I can’t tell you how many times I’ve left fitting rooms empty handed & exhausted after trying to shop for jeans. But over the last few years through a ton of trial, error, and research, I’ve really perfected my denim shopping process and feel like I’m an expert now haha! Here’s how I recommend approaching the sometimes daunting task of denim shopping:
The key is in the prep work:
I’ve found denim shopping to be so much easier now that I’ve become more familiar with my own sizing, body shape, and retailers that carry the styles that work for me. Let’s figure out yours!
Sizing & Fit:
Don’t skip this step! Before you even step foot in a store, gather your measurements! Use a fabric measuring tape (or a string and a yard stick) to measure around your natural waist (the thinnest part of your stomach, right above your hip bones), and your hips (the fullest part).
Next, pick 2-3 denim brands that you want to try out and look at their size charts online with your measurements in mind. It’s no secret that sizing varies from brand to brand, but knowing your exact waist & hip measurements and taking a peek at online size charts for a few brands can help you get an idea of which sizes to grab when you’re in store.
Luckily, a lot of brands also offer denim in short, regular, and long and also in “curvy” fits. If you typically have issues with gapping around the waist of your jeans, you may want to opt for curvy styles which typically offer an extra couple of inches in the hip & thigh while still keeping the waist measurement the same.
Body Shape:
Understanding your own body shape is just as important as knowing your measurements. Different cuts of jeans (low rise, high rise, wide leg, barrel, flare, etc) can look different on different body types. If you don’t already know your body type, do a quick google search to get a better idea. I’m linking another blog post here where you can also check which styles of jeans typically flatter different body shapes.
Brands:
Before going to the mall, you also want to have at least a couple of brands in mind to try out so that you don’t go in blind in terms of pricing and options. Some of my favorite brands for denim are Abercrombie, Madewell, Everlane, Agolde, Levi’s, and H&M. I’ll also link my favorite denim styles here.
Time to go shopping!
The prep work you do at home is the most important part that will hopefully make in-person shopping so much easier! Once you narrow down your size, brands, and a a couple of styles as a starting point, you’re ready to go.
Before you leave the house, be sure to eat something! Nothing is worse than trying on clothes on an empty stomach.
Also try to wear a simple top, like a white tee shirt or tank top. This will help you focus more on the jeans and clearly see how each pair looks on your body.
I’ve already mentioned to pick 2-3 brands and 2-3 denim styles to try on while you’re at the mall. While you’re there, here are just a couple other little things to keep in mind:
- Fabric composition: not all denim is made of the same materials! Some jeans contain more elastane which will give you more of a stretch, while some are 100% cotton. My favorite pairs of jeans are 99% cotton + 1% elastane, which give them a more durable, rigid denim feel with just a bit of stretch for comfort. Just keep in mind that the more stretch they have, the less durable they will be over time. For tighter styles like skinny jeans and straight leg, you may want more stretch so you can easily move around. But for wider leg styles, it’s okay to opt for a more rigid denim that will hold its shape.
- While trying jeans on, make sure you try moving around and sitting in them to make sure they’ll be comfortable!
- Take pictures of each pair of jeans at the same angle so you can reference later! If you don’t find a pair that you’re obsessed with, it’s okay to go home, sleep on it, and search online for more options since narrowing your search.
Like I said, the prep work is the most important part and can help you narrow your search before you even step foot into a store. This should all help you get one step closer to the perfect pair of jeans for YOU! If you have more questions don’t hesitate to DM me on Instagram, I’m literally ALWAYS happy to help!