro - Glad you enjoyed this hub. Keep these tips in mind next time you shop for jeans!

@akirchner - So you'll be your grandson's personal stylist? Hehehe that should be a lot of fun. I always think the most fun part of being with kids is dressing them up! BTW, have you ever heard of NYDJ (Not Your Daughter's Jeans)? I think those might be great slim jeans for mushing.

Audrey Kirchner from Washington on January 26, 2013:

Interesting info, Om--I know over the years it's become more and more difficult to buy jeans as there are just too many types--without trying them on in my case. Every cut is different but so are the waists these days and they do seem to go a lot for low riders.

Great picture at the top--I'm wondering though why guys don't seem to have this many choices and consequently trouble finding a pair of dang jeans~

Even trying to buy jeans though for my little grandson to be, it's insane how many different "looks" there are--I'm doing a hub at the moment on our local mens store (I think no kidding it's been there for 30 years) and since this is ranch country....OMG TABLES of jeans. But where are the old lady stretchy jeans for mushing?

Bake Like a Pro on January 25, 2013:

Om what a detailed and informative article wow! I enjoyed reading it. I always have trouble finding the perfect jeans and try about 20 pairs until maybe I get lucky. I learned a lot from your article. Hopefully this time around I can find the perfect fit jeans. Voted up and sharing :)

I am a plus size women with a unique obsession for anything that's denim, lace or drizzled in chocolate.

How to Rock Your Jeans

• Wear the right type of shoes to compliment whatever pair of jeans you are wearing. Knee high boots look amazing over skinny jeans, and a great pair of heels goes with any style just about.
• Know every single pair of jeans is going to fit everyone's body differently and pick a pair that flatters your figure and work it.
• A muffin-top is not a good fashion statement to be making. Ever!!! Unless you are a muffin then in that case come visit me because I have never seen a human muffin before. I'd be curious to see what flavor you'd be, strawberry, chocolate, maybe even cheddar?? Lol!!! Seriously though if your jeans are causing you to have a muffin top this can end up leading to fertility issues and everything. So avoiding this has a lot more to do with than just how it looks.
• You should always be able to breathe in your jeans. If you have to sit down slowly to keep the zipper zipped, and your backside from bursting out at the seams then you're probably wearing the wrong size. I like for my jeans to fit my curves snug too, but jeans shouldn't look like they've been painted on. Plus if you wear your jeans too many sizes too small they won't last very long.
• Wear what makes you feel comfortable, looks good and doesn't scare anybody. Unless of course that's the look you're going for and if that's the case more power to you. You do you!!!

Jeans for All Body Types

Every woman has a body that has been designed beautifully unique, and different. So dress to flatter it and show off your natural shape, embrace and love your body. The perfect pair of jeans can help certain areas that you want to highlight while drawing attention away from certain areas you would rather not showcase and put on display. Some jeans even come with built-in control panels or extra padding if you need it. These little added features can help cinch or add a little something extra by giving mother nature a little bit of a boost (pun intended). A sexy pair of great fitting jeans can do amazing things for a woman's body. "What type of jeans should you wear?" you ask. Base that on your body type—what works for some will not work for others.

A pair of great-fitting jeans can hide a multitude of heinous and embarrassing problems by enhancing and contouring the positives, giving you a classy, polished look. If you have chunky thighs, balance them out by wearing flare legs to balance out the top and bottom. If you have a large backside, (which, by the way, I give a big thank you to J-Lo and Iggy from all us thick-boned ladies) wear higher cut jeans to keep them from sliding around and causing a waist gap. Otherwise you'll be spilling out all over the place, trust me I know this from experience. Some jeans even have a built-in minimizer (girdle) on the inside tummy panel to help slim your hips and belly. Make sure you get the right size with these types of jeans though, or good luck on trying to breathe.

Below are a few ideas about what type of jeans look well on what type of body. Remember the key to looking great in anything is confidence.

Flatter That Body

The Right Fitting Jeans for an Hourglass Figure

An hourglass figure is an absolutely beautiful sight, but not when you melt and pour that gorgeous figure into the wrong type of jeans. Most curvy women should not wear super low-rise jeans. "Why not? You ask," because we have big hips and fuller bottoms. Wear jeans that fit and flatter you, not make you appear as if you have an imaginary muffin top or introduces the world to your butt crack.

What Not to Wear

• Any pair of jeans that have the two words "Low-Rise," because pulling up your pants all day is anything but sexy.
• What some people call the "Mom" jeans, who could forget those super, colossal zippers, or the over-sized pleats very unflattering. Especially for a curvy woman that has wider hips, this style can add so many exaggerated pounds to your body.
• Anything skin-tight, super, tight jeans generally don't look right on any shape. If you have to lay on the bed to zip the zipper up, forget about it, ladies. This can also cause rashes around the waist-line, and has even been known to have some bad effects on our health.
• Slim fit jeans, these are not meant for curvy girls, it's uncomfortable and hugs our curves in all the wrong ways.

What to Wear

• Jeans with a natural waistline always flatter a curvy body, they are more comfortable too.
• Boot-cut or flare-leg jeans, they help balance out a full bottom. They always look amazing on a curvy body type.
• Skinny jeans look wonderful on a curvy body as well but make sure they are the curvy-fit kind. They tend to be a little wider in the thigh area and have more pull to them, to keep your thighs from looking like a can of busted biscuits.

Dress your curvy body in the right pair of great fitting jeans, to enhance your natural God-given shape.

Hug Your Assets

Flattering Jeans for a Pear Shape

A pear shape can be just as beautiful as an hourglass shape. It can however be a very hard shape to find great fitting jeans for, unless you know what you are looking for. The waist seems to always fit too loose or the backside too tight, which creates that dreaded peek-a-boo (Waist gap). By wearing the right kind of jeans for your bountiful assets, you could end this constant battle of trying to find the right fit.

What Not to Wear

• Anything low cut is not going to fit us right, those are not meant for people with larger hips and backside. If you are spilling out you should not be wearing it, nobody wants to see your goodies. Not to mention how uncomfortable this feels, talk about wedgie city.
• Jeans with a very relaxed fit, this style is so unflattering for a pear-shaped figure. It adds extra bulk to the thighs and legs, which make them appear much larger than they are.
• Natural waistline pants can be quite an odd fit for a pear shape because their waist is usually a lot smaller than their derriere.

What to Wear

• Skinny jeans with a curvy fit and pretty embellished pockets look incredible on a pear shape; the extra details enhance their assets very nicely.
• Flare-legged jeans help balance out the fullness of the backside of a pear shape and make their thighs appear smaller.
• Jeans with a higher waist are a better fit for a pear shape; the highness of the waistline leaves some room for the derriere.

Enhance What You Got

Find the Right Fit for a Straight shape

This is a very elegant body type which reminds me of a graceful ballerina or a supermodel. When clothed in the right pair of great fitting jeans, this body type is stunning. A person with a straight body type should focus on the right fit and stay away from jeans that are bulky or too big. Wearing too big of a size when you're a straight shape can look very boxy and unflattering.

What Not to Wear

• Never wear jeans that have a super large flare, this adds way too much bulk for your small frame.
• Anything with too high of a waist can make your derriere appear as if it is board flat.
• Anything relaxed-fit or wearing too big of a size can make your jeans appear as if you're floating in them.

What to Wear

• Low waisted jeans look awesome on a straight shape. They add the illusion of having slight subtle curves without being too overpowering for your small frame.
• Regular-fit skinny jeans look awesome as well, anything that hugs and fits gives the illusion of added curves.
• Boot legged jeans look amazing as well. They add a small flare that can add the illusion of having curvy legs. Without being too over the top like flare legged or wide legged jeans.

All jeans are not created equally but everyone can look great in the right pair. A good pair of jeans can last for many years and be just as enjoyable to wear as sweatpants. Some great brands I recommend you try out for yourself are Lee's, Seven 7 For all Mankind, Level Eight and Levi's of course.

All body types are beautiful, but make sure to pick the right fitting jeans for your body type, enhance the positive's and be comfortable.

© 2012 Mary

Comments

Mary (author) from From the land of Chocolate Chips,and all other things sweet. on April 28, 2013:

Thank you for commenting stillwaters707.

stillwaters707 from Texas on April 27, 2013:

Now, the question is, where do you find just the right jeans? I used to love a store called Bill Bauer, but it is no longer in my town. Thanks for the hub.

Mary (author) from From the land of Chocolate Chips,and all other things sweet. on April 27, 2013:

Thank you for commenting and sharing Sneha Sunny.

Sneha Sunny from India on April 26, 2013:

I feel very comfortable in jeans. I have seen a lot of people who just wear any kind of jeans without bothering much how it is looking on them, but in real it looks very bad! This hubs has great guidance!

Thank you for sharing this useful hub. Rated, shared and voted up! :)

Mary (author) from From the land of Chocolate Chips,and all other things sweet. on April 26, 2013:

Thank you guys for reading my hub and commenting.

moonlake from America on April 26, 2013:

I'm old and still wear my jeans but I wish I could find some that fit well. I always liked Lands End because I could order the length I wanted and they didn't have so much stretch in them. I want a jean that is a jean like they use to be without the stretch. They no longer sell them that way that I have found. Great information voted up and shared.

Vespa Woolf from Peru, South America on October 05, 2012:

I think shopping for jeans is my least favorite past time! These hints are very helpful, and for each body type. I notice the waist tends to gap in the back, so I'll keep in my your suggestion of flare of straight-legged jeans. Thanks so much!

Dianna Mendez on October 04, 2012:

Love my jeans! Now that I know what looks good on me, I can shop for some more! Great hub post and so very interesting to read.

Thomas Silvia from Massachusetts on October 03, 2012:

Interesting, didn't know there was so much to know about woman's jeans .

Awesome !

Joyce Haragsim from Southern Nevada on October 03, 2012:

Great hub, I usually wear Gloria Vanderbilt because of the little elastic in the material. I just bought a new pair and they are usually good for me but this pair fits like a glove except for the waist.

voted up useful and interesting, Joyce.

mismazda from a southern georgia peach on October 03, 2012:

Great Hub...ohh Im so curvy, and you are so right low rise..is not the way to go. Thanks for the hub, voted up and useful.

Mary (author) from From the land of Chocolate Chips,and all other things sweet. on October 03, 2012:

Thank you Carol I feel the same way you do, Anything that makes you look like you have an exaggerated stomach in my opinion, is the wrong jean choice for your body type. Oh and they like to show their underwear off a lot too, I still don't see how that counts as any kind of style.

carol stanley from Arizona on October 03, 2012:

Jeans can really help different body types. I am always in horror when I see young girls with their belly spilling over. We call it muffin top for adults but kids it is just sloppy fat. And to boot it doesn't bother them at all. This is a great hub for those buying jeans. VotedUP. and shared.

Linda has written content for national fashion and beauty websites. She enjoys sharing style trends and tips with her readers.

I recently went on a mission to buy a new pair of khakis. Sounds like a simple task, right? Ladies, you know that’s not true! I spent hours trudging from store to store trying on pair after pair. For me, the frustration of shopping for pants is second only to buying a new bathing suit!

I persevered, managing to FINALLY find a pair that fit relatively well and actually looked OK. It would have been much easier and taken less time had I done my research beforehand. Well, better late than never!

I have compiled a list of handy tips to help find the best pants for every body type. I hope this will make your next shopping expedition a little less stressful. Imagine that, we can now enjoy shopping for pants!

Straight-Leg Pants

Straight-leg pants are an ideal style for any body type. I’m not talking about skinny leg pants. Straight legs have a uniform width from the thigh to the hem—not too narrow and not too wide. The look is flattering because it creates a straight visual line along the leg.

Straight-leg pants camouflage wide hips and heavy thighs, thus slimming your silhouette. Be careful to avoid pants that taper even slightly at the ankle. This will throw things off balance and make your hips look wider. Obviously, this style is also great for slender women and those of us lacking in adequate rear padding. Tall or petite, slender, or plus-size, straight-leg pants are a winner for every body type.

Gaucho Pants

The gaucho cut resurfaced several years ago and is still on the style radar. Gaucho pants fit like regular pants at the waist and upper hip. They began a gradual flare at the mid- to lower hip, continuing to the hemline—typically just below the knee. Gauchos are a great option for summer, as they give you the cooling benefits of a skirt and the modesty of cropped pants. You can find them in casual and dressy fabrics. You can even wear them in the winter months. Choose a weightier fabric and pair them with tights and knee-high boots.

If you are tall and have long legs, gaucho pants are perfectly suited for you. However, other body types can pull off the look by following a few rules. If you are petite but have a long torso and legs, you can rock gauchos just like your taller counterparts. If you have a short midsection and legs, stick with gaucho pants that have a less dramatic flair and longer length. Pair them with heels or thin wedges to add height. Also, stay away from dark colors as they will add the illusion of weight to your lower half and shorten your petite stature. Light color gauchos will help elongate your body.

Tall, full-figured women can also wear this style with no problem. If you are plus-size with a short torso and legs, follow the same rules as petites. Another caveat of wearing gaucho pants involves any size woman with heavy calves and thick ankles. In this case, opt for a longer-length gaucho—almost a palazzo pant with a moderate heel, to draw attention away from the lower leg area.

Boot Cut Pants

These pants feature a traditional fit through the waist and hips, with straight legs—the only difference being the slight flare as they reach the hem. The boot cut was obviously designed to fit over work and cowboy boots. Today, it designates a versatile pant style that can be worn with any type of footwear.

If you have a full figure, boot cut pants will give your legs a longer, leaner look. Petites will benefit from this style by wearing heels to help elongate the legs. Boot cut pants provide the same benefits as straight-leg pants. They make you look slimmer, complement your curves, and are a great match for any body type!

Skinny Pants

I wish I had better news, but this is something I can’t budge on. Sadly, skinny pants are not a look for everyone. They may be very fashionable, but many women have issues with them. If you’re on the fence about skinny pants, here’s the number one thing to consider: they were designed for and look best on women with a svelte figure —one that is not too thin, not too full.

The good news is skinny pants look good whether you’re petite or tall, but if you are harboring extra pounds or have a naturally curvaceous figure, you probably want to steer clear of them.

Cropped Pants

What did we do without cropped pants? The Gods were smiling on us when designers introduced them several years back. My hope is they stay around for a very long time! For those of us who like to be comfortable in the summer heat, but feel uncomfortable wearing shorts (i.e., exposing our thighs to the general population), cropped pants give us the best of both worlds.

You can own the cropped pant look, but you must find the right length for your body type to pull it off successfully. If you have large calves, select cropped pants with a hem that falls below the widest part of your calf. Ankle length are the perfect compromise for women with heavy legs.

Petite women should be aware that cropped pants can visually cut the length of your legs, making you appear even shorter. To elongate the body, petites and full-figures should choose straight leg cropped pants and avoid cuffs, cargo pockets and other decorative accents. Keep it simple.

Tall women should stay away from cropped pants that hit just above the ankle. Go with a mid-calf length to avoid looking like you’ve outgrown your pants. If you have thin legs and ankles, find a cropped pant that fits slightly closer to the leg—that tip is applicable for women of every size.

Wide-Leg Pants

As with most pant styles, tall, slender women have no problem wearing wide-leg pants. There are a number of stylists that believe full-figured and petite women should avoid them altogether. I happen to disagree. I believe, with a flattering fit, most women will look fabulous wearing wide-leg pants.

Wide-leg pants are not designed to fit tightly through the hips—the leg should fall straight down from the hip to the hem, with no curvature in the side seam or inseam. Believe it or not, a pair of properly fitting, wide-leg pants can create and long, slender profile. Dark color fabrics will further enhance that effect.

If you are petite, consider this rule for wearing wide-leg pants: if you’re on the slim side, pick high-waisted styles (sans pleats) to give your legs the appearance of length. Pair your wide-leg pants with a chunky heel to also elongate the leg—this tip applies to everyone.

Finding the Right Fit

Finding the right size and fit is critical for selecting any style of pants—no matter your body type or stature. Baggy pants will increase your girth, and tight pants will emphasize things we typically want to hide. When trying to determine the proper waist size, you should be able to place two fingers comfortably inside the waistband to ensure a comfortable fit.

When shopping, it is always a good idea to bring along another set of eyes—preferably someone who will give you an honest assessment. If not, you will have to rely on your own judgment and that of the salesperson—and as we all know, salespeople don’t always have our best interests at heart!

I spotted a great sizing guide from Talbot’s website. I have taken their size, waist, and hip measurements, and consolidated them into one nifty chart. Do keep in mind, however, that sizing varies greatly between manufacturers and price points. For instance, a pair of size 10 Merona pants from Target will run smaller than a Ralph Lauren size 10. To be on the safe side, check online sizing charts for the manufacturers you intend to shop and go with their sizing parameters.

And don't fret too much if you can't find that perfect fit in the store. If you are handy with a sewing machine, you can do your own pants alterations. I happen to be between sizes right now, so I try to find the best sale price I can, then take them in to be altered. Alterations (with the exception of hemming) can be pricey, so shop around for the best deal and avoid lined pants—lining increases the price substantially.

You're now armed with all the information you need to find the best pants for your body type. Go out there and have fun shopping!

Questions & Answers

Question: I have thin legs so what kind of pants should I wear?

Answer: Wear straight leg, wide or boot-cut pants to conceal your thin legs. You can also wear pants in light colors or bold patterns.

Question: Where do I find wide leg pants?

Answer: Do an online search to find wide leg pants. That way you can compare the style and price you want.

Question: I have heavy calves that are bigger than most women in my size. What style do you recommend?

Answer: Straight-leg or wide-leg pants are very flattering. The wider leg opening easily conceals large calves and creates visual balance. Hope this is an option for the body type!

Question: Where can one find a long, wide leg pant for a reasonable price?

Answer: Do an online search to find wide leg pants. That way you can compare the style and price you want.

Question: What pants should I wear if my hips are slightly curvy?

Answer: It is best to find a mid-rise or just below the waist to keep the pants up over the hips. Also, look for a boot cut, flared or straight leg pants to balance out your curvy hips. Stay away from skinny jeans. Hope this helps.

Question: What type of pants do you wear under boots?

Answer: It's best to wear skinny pants so they will fit easily inside a knee high boots.

© 2012 Linda Chechar

Start a Conversation!

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on April 08, 2019:

Sandra--

Thanks so much for your detailed comment! I just saw some bell-bottom jeans online. I want to buy a pair. I haven't had any since 1973!

Sandra on April 08, 2019:

Thanks for good review.

If people just want to have fun and variety with fashion, they tend to buy into fads and perhaps not worry about what suits them. I say "Good for them!" I'm one who doesn't buy into fads and ignored holey jeans and holey tops that showed shoulders and some arm. To me, they screamed "Fad"

It used to be that we dressed for balance. That is what you are still suggesting here (thanks!) but now having an apple shape, for instance, and skinny legs, at any age, seems to have created a new trend: emphasize both the contrast....very skinny pants on the bottom and a huge looking/colourful jacket. Either that or a teeny tiny jacked that shows a boney bum with a saggy pant. Forgive me...I'm very visual and enjoy cartooning people both in drawing and in words (including myself).

Recently a friend in her subtle way (not subtle me, however...she's kidding herself on that subtlety bit) suggested it was time for "us" to wear very hugging skinny pants (we're in our 70's). Well, I have very heavy thighs, knees and stomach. Cute picture, eh? I still like straight legs that are quite tight and show off my round bottom. Ha! Also, wide legged if I can wear my high platform shoes without breaking my neck. Oh, and boot cut. I can also get away with cut-offs that stop just below the knee as lower legs and feet are okay. Sorry for essay!

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on March 25, 2018:

Candis, I would suggest a wide leg pant or a gaucho-type crop pant. You could even do a slim leg worn with a stylish tunic.

Candis on March 25, 2018:

What is your solution for short heavy women that want pants that fit at the waist.

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on October 21, 2013:

Thank you, Mithuhassan1! :)

mina on September 25, 2013:

they are very nice

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on June 24, 2013:

donna, cropped pants may not be the most flattering look out there, but they make the majority of women feel comfortable, so I say go for it. Cropped pants, IMHO are much more flattering than spandex, no?

donna on June 23, 2013:

Sorry, but cropped pants look horrible on 98% of the women who wear them! They stop at an unbecoming place on the calf emphasizing the top of the foot, and what for many women is not a pretty part of their legs. Women who are the least bit overweight look especially bad.

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on May 07, 2013:

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks so much for reading and commenting, erorantes! :)

Ana Maria Orantes from Miami Florida on May 06, 2013:

Hello Lindacee. I like your article on tips how to find the best pants.

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on May 06, 2013:

Thanks Kawi! I don't know if this Hub will help with your wife's daily wardrobe decision-making process -- I think it is something all women go through. Some days it's easy and other days I have to try on several outfits before hitting on the "right" one! I appreciate the comment and votes. Take care. :)

Kawika Chann from Northwest, Hawaii, Anykine place on May 06, 2013:

Nicely done linda, my wife goes through pants like a windmill - before going to work she makes the mandatory three-outfit-change before settling on something that looks like what she wore the day before. I'll share your hub with her to give her a better insight. Filled with needed info, and written in a friendly and helping tone. Upvoted/useful/follow. Peace. Kawi.

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on April 17, 2013:

Thanks, Nicole! Yes, skinny jeans are not exactly my go-to jeans. I do have one pair and they are not too tight. I always pair them with a tunic-type top. Glad you stopped by for a read! I appreciate your comment. :)

Nicole S Hanson from Minnesota on April 17, 2013:

This is awesome, there are so many useful tips here. I rarely wear skinny jeans, and when I do, I make sure they are not skin tight. Plus it matters what top you pair them with. Nice hub!

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on May 24, 2012:

Jenny, you make me blush! Thank you so much for reading my Hubs. I try to give the reader useful information while injecting a bit of my personality in each Hub I write. It's not an easy task, but I so enjoy it -- especially when I have followers like you cheering me on!

jennyinfrance on May 24, 2012:

Yet another brilliant hub from a wise woman I'm getting to love reading! We can all empathise with lindacee, cos we've all been here in our quest for the perfect pants, right?? But some of us are too darned lazy (yep, I'm pointing the finger straight at myself!!) to write a blog on the subject that is both helpful to every other woman on the planet, AND great fun to read. Long may you reign supreme in hubland, lindacee. You are such a fount of good sense, and a joy to read on every topic you tackle! Good on ya!!

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on May 24, 2012:

Nelson, thank you for stopping by! I'm pleased you enjoyed this topic!

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on May 24, 2012:

articlesocean, sometimes we have to make concessions for our work wardrobe. I can't wear cropped pants, but can get away with skinny pants if I wear a longer shirt over them.

I totally agree! It's so difficult and frustrating to find the right style in the right size. Especially when one shops sales -- things are usually picked over and you don't have a decent selection to choose from.

Thanks so much for reading my Hub! Have a great day!

Nelson85 from NY on May 23, 2012:

Really very good topic, I really enjoyed to read this hub...

Saira Sheikh from London, United Kingdom on May 23, 2012:

I would prefer skinny pants for regular wear but for my office use i would prefer Wide leg pants. Great Hub !

I usually find shopping irritating because what i choose i can't find my size and when i find my size i don't fancy the design.

Linda Chechar (author) from Arizona on May 11, 2012:

Teaches 12345, shopping for pants shouldn't be this complicated, but there just too many styles out there -- and within those styles many different cuts. I try to stay away from the trendy and stick with straight leg and boot cut for the best results. Thank you for reading and happy I could be of service!

Dianna Mendez on May 10, 2012:

Excellent hub coverage on this topic. I enjoyed the read through this and the fit chart is really helpful I think the straight legged pant is my best choice after reading the details. Thanks for sharing.

I've been an online writer for over eight years. I love helping people feel more comfortable in their own skin!

Which Levi's Fit Me Best?

"Which Levi's should I buy?" is a common question. Levi's is constantly inventing new styles and cuts to accommodate today's taste, and it's hard to keep track of all the new options. Plus, the style that fit you perfectly three years ago might not look so great now, since styles (and bodies) change!

Take it from me: I know how hard it is to find the right pair of jeans, and I also know what looks good. Men, make sure you read this buying guide before you buy your next pair of Levi's. Below, you'll find the perfect cut for your body type, attitude, and style.

Your Levi's Style Guide-at-a-Glance

501 Original Fit Jean

501s are what legends are made of and can be worn by almost all body types and sizes because they are not too tight and not too loose, either. There are two types of 501s: original (with a 16" leg opening) and shrink-to-fit (17" leg opening), but both are made of 100% cotton, sit just below the waist, and have a button-fly style that is timeless and evergreen. 501s are a must-have in every man's wardrobe.

• Body type: Will look best on men with athletic body types.
• Attitude: No-frills, no-nonsense jeans with a raw attitude. If you are a guy who likes bling, this style is not for you.
• Your style: This cut has not gone out of vogue for decades and probably never will.
• First impression: At first glance, you'll look like a normal guy with a timeless sense of style.
• Peculiarities: Make sure which style you're getting (original or shrink-to-fit). Also, the new 501 CT is just like the original 501s but with modernized legs. Because one of the main alterations guys were having done to their old 501s were having the legs tapered, Levi's did it for us here.

505 Regular Fit Jean

Sitting just below the waist with a 16 1/2" leg opening, the 505 is another no-nonsense pair of jeans which lessen the chances of you mucking up your style quotient. As the name suggests, these are a straight-fit jean with a classic style. It has a zip fly and a slimmer leg that modernizes the cut without making it skinny. This style is sometimes made with a bit of elastane mixed in with the cotton, so the denim has a bit of stretch.

• Body type: Will suit men with all body types.
• Attitude: The 505 is the best friend of a guy who hates spending time deciding what to wear.
• Your style: Being a classic, this cut can be worn in almost all types of occasions and in all seasons.
• First impression: Having a very down-to-earth style quotient, you may want to top these off with a nice shirt or else their first impression may be a bit too down-to-earth.
• Peculiarities: None.

510 Super Skinny Jean

With a very skinny and extremely slim cut (a 13 1/2" leg opening), 510s will be worn only by men who want a very tight fit. They're made with a bit of stretchy spandex in the weave to make them even more form-fitting. Sitting below the waist and narrow through the entirety of the legs, 510s are skinny indeed.

• Body type: For men with a small frame.
• Attitude: Great for guys who have a rebellious attitude.
• Your style: Suits a youthful, trendy guy who has a daring sense of style.
• First impression: With the 510, you can have that young, hip, "I don't care" look.
• Peculiarities: Although the 510 will stretch, they are extremely skinny and narrow, one of Levi's slimmest-fitting cuts. These simply won't fit guys with bigger body types.

511 Slim Fit Jean

Extremely popular and one of Levi's best-selling pairs of slim-fit jeans, the 511 seems to be the choice of the man of the 21^st century. They have a 14 1/2" leg opening and are a bit loose at the top, slim at the thigh, and skinny as they go down. A bit of elastane in the weave gives them their stretch.

• Body type: The 511 will look best on slim bodies but will also complement athletic body types.
• Attitude: A person with an up-to-date style.
• Your style: Suits a man who is really fashion-conscious.
• First impression: If groomed well, a guy wearing 511s gives a metrosexual impression.
• Peculiarities: None.

514 Slim Straight Leg Jean

Slim and straight is the motto of the 514. They have a slimmer but aren't skinny. The waistband falls on the hips rather than on the waist, the leg opening is 16 1/2", they're straight-legged, and a slim fit make this jean a must-buy for men who like to deviate a bit from the comfort-over-style old-school denim but are wary of skinny jeans. Some 514s are 100% cotton, some have some man-made stretchy stuff in the weave.

• Body type: The 514 will look best on athletic or slim bodies.
• Attitude: Complements a cool attitude.
• Your style: Not baggy but not skinny, the 514 is just right.
• First impression: A guy who cares about his style and looks, but never goes overboard with fashion trends.
• Peculiarities: 514s have one of the lowest rises of all Levi's.

527 Low Rise Boot Cut

Featuring the infamous boot cut style, the 527 will sit just below your waist and will maintain a regular fit until your thighs, after which they form the boot cut. The 527s are comfortable and relaxed. Designed for the modern cowboy, the wider boot-cut leg leaves room for your cowboy boots. The leg opening is 18 1/4" and most are made of 100% cotton.

• Body type: Although they will suit almost all body types, men with larger frames should avoid the boot cut style.
• Attitude: For those with a calm and peaceful attitude.
• Your style: The boot-cut fashion is slowly fading away. However, the 527 is not too wide at the bottom, so you will have a retro, yet fashionable look.
• First impression: Pair the 527s with the right accessories or you may end up looking like a rock star from the 70s.
• Peculiarities: Boot cut.

550 Relaxed Fit Jean

With a 16 1/2" leg opening and a tapered leg, these are easy to wear. No, you will not have to adjust your denim if you find yourself sitting in a small seat, nor will you have to worry about feeling stuffy on a sunny day. True to their name, 550s are casual, relaxed, traditional, 100% cotton, and fit comfortably any and every time.

• Body type: Look best on men with an average body type, not too slim and not too bulky.
• Attitude: Portray an old-school attitude because the back of the waistband tends to sit higher than other Levi's.
• Your style: Fits those whose sense of style is relaxed and carefree.
• First impression: Hate to say it, but these jeans can go dangerously wrong and may give a nerdy look if not paired with the right t-shirt or shirt.
• Peculiarities: As mentioned, the 550 tends to sit higher at the back. If you're looking for a younger, fresher, low-slung cut, stay away from these.

560 Comfort Fit Jean

The 560 is often pegged as the most relaxed style the brand has ever offered. Your search for comfortable 100% cotton jeans that don't look too baggy ends here, because the 560s have a tapered leg and a 16" leg opening.

• Body type: 560s will look best on a heavy body type.
• Attitude: For men with a super attitude and a happy outlook.
• Your style: Forget style, comfort is the name of the game here, gentlemen.
• First impression: Mr. Happy if paired with a spunky t-shirt, or Mr. Gangster if sagging and paired with an extra-large t-shirt and a gangster cap.
• Peculiarities: Extremely spacious.

Comments

Craig SCHUTTE on February 29, 2020:

Cool!

Good Tech!

Like Me.

Win on December 17, 2019:

No mention if the 505 "Regular Fit Advanced Stretch".

quester on December 04, 2019:

560 is no longer made, they have nothing to compare

found through trial and error LL Bean relaxed fit to be the closest to the 560

Paul Harris on July 08, 2019:

I have a pair of black 519 Levi’s,but you don’t mention that cut,Why?

Juan on June 22, 2019:

I wear 569 but looks like is not good for me anymore

AC on June 01, 2019:

You forgot 502’s! MY favorite

dikgole on May 02, 2019:

is there number 522?

Tom Martz on April 03, 2019:

What about 502

Giorgi Gagnidze on December 14, 2018:

Where's 517???

BC on October 25, 2018:

501 Old school pants forever. Thx ;)

Tom Rowland on May 16, 2018:

Need 38-29 but no saggy seat and tighter thigh..

Johnny Vandegrift on April 08, 2018:

What do you call the color of jeans that’s like new denim not pre washed

martin B. on May 08, 2017:

Oh geez...what "rock star" idiocy on the 527. An 18.25 inch leg opening is nowhere near the flare pants of the 70s. For that you need something north of 21". The overt move toward pencil thin (at the ankle) jeans has made it impossible to find any pair of BLACK jeans that are wider than 18.5". Most are slim-straight or slim-skinny. This means for those who fashion a pair of jeans that actually covers the damn shoe you are pretty much SOL. The longer the shoe, the more ridiculous skinny pants look...at least to me...maybe like Ronald McDonald the clown...or like Martin Landau looked in X-Files "Fight The Future". Finally, I have worn 517s (same 18.25 leg opening) at work for years and they look nowhere close to 70s-era bell-bottoms...especially once they shrink the hell up. The silhouette looks straight from ass to floor. My BKE Fultons still have trouble looking not straight even with a 20" leg opening...such is the nature of size 11 shoes...which look like boats if you are not careful.

Kyle Sheeran on March 06, 2017:

What do you think about this pair of jeans?? Its the first time I am purchasing online so I need another opinion.

http://www.makeyourownjeans.com/jeans/non-stretch-...

Silverbulletca on December 11, 2016:

Will you please update the chart to include the new Men's 512 courdoroy?

Rayne on September 05, 2016:

Thank you very much for putting up this article. Very helpful!

Dave Neame on July 27, 2013:

Man' thank you so much, I haven't had a clue what jeans were what re Levi's for ages! Either the jeans were half way up my stomach like my grandpa's or I can't fit into the legs as I'm a well built guy. I am grateful for some explanation thanks. I prefer the waistband to not be so high and I like a stretch jean for comfort in the thigh area if possible. The last ones I tried to buy were for the thinner legged guy, I have larger legs and cannot fit the 'skinny jean' style. I would love some assistance please. Many thanks, Dave (Sussex, England)

Lisa on May 16, 2013:

Looking for levis for my husband who has a large waist (40) but has no rear end and skinny bird legs. Can you help me with which Levi's to buy?

princesswithapen (author) on October 03, 2011:

That's right, the 501s are really what a simple and great pair of jeans should be and they fit well on men with athletic bodies. I'm glad you found this hub useful, Husky.

P

Husky1970 on October 02, 2011:

Being athletic and not caring for bling, I guess I have to go for the classic 501. So, I'm just a regular guy with a simple sense of style. Thanks for this useful hub for guys, princesswithapen. Voted accorsingly.

Having worked in retail, I know how difficult it can be to decipher size tags. Hence this handy pant-size guide!

Understanding Women's Pants Sizes

Buying a pair of pants shouldn't be rocket science, but in this day and age, finding a pair that actually fits well seems a whole lot more complicated than it should. From confusing combinations of numbers to a seemingly endless number of fits, rises, and degrees of stretch, how is one to find the right pair of pants?

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about women's pants, from W/L sizes and conversion charts to fit, rise, stretch, and what it means for a pair of pants to be "tall." We'll even go over some foolproof tips for buying pants online (and getting it right the first time around!).

W/L Pant Sizes Explained

Has anyone ever walked into a clothing store and seen a pair of pants with sizing that looks like a math problem? 28 x 33? What does that mean? Let's look at this "equation" another way.

Pant sizes listed as 28 x 33, 28/33, or W28/L33 refer to waist width (W) and leg length (L). So how do you figure out what your W and L are?

How to Measure Your Waist and Inseam

• Waist (W): Starting at the top of your hip bone, bring the tape measure around your body, keeping level with your belly button. Keep the tape measure straight and even, and do not attempt to pull it tight. Exhale and check the number.
• Leg Length/Inseam (L): Fold your best-fitting pants lengthwise on a flat surface and measure from the crotch seam to the hem. OR, wearing a pair of close-fitting pants (e.g. athletic pants or tight jeans), have someone measure from your crotch seam to the floor.

Here is a little cheat sheet if you do not want to attempt the math, though if you want pants that truly fit well, it's worth taking the time to do the measurements.

Note: Bear in mind that the charts below show average sizes and conversions; in order to get a better idea of how a particular pair of pants will fit, consult that brand's size chart.

Women's Pants Size Chart (Waist/Hips)

Plus Women's Pant Size Chart

Women's Pants Size Conversion Chart

A Quick Guide to Different Pant Fits

Now ladies! Before you buy, remember to also take into account the cut of the jeans! Here's an explanation of several of today's popular cuts.

Junior Fit

A Junior Fit runs pretty small. This cut fits the kind of body that has very little curve anywhere, like a Cameron Diaz body frame. It fits fairly snug all the way down to the calves, and so gives the illusion of a butt to those who need one.

Please, ladies, do not be alarmed if you have to go up a size to find a Junior Fit you can wear; it is okay, it's a Junior Fit.

Regular Fit

A Regular Fit works for many body types. It is usually low-cut and slightly relaxed in the thighs, and it fits the same all the way down. It's relaxed compared to a Junior Fit but tighter than a Boyfriend Fit. A 29 is a 29 in this fit; it's very easy to size!

Boyfriend Fit

Hopefully the name says it all. Men tend to like low-rise jeans that are loose-fitting, due to the extra equipment they have, and many women like these pants too. This is a low-waisted cut, VERY relaxed, but still emphasizing the rear.

This is a great cut for pear-shaped builds or women with athletic thighs. Ladies, this cut can make us feel like we ran a marathon. You can choose a size two sizes smaller than usual with this fit!

Curvy Fit

This, my friends, is a high-waisted cut, so for all you women with the big booty, don't be afraid—there are pants out there for you!

This fit is generally fuller in the hips and thighs, though it may still be tight through the legs, so if you have thick thighs (go you!) I would avoid this fit. But if you like the snug look, then try this cut on! Typically, you'll want to try one size larger with this fit, unless the material stretches.

Bootcut vs. Flare

"Bootcut" means a little extra room below the knee, and "flare" means more extra room below the knee. Bootcut and flare pants usually fit pretty close above the knee.

Skinny Leg

Skinny-leg pants have a slim fit all the way to the ankle (vs. straight-leg pants, which give the knees and ankles more breathing room). These are a great choice for ladies who to show off their figure!

High- vs. Mid- vs. Low-Rise Pants

• High-Rise: Typically worn above the belly button, well-tailored high rises really show off your curves. But be careful not to get them too tight, as they can cinch sharply at the waist.
• Mid-Rise: This classic fit usually sits a few inches below your waist, but still above your hips, and is typically flattering for most body types. Mid-rise pants provide more rear coverage than low-rise pants (i.e. no visible undies!) without cinching in at the waist.
• Low-Rise: Low-rise pants sit right on the hips, roughly three inches below the belly button, making it the most likely rise to create the dreaded muffin-top effect. But sizing up to prevent squeezing only increases the likelihood of exposing your undies, so tread carefully with this rise.

If you're still experimenting with cuts and rises, here are some tips on how to find the best pants for your body type.

Different Types of Stretch in Denim

Who knew shopping for a pair of pants could be so complicated? In addition to waist, inseam, fit, and rise, you also have to account for stretch!

Raw Denim

Also known as dry or unwashed denim, raw denim is not subject to any washing or distressing prior to being made into jeans. It goes straight from the loom to the sewing machine to the shelf.

This type of denim is unique in that it will stretch and mold to your unique shape (right down to the creases) . . . as long as you abide by the breaking-in process. In order to get shrink-to-fit jeans to mold to your body, some sites recommend that you abstain from washing them for a whopping six months after the initial sizing wash! If you're an STF first-timer, here's a guide on how to break in raw denim jeans.

Note: When it comes to raw denim jeans, it's critical to buy the right size. It's recommended that you size up accordingly.

100% Cotton Denim

100% cotton denim will always stretch, and washing/drying them on hot will only shrink them temporarily (not to mention shorten their lifespan in the long run). If you want 100% cotton jeans, you have three options:

• buy them really small, then wet-stretch them;
• go for a slouchy fit to begin with;
• or buy a used pair at your local thrift store.

98/2 Stretch Blends

Denim made of 98% cotton and 2% elastane/lycra still stretch, but not as badly as 100% cotton denim. With these, your best bet is to buy them quite tight and wait for them to stretch as you wear them (ouch!).

Note: Unlike with 100% cotton denim, washing and drying 98/2 jeans on hot is an absolute no-no. Whereas it temporarily stretches the former, it will damage the elastic in the latter, meaning they'll be even baggier than they were before.

Cotton/Poly Blends

These blends, usually comprised of 60% cotton and 40% polyester, are less popular than they used to be, but you may still see them out there from time to time. This kind of denim is fairly stiff, so while it tends to hold its shape and resist stretching out, it isn't the comfiest to wear.

4-Way-Stretch Denim

This type of denim is designed to stretch in four different directions, then snap right back to its original shape. Jeans made from this material tend to be super comfy and stretchy, but without any bagginess after wear.

Super Stretch (Jeggings)

While super-stretch jeggings might feel just like your favorite pair of yoga pants, they are likely to stretch and get baggy, just like the first two types of denim on this list. You may fare okay if you buy super-stretch jeans from a high-end brand, but even then, a quality brand is no guarantee with this material; you might end up shelling out your hard-earned cash for a pair of jeans that will have a baggy booty before you know it.

Other Stretchy Fabrics Used for Pants

Petite vs. Regular vs. Tall Pants

These sizes are based on average ranges for short, tall, and average height for women. This can affect length and rise in pants, so it may be worth trying pants in your height category.

• Petite: 5' to 5'3" (152.5 cm to 160 cm)
• Regular: 5'5" to 5'7" (165 cm to 170 cm)
• Tall: 5'8" and above (173+ cm)

Note: If you frequently wear heels, remember to factor that in when deciding whether to go for petite, regular, or tall pants!

4 Tips for Buying Pants Online

Don't have the time (or desire) to shop for pants in a brick-and-mortar store? There are tons of great options to choose from online, but in order to avoid the frustration of ordering an ill-fitting pair of pants and having to go through the return rigamarole, here are a few helpful tips to follow.

1. Know Your Waist and Hip Measurements

Break out the tape measure and take down your waist and hip size. If you don't have a tape measure, you can use a piece of string (or even a shoelace!) and measure it with a ruler after. Whatever way you choose to do it, knowing your measurements will make shopping for pants online 1000% easier.

2. Measure a Pair a Pants You Already Own

In addition to measuring your own waist and hips, it doesn't hurt to take the measurements of a pair of pants you already know fit great. So grab your favorite pair and do the math. For waist size, measure the back waistband and multiply by 2. For the hip size, measure across the front of the pants at the base of the zipper (see photos above).

3. Consult the Size Chart and Customer Reviews

These days, most companies have their own size charts, and thank goodness for that! Sizes vary so much by brand that it's nigh on impossible to take your pant size from one brand to another and end up with the right size. So instead of going by another brand's pant size, compare your individual measurements with the size chart instead.

It can also help to check what other customers think; some brands even have an easy chart of what reviewers thought of the fit (e.g. true to size, feels a full size too small, feels a half size too big, etc.).

4. Buy Multiple Pairs in Different Sizes

For sites with a hassle-free return policy, it may be worth your time to order the same pair of pants in a couple of sizes. That way, you have a better chance of finding one that fits without multiple exchanges. Just return the pair that doesn't fit!

A Note on "Vanity Sizing"

Part of what makes buying pants (or any item of clothing, for that matter) harder today than it used to be is vanity sizing—a relatively new phenomenon where retailers increase the size of their garments while retaining the same tag (e.g. a pair of pants you think has a 36-inch waist might actually have a 41-inch waist). Unfortunately, this attempt to make customers feel better only ends up making it more difficult to find apparel that fits.

For more on this troubling trend, check out "You've Been Fooled: Vanity Sizing and Why Clothes Don't Fit".

Resources

• Pants Size Conversion Charts + Size Guide for Men & Women.
• Petite, Regular or Tall Sizes. (2012, October 30).
• Stretch Fabric Guide.
• The Different Types Of Stretch In Denim. (2017, May 30).

© 2011 Kschmidt

Comments

Teresa on March 14, 2020:

Just want to know what a 47 inch waist what size pants and not all that stupid extra s***

http://ikinohd.club/ - Bing on February 20, 2020:

Microsoft - Official Home Page

Sarah Mahammad from Minnesota on February 04, 2018:

Your ideas about how we should fit skinny jeans, and what kind of sizes of it we should pick whenever shopping at stores was so helpful for me as an athlete girl, having a beautiful and blessed body that's not too skinny, and yet not curvy in places. I've always known how to pick dresses, active outfits, hoodies, and oats perfectly. But when it comes to picking up skinny jeans, feel confused sometimes about sizing with feeling comfortable in skinny jeans, My skinny jeans size is 3-4 But sometimes pick 5 because I sometime dislike being in a too tight pants. And all my choices so far in skinny jeans were perfectly beautiful on me, as long as I'm staying stand by :) but whenever I sit down on a chair get up, I have to tide me up little bit, so I can continue looking great. It was a long journey of wondering "How can I pick skinny jeans & stay feeling comfortable in it?". And You almost answered my questions about the topic. Just wanted to let you know how thankful I'm for reading your previous articles, and wrote down the numbers, and using them at some stores at MOA!! Items I picked up after your article are so perfect for me, and in the same time feel comfortable. I'm so grateful and thankful and happy that I no longer make sure of my look whenever the class is finished, and I get off the chair. So grateful for finding your answers when I came across the web, googling a long term wondering question about what type of skinny jeans is for me?! Also like to thank you for the valuable side tips of paying attn. to the jeans weight first, then the brand name, then the price at the end. May you already have a wonderful life!! Much Love!!!

MaryParamoure on January 25, 2018:

Do you have size 18 WP pants because I am short. I have trouble finding pants that I do not have to spend money

Michelle on March 24, 2017:

This is not very accurate... I wear a size 4-6 dress, am 5'7"/5'8", and I wear a 28 x 33. I used to be a seamstress; the first number is the measurement of the circumference of your waist/hips, and the second number is what's known as your inseam--the measurement from the ground to your crotch (on the inside of your leg). You really can't guess your waist by adding 20! Especially with pant sizes nowadays!

elizabeth palmer on October 29, 2016:

I'm 5' and I weigh 86 lbs, my work pants say 29 I was wondering what size I would be? And what style would the name of the jeans that are tight in the butt all the way down to the knee then kinda flares out a little?

kadylady520 on August 01, 2016:

I'm sad to see that according to your chart women don't wear pants bigger than size 18! really sad.

maria on May 01, 2015:

Im a 32 waist and 38 hips what size jeans would I wear?

Kschmidt (author) from Texas on September 27, 2011:

I hope it works out! If you have anymore questions then just give me a hollar! Was in retail for awhile :) glad to be here!

Debbie Carey from Riverton, KS, USA on September 26, 2011:

Hmmm....Can't wait to get into the 218 pair of jeans in my office and see how close this is....sounds accurate! Lots of information and very well thought out! Good job and welcome to HubPages! Voted up, useful and interesting! Good luck!!

Jeannie has been writing online for over 10 years. She covers a wide variety of topics - hobbies, opinions, dating advice, and more!

Leggings Are Everywhere

Leggings are a fashion trend that just won't go away. They were quite popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Due to a lot of what I would like to call "Leggings Abuse," the fad went out of style. They started to make a comeback again a few years ago, though. While I was excited to see them reappear (since I still had some perfectly nice pairs in my closet), I knew the inevitable would happen: the abuse would begin again. Sadly, some people do not know how to properly wear them. Those folks tend to ruin it for all of us and give leggings a bad name.

You can see it at any mall. There are people walking around wearing leggings and short shirts. Some people have even decided they can wear tights and pretend they are leggings. There are even some girls wearing jeggings, as if they are skinny jeans. No, no, no! None of this is acceptable. If everyone is going to keep committing these crimes of fashion, companies will stop making leggings again and we will all suffer. Sometimes, it just takes a few rotten apples to spoil the whole bunch. So before this happens, please take the time to read the about the proper way to wear leggings. It could save us all!

Cover It Up!

Leggings are very forgiving pants. You can gain or lose plenty of weight, but the leggings will stretch right along with you. Because of this, they are perfect for people of all sizes. Yes, I said it. Anyone can wear them. Some people will tell you plus size women should not wear leggings. This is simply not true. As long as any woman is wearing them properly, a woman of any size can find them to look flattering.

First and foremost, wear a long shirt! This is the basic rule of leggings. You want to wear a long shirt, preferably a tunic. Tunics are made with leggings in mind. Make sure to buy your long shirt so it goes about two inches below your rear end. Yes, that is why they exist. It is just not proper to walk around making us look at your butt. Some dudes might want to see it, but to be honest, no one's butt (no matter how much you work out!) looks too good in leggings. It just simply leaves nothing to the imagination. So cover it up! Let's not even mention no one wants to see the front region either while you are wearing them. Just remember to cover it up, girls!

Second, you can achieve this same look with a cute dress, a sweater dress, or a short skirt. Sometimes a skirt or a dress is just too short to look appropriate unless you are wearing leggings under it. Leggings are often a quick fix for the, "Is this skirt too short?" dilemma. The bottom line is you are still keeping the private regions covered and that is the correct way to wear them.

Jeggings Are Not Jeans

Jeggings are like leggings' weird second cousins. I don't recall jeggings being around when leggings originally became popular, but nonetheless, they are cute and most of us have embraced them. Just keep in mind, they are still not jeans, even if they are made to look like denim. Also, please remember they are not skinny jeans either. So please don't treat them as such. Treat them the same way you would treat leggings. The same "cover it up" rules apply.

Tights Are Not Leggings

Sure, we all have some really thick tights in a dresser somewhere. That does not make them leggings. Tights go under skirts and dresses. They are not pants at all. Tights should not ever be considered pants and worn without a skirt, dress, or a pair of shorts if you are feeling really bold. However, there are those of you that attempt to push the limits of good taste.

Oh yes, I have seen you at the mall. You are wearing hot pink tights, a shirt, and polka dot underwear. You know who you are! Stop doing that. Clearly you are wearing tights since everyone can see your underwear. It does not look stylish or trendy. Instead, people pity you because they think you walked out your house without remembering to put your skirt on. It is embarrassing.

Tunics Are Not Dresses

I know this is an article about leggings, but while I am on the subject of styles gone wrong, I want to point out a disturbing new leggings-related fashion error. I've noticed some younger women, like college students, are starting to wear tunics as if they are actual dresses. No!

I realize some websites are calling tunics "tunic dresses," but they are still intended to be worn with leggings. The same way the photo above shows the leggings without a shirt or tunic covering it properly, that is merely for display purposes. The same goes for any photo showing off just a tunic without leggings. Please do not go out sporting a tunic without a pair of leggings. We can tell it is not a real dress. You might think us older chicks are just out of style, but that is not the case. We just know you cannot wear a tunic without some pants. Please do us all a favor and put some leggings on underneath your tunic.

The World Thanks You!

Not only do I thank you for taking the time to read all about the proper way to wear leggings, I also thank you if you follow these rules. As a matter of fact, I am sure the world thanks you for properly wearing them from now on. Now go out there and wear some leggings!

Leggings Crime of Fashion Poll

© 2011 Jeannie Marie

Comments

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on March 29, 2016:

Dolores Monet, I have the same problem with tops. I have a long torso, but short legs. I can wear a tunic or a short dress just like a regular top sometimes.

bcamnb, you may have to hem them to make them a little shorter. It may also be possible to tuck them under, but I am not sure if they will stay. I must admit I use boots as a solution to that problem.

bcamnb on March 23, 2016:

what do you do when your leggings (black) are way too long? and you do not want to wear boots?

Thanks

Dolores Monet from East Coast, United States on March 15, 2016:

Well I'll miss the whole tunic and leggings trend. I have an awful time finding tops that are long enough. So many are so short that I can't reach up without showing my midsection and at my age, it ain't something ya really wanna see. A nice long tunic covers it all up and is so comfortable!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on June 09, 2014:

I've noticed people not wearing long shirts with leggings so much anymore. Although I still think you need to keep things covered up some, I know you are not alone with this opinion. Thanks for dropping by!

Crissylite on June 09, 2014:

I like wearing leggings because they're comfortable, but I wearing them without a long shirt would feel sooo weird. Love the article.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on June 06, 2014:

Victoria Lynn - I used to wear them in the 80s and now I am wearing them again. They are great pants since I like to have a variety of pants to wear and leggings are so cheap. Also, they are very forgiving when a person gains a little weight or has a big meal. As a matter of fact, I think I have been thinking about leggings too much lately - I am actually writing an entirely new hub about leggings. I also target yoga pants in this one, too. I expect I will be done with it around Monday or Tuesday. Thanks for the votes!

DzyMsLizzy - Oh no, the stirrup pants! I remember those. They were so awkward because you had to be the perfect height for them. If you were a little too tall, it would basically keeping pulling your pants down all day. I remember that weird pocket that would form at the top of my legs as those pants tried to go south all day long. I hope they never make a comeback!!! Thanks for the vote and thanks for the comment.

Liz Elias from Oakley, CA on June 05, 2014:

Laughed my rear off! Well, metaphorically speaking anyway. (Regrettably not actually possible. LOL)

I remember these--but we never called them "leggings," they were just "stretch pants."

And even further back, there were 'stirrup pants' which were the same exact thing, but with a sling at the bottom that fitted under you foot, holding the pants from creeping upwards. Oh. I'm dating myself now!

Voted up and funny!

Victoria Lynn from Arkansas, USA on June 05, 2014:

My thoughts exactly! I wore leggings in the 80s--with long, very long, shirts. I don't like them anymore now. I prefer looser clothing these days. Women wearing leggings as pants drives me CRAZY. What are they thinking? Especially in a professional setting. Oh, I feel your pain! :-)

Lots of votes, including funny, of course!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on May 06, 2014:

Usually skinny people can still make leggings work for them. One of my friends wears a really long shirt or dress over leggings and then puts boots on. The boots give the appearance that your legs are not as skinny. Hope that works for you!

Sophia Angel from Salt Lake City, Utah on May 06, 2014:

Impressive article, I am too skinny whenever I wear leggings my leg look like a toothpick so what could be the alternative that I can wear? Or how to make leggings suits on me.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 14, 2014:

Thank you so much. I also have one about the pajamas, too. https://discover.hubpages.com/literature/Pajamas-i :-)

KHinms on January 14, 2014:

Well said!!! Now could you please address the people who insist on going out in public (to the grocery store and else where) in their Pajamas and slippers??????

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on November 01, 2013:

Thanks so much. I've gained some weight recently, so leggings are my best pants right now... they stretch right along with me.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on December 06, 2012:

I think someone that does not know how to even spell the word ridiculous might not want to judge me. I am trying to help others not look ridiculous when wearing things in an inappropriate way that grosses out the rest of society. Have a nice day!

Althea2213 on December 06, 2012:

Oh dear. How rediculous you sound. How about you let others wear things the way they want. I hate it when people are so insistant about the right and wrong ways to wear things. Its quite pathetic really

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on August 18, 2012:

Thanks so much! I am happy you enjoyed it.

idigwebsites from United States on August 18, 2012:

Very informative and helpful hub. Thanks! :)

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on August 06, 2012:

Sunshine625 - I think with a long shirt or a skirt, leggings can look good on adults, but it is all about the style of the leggings and how it compliments the rest of the outfit. I've seen some horrific leggings nightmares at the mall. For this reason, leggings are bound to go out of style soon for the rest of us. Thanks for the comment!

glorgeousmom - Many teenagers already know the right and wrong way to wear leggings, but there are some that need a little assistance. Thanks for sharing this with your daughter. Even though it sounds like she doesn't need the help, she probably knows girls that do. :-) Thanks for the vote up!

Glo L Bernadas from Philippines on August 06, 2012:

Thanks for the timely useful information you shared with us. I will be sharing this with my teen-aged daughter who is fond of wearing leggings, though there is not much to worry about but just in case she forgot and goes overboard:)) Voted up.

Linda Bilyeu from Orlando, FL on August 05, 2012:

There should be an age limit on who wears leggings. Under ten yrs old, maybe younger. I've never seen anyone over the age of ten look good in a pair of leggings. Fab hub!!:)

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on August 05, 2012:

Thank you for getting on board with me on this one. In a perfect world, everyone would follow the rules of leggings. I know it isn't happening when I see the way people are dressed at the mall, but I can only do so much. Thanks for the comment!

Sarah Chewings from Nottingham, England on August 05, 2012:

I think there are a few people I work with who could do with reading this... I love my leggings, but only ever wear them out of my house with a long top, or a woolen dress and boots. I wouldn't inflict my horrendous backside on anyone!!!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on August 04, 2012:

Trust me, I see the same look in the U.S. all the time. I am not just talking about skinny or average sized girls either. Sigh.

Thanks for linking my article. I appreciate it!

Rebecca on August 04, 2012:

Great article, if only more people would pay attention! Walking down any street in England, you're pretty much guaranteed to see a girl wearing poor quality, black leggings as if they were skinny jeans - normally with white underwear underneath which you can see all too much of. I hope you don't mind but I've linked to your article in one of my Hubs (10 Tips and Tricks to Help You Find Your Style).

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on April 30, 2012:

That is cool. :-) Thanks for sharing, Jazzy Cakes!

Jazzy Cakes from Montreal on April 30, 2012:

What I mean is that this is just the style with teenage girls today.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on April 29, 2012:

I suspect you and your classmates are really skinny and can get away with it to some degree. It still doesn't mean it is a good idea, but I see it everyday and appreciate you admitting you do it. Thanks for sharing.

Jazzy Cakes from Montreal on April 28, 2012:

On the contrary, girls at my school (although it might be for the reason that I am still a student) have worn leggings/jeggings and treated them as normal bottoms (so have I) I think there is nothing wrong with wearing leggings with normal shirts (in fact I've been doing it for a long time. I appreciate you views and opinions but it doesn't mean I'm going to stop. I think it looks really good :)

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on March 14, 2012:

I'm really happy I could help. If I can just change one life at a time with this hub, I feel good. I hope she takes your advice. Tunics were created for a reason. Thanks for dropping by!

Brandi Goodman from Holland, MI on March 14, 2012:

I definitely need to show this hub to my younger sister! She's 14 and she is one of those girls who wears leggings with short shirts and also wears jeggings as jeans. I tell her it looks ridiculous and she just won't listen to me. I'm showing her this for sure! Thanks for the humorous yet very informative read. :)

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on March 01, 2012:

Yes, Shaina, feel free to buy some leggings and just simply wear them the right way. Too many people are exposing the world to way too much! With a long shirt or tunic, leggings look great. Thanks for dropping by and happy I could help!

Shaina Rodriguez from Wisconsin on March 01, 2012:

You've done a very good job with this and I enjoyed reading! I've been meaning to get leggings but then I go to the mall and notice how horrible most of the girls make them look there. Now I know for sure that they aren't ment to be worn those ways. Thanks for letting me know I can wear leggings without joining the circus!!! =D

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 29, 2012:

Thanks! I am glad you think so. I can't believe some of the interesting looks I see when I am out. Even just a tag that says, "No one wants to see your butt; wear a tunic." attached to each pair of leggings might be enough. :-)

jenniferg78 from Philadelphia, PA on January 29, 2012:

this should be required reading attached to every pair of leggings sold world-wide! Great hub.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 27, 2012:

I am glad I inspired you to try them again with tunics. It can be a great look. Thanks for reading and thanks for the comment!

BeautyAndTheRest on January 27, 2012:

Very useful !!! I stopped wearing them cuz i thought i looked really fat in them. After reading your article, i just want to get a proper tunic for them !! I want to buy more leggings yay !!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 26, 2012:

Thank you so much. I am glad you are on board with my mission, too. Everyone should wear leggings the correct way! Thank you for your support.

Marlene Bertrand from USA on January 26, 2012:

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I hope people take your tips with them the next time they are out shopping for leggings. Get it right, ladies. Get it right. Print out Jeannieinabottle's tips and tape them to your full length mirror to make sure you follow the rules of leggings to a "T".

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 26, 2012:

You know the correct way to wear leggings! Thanks for sharing with everyone. That way, anyone that is in doubt can read how you wear them and do the same.

VioletSun from Oregon/ Name: Marie on January 25, 2012:

I wear black leggings in the summer at times, but with long, stylish tops and nice accessories to match. I love them as they are comfortable and gives me freedom of movement.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 24, 2012:

Yes, I do think a warning label might help out people buying leggings. Maybe then they would understand how to wear them correctly. And no, you are not alone at all with your opinion on leggings... many agree with you. I do also agree with you on stores having more long top options. Sometimes I buy a long top, yet it shrinks after one wash!

Thanks for dropping by and sharing!

Jean-ette on January 24, 2012:

No wonder they go out of fashion. Maybe they should come attached with a warning! I can't believe the sights I see walking around the mall and even in the work place. Thanks for speaking up on this subject. I thought it was me not being open minded! It would be nice to have more long tops in the stores to choose from though.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 23, 2012:

Oh Jennifer, you've opened up a whole new subject. I've actually debated this myself as to whether yoga pants are leggings, and if so, do different rules apply to them? I have been known to wear yoga pants and not keep my rear end covered. Gasp! However, since they are thicker, I think this is more acceptable. I am honestly not sure. I am considering investigating this subject further for a future hub. Thanks for the vote up and for the comment!

Jennifer Essary from Idaho on January 23, 2012:

I guess I consider my yoga pants to be a part of the legging family. They're a staple for my around the house mommy look. I didn't wear many leggings when they were in fashion in the 80's and they're not any easier to find now. For them to be long enough I need a 35" inseam. A top that is long enough to cover my bottom is just as much trouble. I'll wear leggings under ski pants or around the house, but I do wear yoga pants to the grocery store sometimes. When you see people there in their mismatched pajamas and house shoes I don't feel like I've fallen too far off the fashion mark. Thanks for sharing your fashion tips. Voted up and sharing!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 23, 2012:

Thanks for the votes up! Leggings are so cute if worn the right way. Thanks for helping promote my hub. :-)

Dorsi Diaz from The San Francisco Bay Area on January 23, 2012:

Voted up up and up! I love leggings - my favorite look is my black leggings with ankle boots - long shirt and cute vest! I LOVE it!!

Plus 1 and tweeted!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 23, 2012:

Saiorse - Wow, thank you for being brave enough to admit you are one of the people that shows off without the tunic! It is not necessarily the panty lines that offends people though... it is the leaving nothing to the imagination part of it. Some things are just not meant to be seen by everyone. But thank you for stepping up and admitting you proudly wear your leggings without the long shirt. I see this look everyday, so I know there are people out there doing it.

Saiorse on January 22, 2012:

I hate to admit that I am old enough to have worn leggings, in the 1980's in high school. Back then, we never thought about pantylines, and I have to admit that I showed more than my share, in grey, and white leggings back then!!

With the fashion trends coming back to tight, unforgiving leggings, showing every little 'evil' bit of the chocolate that we adore, why hide all of the soft, cuddly parts, under tunics? My Fiancé loves when I wear tight leggings, with a visible pantyline!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 22, 2012:

I am happy you both agree. I am hoping to force everyone to wear leggings the right way so not to offend the public. Thanks for reading and for the comments!

Elder DeBorrah K Ogans on January 22, 2012:

Jeannieinabottle, Great legging tips! You have made some suggestions that will be helpful to many! Leggings are wonderful and can be "flattering" when worn tastefully... Thank you for sharing, Peace & Blessings!

L4 BYG from Essex on January 22, 2012:

Totally agree with your comments - leggings can be very flattering if worn the right way!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 22, 2012:

Thanks for reading and thanks for the comment!

m from New Zealand on January 22, 2012:

lol I found it amusing and I totally agree.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on January 19, 2012:

I am glad you are on board with me on this one. I believe improper use of leggings is what ruined the fad the first time around. They are so comfortable and it is a shame that people don't get it. Everyone must stop abusing the look and wear some long sweaters. My eyes can't take it much more! Thanks for dropping by!

imatellmuva from Somewhere in Baltimore on January 18, 2012:

HERE...HERE!!! My brother and I were discussing a campaign to ban skinny jeans; I added leggings to the ban because I am distraught nearly everytime I leave my house.

The fashion police needs to be ever present on this matter! What I've seen is downright undignified and uncivilized!

Thank you Jeannineianbottle for yet another high quality hub!!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on November 20, 2011:

Yes, I hope with this advice we can keep the leggings trend going. They are just so comfortable and affordable. I have seen some really scary leggings fashions out there. I suppose some people are not taking my advice. Thanks for reading and voting my hub up!

Helen Murphy Howell from Fife, Scotland on November 20, 2011:

Great hub Jeannie and here's hoping it will give longer life to our wonderful and 'forgiving' leggings. I do agree with everything you have said about wearing leggings wrongly - omg the sights you see out on the street is vomit inducing!!! The sad part about it, is that I'm sure these women think they look good - but the opposite is true!!

A really wonderful hub + voted up!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on November 13, 2011:

Well, I am glad we agree on this. I was sure someone was going to insist wearing leggings without a tunic or dress is OK, but everyone is on the same page that comments. It is interesting that I still see folks doing this though. Maybe they are not reading this hub. :-) Thanks for the comment!

writingfrosh from Philippines on November 12, 2011:

I love leggings too, I wear them with long shirts, tunics or short dresses. Not that I wore leggings in the 80s (I'm just a baby in that decade), but I totally agree with you jeannie, I also don't like the fashion faux pas that comes with leggings - it is not nice to look at from all angles!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on October 04, 2011:

Well, at least the mystery is solved.

ThoughtSandwiches from Reno, Nevada on October 04, 2011:

Yes...yes I have...

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on October 03, 2011:

Have you been wearing your hat as pants? That could be the problem.

ThoughtSandwiches from Reno, Nevada on October 03, 2011:

uh-oh indeed...what's worse...I now don't seem to have a proper hat...

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on October 03, 2011:

Uh-oh.

ThoughtSandwiches from Reno, Nevada on October 03, 2011:

pants...?

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on October 03, 2011:

Oh no! I am glad you read this hub then. I certainly hope you've at least been wearing the leggings as pants. I hope you did not mistaken them for a hat!

ThoughtSandwiches from Reno, Nevada on October 03, 2011:

Well...I am embarrassed to say that I have been wearing leggings all wrong. In fact, I'm pretty sure I was the cause of it's disappearance in the early 90s... Thank you for helping me put the right leg(ging) forward in this regard. Honestly...how did I ever manage prior to finding your Hubs??

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 30, 2011:

Thanks for reading and for sharing some leggings memories. I also had leggings back in the day and I still have a couple of pairs. I can even fit into to them; they just don't look exactly the same on me now. I would say they are not quite a flattering as they once were. Hehe.

Evita Andrianni from New Zealand on September 30, 2011:

Just recently got back into leggings.The last time I wore them was, well, when you said they were popular (too scared to say the year). And the only reason I've put them on was because I got myself couple of dresses which tend to "travel up my legs" and look a bit ...inappropriate.

I love your hub, made me travel back in time and gave me more courage to jump into my leggings. Yes, I loved the way you described stretchy leggings as forgiving!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 27, 2011:

Thanks for reading and for the comment. I really like leggings since they are very forgiving pants. You can gain or lose a few pounds, but they will just stretch along with you.

The Fastionista on September 27, 2011:

Great advice, Jeannie! Leggings can definitely be hard to grasp, but I think when they're worn properly they're a great option. Thanks for the Hub!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 21, 2011:

Yes, short shirts and leggings are not a good look. Most people agree with me on this subject, yet when I walked through the mall yesterday, I saw so many people with that look. I guess I just have to try to reach one person at a time. Thanks for reading and for the comment!

Injured lamb on September 20, 2011:

I never do that before with the short shirts and leggings together as I find it an uneasy and impolite way of match...thanks Jeannie for letting us to know more about legging...

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 20, 2011:

I am shocked at how many people I see in public wearing short shirts and leggings together. It is usually not a pretty sight. You are right - leggings are intended for short dresses and sweater dresses. Thanks for reading and thanks for the comment.

CennyWenny from Washington on September 20, 2011:

Thanks for the hub! I adore leggings, especially now that I'm pregnant again, but they are a way to make short dresses and sweater dresses work. I don't think I could even wear a short shirt and leggings around the house!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 20, 2011:

Yes, there are some things best left to the imagination. Thanks for the votes and the comment!

Debbie Carey from Riverton, KS, USA on September 19, 2011:

I love my leggings and you have it right on! Leggings ARE for under tunics and long shirts! Thanks for a good hub filled with good advice! Voted up and useful!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 19, 2011:

Thanks for reading and for the comment!

LULU SUE1987 on September 19, 2011:

Great fashion advice, thanks.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 19, 2011:

Thanks... personally, I could live without Coach bags. Some of their shoes are cute though. Thanks for the comment!

freelifestyle on September 19, 2011:

Nice pants!!

There is also a beautiful bagCoach bag

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 17, 2011:

Yes, perhaps a famous actress then. You are allowed to be curvy if you are an actress. :-)

Becky Katz from Hereford, AZ on September 17, 2011:

Not likely to become a super model. lol! The poor girl is too endowed and curvy. They are all stick thin and boy straight. Maybe a famous actress.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 17, 2011:

That is a really good point. I am sure at that height it is tough finding something long enough for her. Maybe she will become a super model! But for now, yes, leggings are a must. Thanks for reading and thanks for the comment!

Becky Katz from Hereford, AZ on September 16, 2011:

My daughter bought a dress(shirt) that was so short I wouldn't let her wear it without leggings. She is 5'10", just 14 and has a hard time finding dresses long enough. She now has a colorful variety of leggings. She is allowed to wear the dress(shirt).

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 15, 2011:

Thank you for your comment!

exinco from Malaysia on September 14, 2011:

leggings was another body art

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 12, 2011:

Thank you for your comment and thanks for using the word "tush." I was trying to think of a nicer word than "butt" for this hub, but "tush" never occurred to me. That is way nicer!

Sorry to hear about your accident. That is horrible! I hope you are doing OK now.

Thanks for the comment!

AutumnJo from WI(Formerly IL, formerly PA) on September 12, 2011:

This is a great hub! I completely agree with you: Cover the tush!

I used to be a weightlifter/body builder from ages 14-22 until I broke my hip (my pelvis was split literally in half) in July 2010 when a machine malfunctioned and crashed down on me. Since then my once firm and toned body has gotten a little mushy... but the leggings are forgiving of that!

If I go out I ALWAYS have a long tunic on, or a longer sweater (sweater dress) with a thick belt in the middle. It allows me to keep a feminine look while still covering up. They are a true asset in the closet if worn right!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 12, 2011:

This hub has turned out to be much more popular than I anticipated. A lot of women have strong opinions about leggings. I do know what you mean about jeggings vs. skinny jeans confusion. When I went to put the Amazon ads up, there was a pair of skinny jeans being advertised as jeggings. I changed the keywords a bit and fixed it. I can't confuse readers like that! I am trying to help the leggings wearers of the world, not confuse them. Thanks for the vote up!

Veronica from New York on September 12, 2011:

So many people need to read this hub! I will say though that a lot of companies are calling things jeggings that really are skinny jeans. I have a pair from Levi that have denim and are thick, even hang like jeans but Levi says they are jeggings...but even so I still wear with shirts that hang. I typically wear babydoll and loose fitting shirts ANYWAY so I always follow this rule. Voted up!

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 12, 2011:

Oh dear! I suppose when it's put like that, maybe some gals should stay away. But once again, if they bought the correct size, I am optimistic they could make it work. But then again, maybe I am not witnessing what you are seeing. Leggings are so cute, but there is so much leggings abuse! Thanks for reading and for your comment.

Angie Jardine from Cornwall, land of the eternally youthful mind ... on September 12, 2011:

A timely hub, Jeannie ... but I really do think that there are girls out there who should not wear leggings under any circumstances.

Sadly they do not realise this and think that a tunic makes it all right. To them I would say ... 'If every seam is under intense strain, stay away from the leggings and tunic combo. You have been warned!'

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 12, 2011:

Thank you both for your comments. Leggings and jeggings have become so popular. They really do look flattering when worn the right way.

Emma from UK on September 12, 2011:

OI. I like Jeggings missus.My legs are the only skinny part on me, lol.

I am usually found in my jeans though. Great hub, made me laugh very much.

Movie Master from United Kingdom on September 12, 2011:

Hi Jeannie, Leggings are so popular here in the UK, everybody is wearing them! Like Cloverleaf I have never worn them out before, because I too felt self conscious!

Great hub and voting up and useful.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 11, 2011:

There is no need to feel self-conscious. Now you can go out there in public and wear leggings wherever you go. Well, maybe not everywhere, but you get the idea. Thanks for the comment and the votes!

Cloverleaf from Calgary, AB, Canada on September 11, 2011:

Great fashion advice, Jeannie! I've always stuck to only wearing leggings around the house, mostly just because they are comfy. I think I've always been afraid of wearing them outdoors because I feel self-conscious!!! But now I know how to wear them properly, so thank you! UP/useful

Cloverleaf.

Jeannie Marie (author) from Baltimore, MD on September 11, 2011:

Thank you both for the comments and the votes. And yes, there are girls who wear tights as if they are leggings. Since the feet are not cut out, they are not fooling anyone. Maybe more people commit fashion crimes in Baltimore than other cities. It is scary!

rachealomack from levittown, NY on September 11, 2011:

Voted Up, makes me want to go out and buy some leggings. :)

Newspaper reporter by trade, though in my spare time I'm interested in pets, health, books, cooking, the outdoors, and family.

Prepare to Ski Without Looking Like You Expect a Flood

Any tall person can tell you that finding ski pants that come in long lengths is hard. That is particularly frustrating since fit is important when it comes to buying technical gear like ski pants.

Expensive performance garments like snow pants or snowboarding pants simply do not work the way they should if they do not have a proper fit.

Happily, some snow pants manufacturers make ski and snowboard pants in long lengths. It's useful to know the brands that specialize in long lengths so that you can ask for them at your local sports store, or search online by brand to find the long length ski pants that are the right fit for your body and for your budget.

Brands That Make Long Ski Pants for Men

Here is a list of some of the winter sportswear companies that make long snow pants and snowboarding gear for big and tall men. Some of these simply make extra long lengths in traditional waist sizes while others make pants that are both longer and bigger around the waist:

• The North Face
• Arc'Teryx
• Mountain Hardwear
• Descente
• Marmot
• Patagonia

Brands That Make Women's Snow Pants in Long Lengths

It's easier to find women's ski pants in long lengths than it is to find petite length snow pants for women. Here are some of the brands that make ski pants in extra long lengths for taller women. As with men, most of these brands make slim-fitting long length ski pants in traditional pants sizes, while others make plus-sized skiwear that also fit long legs:

• North Face
• Mountain Hardwear
• Arc'Teryx
• Bogner
• Nils
• Athleta (owned by Gap, Inc.)
• Marmot
• Burton (Burton pants tend to be on the longer side without having a specific Tall size)

Why Proper Fit Matters in Performance Gear

Finding proper fitting ski clothes and snowboarding trousers is more than a matter of vanity and aesthetics.

One major problem of too-short skiing pants or snowboarding bottoms is that the articulated knees hit the wearer too high up the leg on the thigh. That means that expensive softshell or hardshell fabric that is supposed to bend with you as you bend your knees, giving you greater mobility and comfort, don't bend with you.

Another major issue when ski pants are too short is that the gaiters, which are meant to keep snow out of your ski boot or snowboard boot, slip up and therefore fail at keeping your sock dry. A wet ski sock can cause serious problems. At the worst, skiing with wet long underwear or socks will make you cold. At worst, you could develop a more serious problem like hypothermia.

© 2010 s.carver

Comments

Charlene Ross on December 28, 2017:

Looking for womans 34 waist and 36 inch inseam for snowpants

Mmmmmmmm mm on January 09, 2017:

For men there is also Burton, Columbia and 686

Tallmans Clothing on February 10, 2011:

Hi,

i have seen a very nice blog. This is very fashionable blog. i really like this blog. This blog gives to us very good knowledge about all fashionable clothe and fashionable product. This is very informative post.

Thank you,

As a 60-something female, Kate Swanson is well aware of the challenges facing women throughout their life in health, beauty, and fashion.

Not Your Daughter's Jeans promise to make you drop a dress size, get rid of your muffin top and make you look svelte. But are they worth the premium price?

The first time I tried on my NYDJ jeans, I was disappointed. Yes, they flattened my middle, but my thighs looked as thunder-y as ever. But a month later, I had to rethink, because every time I wore my NYDJ's, people said things like, "Hey! You've lost weight!" or "Those jeans look great, where did you get them?". As for my rear view, my husband told me my butt looked cute (if you'd seen my butt, you'd know it's way bigger than cute).

So I've had to agree, I look better in my Not Your Daughter's Jeans than in any of my other pants. They're well made in quality fabric, so two whole years later, they're still my "smart" jeans. I've never had a pair stay looking so good for so long! And they're definitely the most comfortable jeans I've worn in years.

But let's look in more detail at what they can and can't do. That way, if you're going to buy a pair, you'll have more realistic expectations than I did!

Lose the Muffin Top

NYDJ jeans say they'll banish your muffin top. There's no magic in that—NYDJ's are not low rise. Any waist-high jeans will prevent overflow, as anyone will know who grew up in the days when all skirts and pants sat on the waist. In those days, we didn't even know what a muffin top was!

A muffin top happens when fat on the tummy and hips is squidged upwards by a tight fastening at hip level. Raise the fastening to your real waist, where you carry less fat, and there's no overflow (or at least it's a heck of a lot smaller).

Of course, the downside is that if you don't like the high-waisted look, you may be reluctant to tuck a shirt into your NYDJ's. Personally, I wear most of tops tucked out so it hasn't been an issue.

Mind you, I think they've missed an opportunity. Why not make a style that's really high-waisted, i.e., coming right up over the ribs like a pair of Spanx? That would be a boon for women who carry fat higher in the waist and would give a really svelte look.

Lose the Tummy!

These are called tummy tuck jeans for a reason! The front of the jeans is very firm and definitely makes you feel pulled in. Obviously, that's part of the reason they come up to the waist, so they can cover the whole stomach.

Once again, I can 't help wishing they had a style that's really high-waisted, because I'm sure I'm not the only menopausal woman whose belly fat is sneaking up on to her ribs.

What About the Thighs?

This is where I was in for a disappointment. Not Your Daughter's Jeans have more spandex than other jeans (4% as opposed to 1% or 2%), but most of it is in the (very firm) tummy area.

If you feel you need strong thigh control, then you may be better off buying any old pair of jeans and a pair of Spanx thigh-shapers to wear under them.

I think I'll stick with my NYDJ's, personally. They may not minimize my thighs, but they don't draw unwanted attention to them either.

Have you ever bought tight stretch jeans that squeeze your thighs beautifully when you first put them on, but when you start moving, they develop unflattering horizontal wrinkles? That just makes it more obvious you've squeezed your thunder thighs into a size too small. NYDJ's don't do that—they don't hold you in much, but they stay smooth. And they don't cut off your circulation!

NYDJ Women's Alina Skinny Jeans in Super Sculpt Denim

One Size Smaller in NYDJ's?

I've seen several websites recommending you buy your NYDJ's a size smaller than your regular size, because they do "give" over time.

Personally, I think it depends on your shape.

If you're looking for a super-slimming pair of jeans and don't mind whether you can breathe, by all means go for a size smaller than your normal jeans size, but only if you have slim thighs.

Personally I'm a pear-shaped size 12 (US). When I bought my rhinestone NYDJ's, I tried on a size 10. I could get them on, and do them up (eventually), and they gave me an impressively flat stomach. But my saddle bags looked worse than ever in contrast to my super-tight bum and super-flat tummy.

The size 12 fits me very nicely. thank you. They don't hold my tummy in as much as a smaller size would, but they give me a much smoother line from hip to thigh. Plus I can move in them - I even wear them to go dancing!

Most women become more apple-shaped around menopause, so I guess it's not surprising that Not Your Daughter's Jeans have been designed to suit that figure. Unfortunately, I'm one of those who has collected a belly without losing the thigh fat!

So to summarize - if you're an apple with lovely slim thighs, you may want to try the "one size smaller" trick (if you're buying online, check the Returns policy first!). But if you're a pear, buy whatever size you would normally buy in jeans.

Either way, choose a pair that fits snugly when you try them on—it should be a bit of a struggle to zip them up, but not lying-down-on-the-floor-with-a-coat-hanger-tight (if you wore jeans in the '70s, you'll know what I mean!). They will give somewhat with washing and wearing.

Get ready to say goodbye to your tummy!

Useful Links

• NYDJ Blog - Find Your Perfect Fit
  This is the official blog post from the NYDJ company about finding the right size jeans according to your body type. For any concerns you have about getting the right fit for your specific body type, start here.
• Forum: Not Your Daughter's Jeans - Sizing?
  A useful discussion on the "YouLookFab" forum regarding the sizing of NYDJ's and various opinions from the community. This is good to read over if you are finding yourself additionally concerned about picking the right size.
• Not Your Daughters Jeans Review on Amazon
  A very useful rundown on Not Your Daughters Jeans including the reviewer's opinions on how to make sure you pick the right size. She discusses some of the helpful finer details on how these jeans fit a curvy body type.

© 2009 Kate Swanson

Comments

Linda holland on March 08, 2020:

I have bought and worn the $179 black and blue jeans, loved them, therefore didn’t mind spending a large amount. Just purchased a new black pair $199 and they are like cotton pants, not a black jean material, very disappointed in the quality.

Kate Swanson (author) from Sydney on April 16, 2013:

Wow, that's disgraceful. Have you checked out the consumer laws in your location? If that happened in Australia (where I live) the store would be obligated to give you your money back, and you could report them to Fair Trading if they didn't.

It's a worry to hear that there are "common problems" on any jeans.

maria on April 16, 2013:

I have bought two pair of NYDJs. Both pair have been defective. The panel on the front has separated from the rest of the jeans. After talking to customer service apparently this is a common problem. I have been led down a garden path that has no end trying to get a pair replaced. First they need a letter stating the problem, then numbers, then pictures, then more numbers then I have to pay to send the jeans to headquarters. No replacement still!

Kate Swanson (author) from Sydney on January 29, 2013:

I'm so sorry to hear that, Rachel. One of the things I really like about my NYDJ's is the way they stayed true to size after washing (whereas most jeans shrink a bit).

It is important to buy the jeans skin-tight, because the fabric does "give" a little with wear - but it sounds like yours have given much more than that. Did you, by any chance, dry them in a hot tumble dryer? The hot setting on a dryer will destroy the lycra, which is what gives the jeans their shape. I can't think of any other reason for the bagginess.

Rachel on January 29, 2013:

I bought 2 pairs of these jeans as in the shop they looked really good. However, after washing them several times, the fabric has really 'given' and they are now baggy. To be honest, I won't be wearing them again as they do not look good on me, they just look as if I have lost weight and have the wrong size jeans on. As I paid over £300 for both pairs I am VERY disappointed!

Giselle on November 04, 2011:

I am on a fixed budget,but reluctuntly went ahead and paid $104 at macys...after hours and shopping at countless stores NOTHING made me feel/look as good as these jeans...I have nice legs but I'm very heavy top and muffin top would be understatement,but these jeans completely eliminated that and added length to my 5'2 frame...because there also long if you were them with heels they look fabulous.To be honest I had planned to return them because I really can't afford them but after my first wear I ripped all tags off.Sooooooo worth it!

Casey on October 22, 2011:

I recently purchased a pair of NYDJ and theyt fit perfectly. They were comfortable and I received many compliments on the jeans. I usually try to avoid jeans and wear slacks or curduroys, but these jeans changed my mind. They look great and I feel good in them. I highly recommend purchasing a pair of NYDJ....

JT on September 16, 2011:

I am hooked. Once I tried them I had to go back for more. I now own 5 pairs and I do consider them a good investment. They wear well, I look slimmer and get quite a few compliments.

TinaLynn on August 22, 2011:

I have always wondered about these jeans. Thanks for the detailed review.

texasgirlfw on July 30, 2011:

I wear the NYDJ and absolutely love them. They are so comfortable, they feel like PJ's.

Manic!@thedisco from Beautiful Arkansas Ozarks on June 24, 2011:

I love this review! Due to bad wiring, I went into menopause at 26, so have been conflicted for some time about things that look cute and trendy, when my body really just screams for comfort. I am also a pear, and found this both helpful and humorous. Voted up!

Kate Swanson (author) from Sydney on February 10, 2011:

@Sandra, I think you bought the same ones I did! I'm a size 12/14 but they still look good. They're almost black, with a bootleg cut and rhinestones on the rear pockets. Love 'em!

Sandra Jones on February 10, 2011:

I bought a pair this week as I am visiting the states, I loved them at first sight, you have to try all the different styles, I settled for a bootleg darker denim and I have to say they make me look great and are so comfy I could even wear them on a plane. Utterly love them, in fact so much so I went back and bought a 2nd pair. I wear a size 6 so I am not so big but they look great on me. I bought Jeans in Gap and Banana republic this week and these are way better. Mine have some sparkles on the pocket so they are dressy too. You may as well buy some really nice ones if your going to pay the price for them.

graceomalley on February 08, 2011:

I wondered also about these jeans, thanks for the info. I didn't realize about the dryer killing spandex, so thanks for that too. I also wear a size 12, (a 10 in some things) and I consider myself trim. Since you are a 12, you must be too :)

Kate Swanson (author) from Sydney on January 24, 2011:

Emily, did you let them dry naturally or did you put them in the dryer?

These days, many people throw everything in the dryer, not realising it damages the spandex. The bottom line is, if any garment contains Lycra, its life will be dramatically shortened if you put them in a tumble dryer.

Emily on January 24, 2011:

I bought a size 12 pair & paid full price ($98) at Boscov's about a year ago. They fit nicely but after 8 months they developed a noticeable puck near the bottom of the zipper & now look puffy & stretched out in a 3 inch area - it appears the spandex stretch gave out. This has happened to several of my Gloria Vanderbilt jeans also in the same place. Will be contacting the company regarding this. Would not buy another pair at full price.

Lauren Mills on December 23, 2010:

I'm looking for a good pear of tummy tuck jeans but am not sure what brands are available. Can anyone offer me some advice?

Esther on December 21, 2010:

I owned a pair and boy,, I love them.. I'm 43 and never felt better... not even when I was a size 4 and now I'm a 12 or 14...... Got them at MACY's.. Thanks for thinking of us!

Kris on December 20, 2010:

I have one pair of NYDJeans. No they aren't my daugher's but they might be my 85 year old mother's. One looks matronly in them...which is the last thing I need at 62. Keeping myself in relatively good shape, finding the right size jean...yes even at the Gap or high end jean's stores like True Religion....is the best bet. Bite the bullet and go a size up.

Kelly Kline Burnett from Madison, Wisconsin on December 17, 2010:

Marisa Wright,

There is a shop downtown Lake Geneva that advertises these - wondered what it was all about - thank you!

alertswiftreview from USA on December 13, 2010:

I Love jeans..... It's a really great review

Kathleen S. on December 09, 2010:

It only makes sense that high waisted jeans reduce the muffin top. Look at Diane Keaton. Her pants are always almost up to her rib cage. She has no muffin top, and now I know why she wears such high waisted pants. The lady is not only talented, but brilliant.

Susan on November 23, 2010:

The fit is great, however, my second pair was defective. I tried emailing the company and have yet to hear from them.

Kate Swanson (author) from Sydney on November 01, 2010:

Thanks Kay, glad you like them! Interesting that yours sit under the navel - maybe they're not all the same cut.

Kay on November 01, 2010:

Just got my first pair and couldn't believe how much thinner they make me look. I chose my usual size. The pair I got actually sit right below my navel, not sure of the cut right now, so they don't look like high rise jeans, rather very stylish! I will now look for others on sale since many of you seem to have found them that way! Mine were pretty pricey, but once I looked in the mirror, I thought it was well worth it. It's also true that there is none of the ugly "bubbling" down the backs of your legs with these, those rolls and lines that form when your jeans are too tight. These are a great, smooth fit and I'd highly recommend trying a pair on to see what you think. Bet you buy them!

FashionBebop on September 16, 2010:

I just brought my first pair and they were on sale at Dillards for $29.99! I have been wanting a pair for a while. I am very excited about the fit. The writer is correct in saying what she said about the thigh area. I did not like the fit in the thighs but the but lift, I loved!

shoppingqueen on September 07, 2010:

Thanks for the review, I think I'm going to check these jeans out!

tootsie on August 23, 2010:

i received a pair for a giftand when I washed them in cold water w/Woolite they seemed to shrink and look like

high waters..they were a perfect fit.

SJG on August 04, 2010:

I reeeeally resisted getting these (just because of the concept - I guess I'd like to think I'm not old enough to have a daughter) but I tried on a pair at an Off 5th Saks Outlet and instantly converted. I still felt like they were holding in the fat for 10 minutes after I took them off!

Personally, I thought they sucked in my thighs wonderfully AND I was able to buy 2 sizes smaller - a 12 instead of a 16. This was what really sold me on them!!

If the price is making you eeeeek, try going to Off 5th or Nordstrom's Rack and see what you can find. I paid I think $55 for mine. Also, be sure you wash them on gentle cycle, in cold water and drip dry! These aren't the old trusty Wranglers you can wash warm, tumble dry.

Curvy Jen on June 16, 2010:

Have to agree, I discovered NYDJ a few months ago and they've been a revolution. Friends think I've lost weight (I haven't) and I feel so much more confident and feminine.

Samantha on May 26, 2010:

Sure thing, Marisa. I'll let you know when it is live.

Kate Swanson (author) from Sydney on May 25, 2010:

Sam, you're very welcome. Please just include a link back to the original.

Samantha on May 25, 2010:

Marisa- if it is all right, we'd like to use part of this article (with attribution, of course) in the NYDJ section of our blog. We have been selling NYDJ for a number of years now, and like to gather reviews to help educate our customers.

Thanks,

Samantha

Owner, The James Store (www.thejamesstore.com)

mikicagle from Oklahoma on May 13, 2010:

they were recently on sale here for 68.00. I think I need to go and try some on!!

janice on April 30, 2010:

Just bought my first pair at Marshall's for 24.99; love them!

MrsJdenim from nj on April 20, 2010:

Try the old navy jeans

RecoverToday from United States on April 19, 2010:

I have several pair of these. They are the most comfortable jeans I own!

Jill on February 26, 2010:

I just bought a pair at our cute little boutique in Cambridge, WI after having wondered about them for a LONG time. They are my favorite by far!!

Kate Swanson (author) from Sydney on February 20, 2010:

I agree, Amy. It's been several months now, and my MYDJ jeans are still lookin' good and getting me compliments

Amy P on February 20, 2010:

I absolutely love these jeans, they fit me like they were made right on me. I am a plus size woman and I have never had a pair of jeans that fit until now. Usually the ones with stretch in them begin to look and feel baggy after an hour of wear, not these,they look as good at the end of the day as they did when I put them on. A great big thank you for a product that finally lives up to the hype. A little pricey but well worth it.

mistywild from Houston, TX (Proud Texan) on November 12, 2009:

Great hub, I may have to try me a pair :)

MaryElena on November 06, 2009:

I'll have to check these jeans out.

martycraigs on November 06, 2009:

I think my wife might be interested in a pair of jeans like this. Thanks for the review.

CurlyGirlCa on October 25, 2009:

I recently got a pair and while I'll never look skinny, I thought I looked pretty good and they wore very well. Only thing though, the petite is still too long so I'll need to get them shortened. Had bought them full price at Nordstroms and getting them shortened there for free so think about that if you buy on EBay.

I'm buying a couple more pairs now. No more mom looking jeans for me.

MAYRAPINK from texas on October 04, 2009:

i always was curious about these jeans since i heard of them..hmm great review

sheristeele from Siler City, NC on September 07, 2009:

Was not aware that these jeans even existed.. have been wearing Shape FX from Newport-News and I love them. THANKS for the hub info!

PpcJen on August 22, 2009:

LOL - I love it. Thanks for writing this very entertaining review. It would be great if we could banish the "muffin top" forever! Fashion is crazy sometimes!

Remember while back when all the shirt styles were really short? And the jeans got really low? So many people were walking around with it all hanging out. Yikes! No thanks.

Anyway - thanks! Very funny.

Khan""1 on August 22, 2009:

Good reviews.

Thanks for informing

Renee Hanlon from Michigan on August 21, 2009:

You have a very entertaining way of writing! Great job.

kyon on August 21, 2009:

good discus about jeans fashion.

irlsgirl on August 19, 2009:

I agree about the high-waist jeans not producing a muffin top. I even had an aunt who taught me how to zip up high-waist pants and skirts to ensure no bulges -- unless you sit down, of course. but this is a cool product. Thanks for the info! ^_^

Leave it to me. on August 18, 2009:

We sell these jeans at the store where I work in Alabama.. a lot of our customers seem to like them, and most of them actually have to go down a size.. but you're right they are not miracle pants

shibashake on August 15, 2009:

This is a really interesting review. I have been thinking of writing something about jeans myself.

What has worked well for me is to have some tight pairs of jeans and some regular sized ones. When I want to cut down on eating, I will wear those tight ones. It is very uncomfortable to eat when you are wearing tight jeans - lol.

Can't do this continuously, but it works for the occasional work off yesterday's brownie days.

Frieda Babbley from Saint Louis, MO on August 13, 2009:

This is a fantastic review!!!! Thanks for the info. Love your honest and practical tone.

sunil.menon from India Bangalore on August 12, 2009:

I Think its a Good way of Promotion

What do you think of Food and Nutrion Factors in Losing weight?

siennapacific from California on August 10, 2009:

Thanks for your advice. I've always wondered about these jeans.

elisabethkcmo from Just East of Oz on August 10, 2009:

thanks for the info, I'll have to try these.

Perhaps they will help the look of the dreaded dunlap!!

(Your belly dun lap over your pants)

2patricias from Sussex by the Sea on August 10, 2009:

Pat bought a pair in the USA about 2 years ago, for a friend. This was before they were widely available in the UK. Wish we'd know about the apple/pear shape advice because you are so right! The friend had to loose a bit of weight (she's a pear) to get into them - so maybe it was good in the long run.

Only other downside is that the fit is absolutely best when they have just been washed - after a couple of wears they tend to stretch a little bit.

On the plus side, they have worn very well.

Kate Swanson (author) from Sydney on August 09, 2009:

Oops, I published this a little early - haven't added the links yet. You can check on the Not Your Daughter's Jeans website for stores worldwide - however in writing this article, I was surprised at the prices I found on eBay (much less than I paid in the store!). So I'm thinking, try them on in the High Street then once you know your size, get eBaying!

anitariley65 from Little Town Ohio on August 09, 2009:

Thank you sooooo much Marisa. Which stores carry these jeans? I am a 44 year old who has been dealing with menopause since 2000. I have the thigh issue too. I feel for ya girl. I just hope that one of our local mall stores carry these jeans.

With Sincere gratitude~ Anita

Shelly McRae from Phoenix, Arizona on August 09, 2009:

Good review, Marisa. Thanks for the info.

I've been interested in fashion for many years and enjoy helping others find the kinds of clothes that help them look and feel their best.

Let's face it, we all want to look great in jeans. There is nothing like a poor-fitting, uncomfortable pair of jeans—the type that tend to show each and every flaw that we hope to camouflage, such as the muffin top or the overly large thigh area.

So, how does one go about finding that perfect-fitting pair of jeans? The kind of pair that will flatter your individual body type and naturally work to make you look slimmer. First, you have to know your body type. Then you need to understand some simple rules that can actually make you appear slimmer in jeans.

Luckily, I have put together some useful tips that may help you find that perfect pair of jeans that will work for you and your body type.

Get to Know Your Body Type

As a quick exercise, think about visual perception: do the clothes you wear really fit and flatter your figure type?

The most important concept of looking good in jeans is a good fit. First, choose a style and fit that truly fits your body type.

Don't let going up a size or down a size scare you when trying on a pair of jeans. All jeans aren't created equal and sizes and fits can vary between manufacturers and even single products.

The next concept to consider is what style jeans look best on your body type. In short, you've got to take a good, long look at your body. Get to know your body type and learn what will flatter your particular frame.

Balance and proportion is the key to making your body look good in anything you wear.

Try on Lots of Different Pairs and Avoid "Muffin Top"

It's smart to keep an open mind when shopping for jeans. For instance, don't let these guidelines stop you from trying on lots of styles. Do try on your "suggested style" first, however, and make sure to try several brand names.

All brands are not equal though, and remember that going up or down a size may just help you find a perfect fit. You may just fall in love with a pair of jeans that are out of your suggested body type-style. If they look great and feel great, then feel free to take the plunge and purchase them! On the other hand, If you fall in love with a pair of jeans that just don't fit, you must accept it and walk away.

In any case, stay clear of jeans that give you overflow at the waistline. "Muffin top" is so unattractive, as well as uncomfortable.

Be Wary of Poor-Fitting Pockets

Be aware of what's behind you! Back pockets can reflect the size of your "bottom." Both the placement and size of a pocket can have a great effect on how well your backside looks walking away.

Avoid tiny pockets, as well as pockets that are set too far apart. Pockets such as these will make your backside look larger, whereas those that are added lower on the jeans will tend to make your bottom look higher.

Another good tip is to avoid overdoing the embellishments. The faded rear also is hard to pull off, as it can stand to draw attention to your backside. Consider asking yourself: "Do I really want my butt to stand out?"

The best pockets are medium in size and sit a bit closer to the waist. This can give a lifted look to your rear end.

Bootcut and Flared Jeans Work Particularly Well for Taller and Slimmer Women

Bootcut give a long and lean look, which is flattering to a majority of women.

Ideal body type for bootcut jeans: tall, with a thick middle, and a boyish body figure.

Similarly, flare legged jeans really look best on the long and lean body frame. If you are on the short side, these jeans can add weight and deduct inches from your height.

Ideal body type for flare legged jeans: slim, boyish body shape, or just plain tall.

Most Women Can Wear Skinny Jeans Well

Skinny jeans are great jeans, and most women can wear them well.

Ideal body type for skinny jeans: petite, slim and boyish shape, and tall and well-proportioned.

Here are a few great styles and brands to consider:

• Seven For All Mankind five-pocket bootcut jeans
• J.Lo by Jennifer Lopez jeans with pocket-free back
• Calvin Klein basic fit jeans
• Parasuco basic stretch five-pocket jeans
• Bisou Bisou basic fit jeans
• XOXO basic fit jeans

Trouser Jeans Complement Most Body Types Well

Trouser jeans are a good try-on starting point. They are one of the most flattering jeans for all shapes and sizes.

Cuffs are great on some body types, but the shorter woman should avoid such cuffs. If you're under 5'5", stay away from cuffs, as they will make your legs appear shorter.

Ideal body type for classic trouser jeans: slim, petite, thick in the middle, curvy, boyish, and tall.

A few great styles and brands to consider are:

• AG Angel Roxy
• Lee One True Fit flare jeans
• Not Your Mothers Jeans Tummy Tuck jeans
• City Girl Suddenly Slimmer jeans
• Perfection jeans
• Apple Bottom jeans

Plus-Size Jeans Come in Various Styles for Different Body Types and Preferences

Plus-size jeans are now being made in all styles. The plus-size woman should try on every style, as there is sure to be one that will flatter all your curves: bootcut, straight cut, or trouser may do the job.

Here are a few great styles and brands to consider:

• Express precision fit jeans
• Lane Bryant Venezia stretch bootcut jeans
• Zana di Bedford cord jeans
• Avenue classic denim jeans
• Tommy Hilfiger boy-front bootcut jeans
• Faded Glory classic fit jeans
• Land's End relaxed fit jeans
• L.L. Bean wide leg jeans
• Gap Long and Lean
• Not Your Daughters Tummy Tuck jeans

Straight Leg vs. Wide Leg Jeans

Unlike straight leg, wide leg jeans can be a bit hard to pull off. A tall, slim body shape looks best in a wide leg style. On the other hand, curvy women should stay away from the wide leg jeans, as this line will add weight and make you appear shorter.

Ideal body type for straight leg jeans: slim, curvy, tall, thick middle, boyish, or petite.

Ideal body type for wide leg jeans: tall, boyish, or slim.

Do you have a favorite brand of jeans you can share with my readers?

brynimagire on March 26, 2012:

Beautiful jeans ! Thanks.

mennella on June 09, 2011:

mmmhhh why don't fit on me in the same way? (good lens!)

pajamajeans on December 30, 2010:

Pajamas to live in. Jeans to sleep in. Pajama Jeans are the best of both worlds

anonymous on September 07, 2008:

Want more traffic to your lens?

I would like to FEATURE your lens in my "Jeans" section of my my Fashion Lens! You can join and I will be sure to feature your lens specifically.

Fashion Diva's on Squidoo.

Ashley

Hollywood Glam on a Budget