Jeans are the staple item in every discerning fashionista’s wardrobe but how do you choose the perfect style to flatter your body type?
Body shapes in general fall into four main categories. Different cuts and colors of jeans suit different body shapes. So how do you know which style to choose? The secret is to know your own body type and make your selection accordingly.
Body Shapes
“Apple” body types usually have a full bust, wide waist and back and broad shoulders. Their upper body is usually larger than their lower body, tapering to slim hips and legs.
“Pear” shaped is the most common body type and is pretty much the opposite of an apple. Pear bodies carry more weight on the hips and thighs, have a curvy bottom and are typically narrower in the shoulders and smaller in the bust.
Those with a “boyish” or “athletic” body shape are pretty much straight up and down and tend to be slight in frame and slim with narrow hips and a small bust.
The classic “hourglass” figure is considered by many to be the perfect body shape. Hourglass bodies are slim-waisted with evenly proportioned shoulders, bust and hips.
Jean Styles
Skinny jeans are the nation’s favorite. This most versatile of cuts looks sexy and smart and can be worn with both boots and on trend skyscraper courts. The skinny should cling tight to the leg right down to the ankle and can be finished with ankle zips for a mega-skinny look. The high-rise version can be extremely slimming as the tummy is contained unlike in the low-rise version which is a definite no-no unless you have flat, well-toned abs.
Straight cut jeans are a great versatile style. As the name suggests, this cut runs straight down the leg from hip to ankle effectively balancing and slimming the silhouette without the “no place to hide” look of the skinny.
The bootcut jean was the original style and has remained a classic for decades. The bootcut fits close to the thigh before flaring slightly at the knee. This cut was designed originally to accommodate cowboy boots, hence its name.
Flares are extremely flattering and are a seventies icon that refuses to go out of fashion. Flares fit tight to the thighs then widen from the knee by varying degrees depending on the fashion house. A variation on the look is the kick flare which widens from the ankle as opposed to the knee.
The latest arrival in the jean family is the boyfriend. The boyfriend is a baggy style designed to sit low on the hip and fit loosely down the leg. Boyfriend jeans are very often styled with the vintage look in mind featuring a button fly, utility pockets and plenty of studs and buckle detail.
How To Choose Your Perfect Jeans
Apple shapes should avoid skinny jeans. Hip hugging flares or wide-legged styles will help to create balance and proportion. Choose styles with pockets back and front which will help divert attention from a rounder middle but will still flatter curves. Color-wise, a bleached wash or aged look will add the illusion of volume to the bottom part of the silhouette.
Pear shapes suit a lower rise cut which sits slightly below the natural waistline rather than high-waisters or skinnies. Larger rear pockets that taper downwards help to create the illusion of a smaller bottom whereas those with button flaps or heavy embroidery can have the opposite effect. Jeans without front pockets are great for making hips look smaller and a classic dark indigo denim has a further slimming effect.
Straight leg jeans will create the illusion of a longer leg and a boot cut will help to balance hips. Aim for a thigh skimming fabric rather than something too tight and conversely avoid anything too baggy as neither of these will flatter a pear shape.
Boyish or athletic shapes best suit straight leg styles which fit wider at the ankles than the thighs. Skinny jeans can look good but choose those with a fading effect at the thighs and knees which help to create the illusion of curves. Heavily embellished and button flap rear pockets can help to make your bottom look rounder and stretch denim looks great on an athletic figure.
Boyfriend styles will show off a slim figure whilst giving plenty of shape but beware of overly baggy styles as these can appear rather too masculine. High waist styles are perfect for drawing in the waist to create curves and a flat toned stomach also looks great in a low rise style.
Those blessed with an hourglass figure will want to maximize their waist. A style with a high, defined waistline and straight or wide leg will balance the overall look and maximize curves. A fabric with a degree to stretch will ensure a perfect fit over waist and hips. A skinny can also look great on an hourglass shape and a dark wash will help to accentuate long, slim legs.
Looking for the perfect pair of women’s jeans? Than follow these tips and you should be well on your way to owning the right pair for you.
Credits: Photo Courtesy of RubberDragon.com.