Denim Guru: The Perfect Fit

Who loves trying on jeans at the store? Not me! There is nothing more frustrating than trying on a pair of jeans, committing to them, and then getting home and feeling disappointed with your decision. It sometimes seems as though the jeans morph between the time you are in the fitting room mirror and the time you get home. Sometimes it even makes you feel like your body changed dramatically within minutes! Well, I would like to try to erase this traumatizing experience from your life and share tips for making sure you always find the perfect fit for your body.

First things first, what is your body type? For the most part, a women’s figure can be broken down into five categories – the pear, the apple, the hourglass, the cornet and the lollipop. To find the perfect fit for any denim, you need to shop by styles that flatter your figure. Below are some easy guidelines to follow when shopping for denim.

So you think you have a pear shape…

Features to look for:

  • High rises – these will balance out your figure and lengthen your legs
  • Cuts that run small in the waist
  • Wider legs in general – bootcuts, flares, etc.
  • Thicker, stretch denim will make your life much easier
  • Large pockets without too much detail

The Perfect Fit:

Kim Kardashian in Citizens of Humanity
Kim Kardashian in Citizens of Humanity

Perhaps you have an apple shape…

Features to look for:

  • Trouser cuts – something with an extravagant flap pocket
  • High rise jeans hold things in and make you feel better about your tummy
  • If you are slender, a low rise will add curves and lengthen your waist
  • Skinnies are your ideal style! These look amazing with a flowy peasant top
  • Cropped denim – try styles like a cigarette leg, but keep them slim in fit.

The Perfect Fit:

  • J Brand – they run bigger in the waist than in the hips. Check out the 811
  • 7 for All Mankind – the Slim Illusion Kimmie is definitely a winner!
Jessica Alba in Maria by J Brand
Jessica Alba in Maria by J Brand

The envy of most women, you are the hourglass…

Features to look for:

  • A wide leg jean will balance out your skinny calves and bottom
  • A lower rise to add length to your torso
  • Cuts that run a size bigger in the hips to prevent the dreaded “gap”
  • For a higher back rise, try styles with a contoured waist
  • Long inseams!

The Perfect Fit:

  • AG – The Angel is your go to, especially with the extra-long inseams
  • Joe’s – Check out The Honey – this is designed to flatter a curvy figure
Salma Hayek in the Angel Boot by AG
Salma Hayek in the Angel Boot by AG

The cornet, pretty much any runway model or volleyball player…

Features to look for:

  • Skinny cuts – be careful of length, these run short but will add curves
  • Long inseams!
  • A wide flare that is fitted above the knees
  • Pocket embellishments, fun washes, and interesting details
  • A low rise will tone down the length of your legs

The Perfect Fit:

  • Rag & Bone – low in the rise and narrow in the hips and thighs
  • J Brand – the classic 910 skinny is a slam dunk for you!
Cameron Diaz Tries To Find A Taxi In NYC
Cameron Diaz in the Drew by Rag & Bone

So you think you have the lollipop shape…

Features to look for:

  • Skinny jeans are your go to!
  • Cuts that run small in the hips and thighs compared to the waist
  • Detailed washes, contrast stitching, and elaborate details
  • Flares that are well-fitted above the knees
  • Mid-to-low rises are best. Stay away from high rise denim!

The Perfect Fit:

  • 7 for All Mankind – try the Pintuck Trouser in true rinsed – “best stitching”
  • AG – The Legging. You must try this, it is perfect!
Angelina Jolie with contrast stitching
Angelina Jolie with contrast stitching