“I have often said that I wish I had invented blue jeans: the most spectacular, the most practical, the most relaxed and nonchalant. They have expression, modesty, sex appeal, simplicity” – Yves Saint Laurent.
If you were to ask me which item I simply couldn’t live without, I would definitely, without hesitation, say: my pair of jeans. Denim is an essential part of every wardrobe, but considering the wide array of denim styles available, finding the perfect pair of jeans can sometimes be a tricky task.
The first thing to do is figure out which styles are hip and happening. In my opinion, it’s time to set aside the boyfriend jeans and the heavy washes. This winter, fashion is reverting back to classic silhouettes in classic washes, to achieve a more timeless sense of poise.
- Denim: Love Story from J-Brand
I don’t think that skinny jeans are going out of style, and there’s really no need for them to do so, but it’s time to fuss things up and dare to wear a chic pair of flared denim jeans. Don’t be afraid to travel back to the 1970s, because remember, the flared cut will give you a sleek, slim figure, from your waist to your knees, and achieve that oh-so-desirable elongated silhouette. Be sure to pair your flared jeans with a tight top for maximum effect.
There are many classic flared styles available, like the Charlize from 7 For All Mankind, and the Love Story from J Brand. For newer flared cuts, try the Forever Karlie or Le High Flare (for a lower budget), both from Frame Denim, the Cruiser Flared jean from Mother or the Marrakesh High Rise from emerging denim brand MiH.
Going back to skinny jeans look – after all, we can’t really let them go, can we? – try the Skinny from Rag & Bone (the Bedford wash is amazing), made from ultra-comfy Japanese denim. And if you want something fresh and new, go for the Mid Rise Busted Knee Skinny by 3×1.
Now that you’ve secured your classic pair of jeans for winter, it’s time to add a few funky denim pieces to your wardrobe. Check out the patchwork pair from Current/Elliott and try styling it with a denim shirt as well.
You may also want to invest in a pair of leather pants – this is a great idea since they can be worn during the day with sneakers and an oversized sweater or at night with spiked heels. Rag & Bone and J Brand, in my opinion, have some of the nicest leather styles available. J Brand even carries flared leather pants if you want to be super edgy. And for a truly adventurous look, grab the 3×1 Retro-Fit Straight Leg.