How should they fit?
Premium denim runs by size 24-32 (occasionally 33); this is equivalent to a U.S. 0-12. One of the biggest mistakes denim shoppers make is buying their jeans too big! Always, always make sure that your denim is snug in the dressing room. It should not be uncomfortable enough that you can’t sit down or breathe, just a little snug around the waist that you may think you need to size up, but then feel if you do it will be too big, because that is the PERFECT fit!

Why is this? Because denim stretches! When you wear denim, your body heat will stretch it out, and that is why so often the jeans you thought fit you great at the store are too baggy now. Use this piece of advice to guide you to your dream jeans. Another rule you may like: You should be able to stick two to three fingers in the waistband.

Am I limited to one style because of my body shape?
There is no such rule that only certain body types can wear skinnies, or straight legs, boot cut, or flares. This is a myth! Oftentimes, people are only comfortable with one style, and that can be a tough cycle to break.

There are two keys to success in terms of finding the right jeans: Fit and comfort. Yes, "fit" is a given, but you must be comfortable in your jeans, because if you’re not, it shows.

Focus on a flattering wash and complimenting pocket placement in any style, and you will look fantastic. Example: Think your skinny legs can’t handle a boyfriend jean? Try a skinny slouchy fit for a less extreme look. Afraid of a bootcut with your curves? Don’t be! Try a baby bootcut in a dark wash denim that has no fading through the thighs.




(Above: Paige denim in ‘Skyline’ Bootcut (Michelle) & AG denim in ‘Nikki’ Relaxed Skinny Jeans, both available at nordstrom.com)

How much should I spend?
This is entirely a personal decision, but do remember that when you invest in quality, you get what you paid for. If you are lucky enough to hunt down a quality denim with a small defect that you know you can get fixed, then more power to you! However, if you buy denim that is mass produced from a fast fashion brand, be wary. Sure it may seem like a great deal, but will it hold up in your hectic life? If it’s a trendy patterned jean that you know you’ll be sick of come next spring, than by all means, drop $50 on them. But if it’s a traditional denim washed skinny, or boot cut, please think twice if it’s really worth it.

Another factor to consider is where you are buying your denim. When fit is the most important quality in a pair of jeans, this is really important. Do you want to buy denim from a brand whose main focus is designing jeans, or do you want to buy jeans from a retail clothing store that does it all? I suggest starting out at a department store where you can try on different brands, and even get assistance from a sales associate, but stick to one style at a time. If the full or sale price point is still too much, then write down the style, fit, and brand of the denim so that you can look for them when thrifting or scouring online sales.

Budget Babes, next week I am going to talk about premium denim, including why it’s so expensive, and a little background information on major brand names. If you have any denim questions or comments at all, let me know!

Images one & two via citizensofhumanity.com