Jeans shopping. Does the mere mention of those two words make you want to flee?
We completely empathize.
Finding that elusive pair of jeans that fits just right can often feel like an insurmountable task. You squeeze yourself into the latest trendy pair, contorting your body to zip them up, hoping that this time will be different.
But then you catch a glimpse of your reflection – camel toe, an unsightly muffin top, and the inability to sit down comfortably without cutting off your circulation.
Disheartened, you peel them off and toss them onto the growing pile of “jeans I’ll diet to fit into” at the back of your closet.
The truth is, ill-fitting jeans are usually not your fault. Women’s bodies come in a vast array of shapes and sizes that can change over time.
Yet, the jeans industry often pretends that there’s a universal “perfect” mold that all women should conform to.
But there’s hope. Even though the odds may seem stacked against us, there are strategies to beat the system and discover your dream jeans.
The key lies in learning the tips and tricks to outmaneuver slippery sizing, enhance your body’s contours, and pinpoint fits tailored for your unique curves.
So, don’t waste another moment in discomfort with jeans that don’t fit you properly.
Follow these eight tips to find jeans that fit you like a glove every single time.
1. Understand Your Body Type
The initial step toward finding well-fitting jeans is to understand your body shape. Are you straight or curvy? Do you tend to carry extra weight in your hips, thighs, or abdomen?
Once you identify your body type, you can seek out jeans designed to flatter your specific figure.
Hourglass figures, consider jeans with contoured waistbands that cinch at your midsection and balance your curves.
If you have a slender build, opt for relaxed and slouchy fits to add some shape. If you’re more straight up and down, choose mid or high-rise jeans to create the illusion of a waistline.
For curvier shapes, select jeans with stretch denim and a tapered leg to glide gracefully over your hips and thighs.
Unsure of your body shape? Stand in front of a mirror in your underwear and identify where your body is widest and where it narrows. Alternatively, compare yourself to an online body type guide. Understanding your shape will make jeans shopping a breeze!
2. Know Your Measurements
It’s astounding how much our bodies can change over time. Even if you’ve maintained the same size for years, it’s wise to measure yourself before purchasing new jeans.
Knowing your exact measurements ensures that you find jeans that fit your current physique, not the way you used to look.
Grab a tape measure and record these key numbers:
- Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist.
- Hips: Measure around the widest part of your hips.
- Inseam: Measure from your crotch to where you want the hem to hit.
- Front rise: Measure from the crotch seam to your waist.
- Thigh: Measure around the fullest part.
Once you have these measurements, compare them to the size charts of any jeans you try on. Since sizes can vary between brands, consulting the chart helps you secure the right fit. No more guesswork or struggling to squeeze into uncomfortably tight jeans!
3. Determine Your Preferred Jean Style
Jeans come in an array of styles, from bootcut to boyfriend jeans, and each style is designed to flatter different body types.
So, before you even set foot in a fitting room, decide on the style that best complements your shape:
- Bootcut: Gently flares out from the knee to the hem, creating balance for curvier hips and thighs.
- Straight leg: Fitted through the hip and thigh, with a straight silhouette from knee to ankle. Ideal for those with straight or athletic builds.
- Skinny: Form-fitting throughout the leg. Elongates the appearance of straight or athletic builds but may overwhelm curves.
- Boyfriend: Relaxed through the hip and thigh, often featuring a rolled cuff. Ideal for concealing wider hips and adding curves.
- Wide leg: Flowy, flared legs offer balance for those with a broader upper body.
Once you’ve pinpointed your ideal style, you can focus on finding jeans that will fit you seamlessly!
4. Prioritize Stretch
Jeans tailored specifically for curvy figures often incorporate added stretch to prevent issues like gaping, squeezing, and muffin-topping.
Stretch denim typically contains at least 2% spandex, allowing the fabric to flex with your body’s movements. Brands like Good American, American Eagle, and Old Navy offer stretch skinnies, bootcuts, and more.
Even if you don’t require extra stretch, make sure that the jeans you try on contain at least 1% to 2% spandex. This small amount of stretch enhances the comfort and flexibility of denim. Don’t settle for 100% cotton jeans; you want a little room to maneuver!
5. Pay Attention to Waist-Focused Details
Certain jean details can make a significant difference in how jeans fit around your waist. Look for these waist-friendly features:
- Contour waistband: Curves inward at the sides to cinch your midsection.
- Deep waistband: Begins higher in both the front and back, providing additional coverage.
- Wide waistband: Distributes excess flab more evenly and prevents muffin-topping.
- Hidden panel: An extra inner layer that smooths and slims the tummy.
- Medium to high rise: Prevents embarrassing glimpses of your lower back when you bend over!
Jeans equipped with a contoured, smoothing waistband and boasting a medium to high rise can be your best friends if your midsection presents a challenge.
6. Put Your Jeans to the Test
Jeans that fit superbly while you’re standing may not necessarily provide the same comfort when you’re on the move. So, before committing to a pair, get active in the fitting room!
- Sit down: Does the waistband and rear rise stay in place, or do they slide down when you sit? Are they uncomfortably tight when you’re seated?
- Squat: As you crouch down, do the inner thighs pinch, or do the jeans feel excessively loose and baggy?
- Stomp: Jump up and down to ensure the jeans don’t slip down. Also, check for loose and baggy knees or ankles.
Subjecting jeans to these real-life tests ensures that they’ll remain comfortable throughout the day, not just for the 30 seconds you spend trying them on while standing!
7. Allow Room for Lunch
Jeans can fit differently throughout the day because our bodies expand and contract. Shopping for jeans right after a meal means you should account for a little extra room!
Look for a waistband into which you can comfortably insert two fingers and thighs with some spare space. Waistbands should never dig into your belly – especially after a hearty meal.
You also want jeans that contain at least 1% spandex to accommodate your body’s natural fluctuations. Pure 100% cotton offers no stretch or forgiveness.
Don’t let the number on the tag deter you. Focus on fit and comfort, even if you need to go up a size. Who cares about the number when the jeans make your rear view look fantastic?
8. Don’t Overlook Reviews
Before purchasing jeans online, tap into the collective wisdom of the internet! Reading reviews from individuals who have actually tried on the jeans can provide valuable insights into the true fit.
Here’s what to keep an eye out for in reviews:
- “Size up if you have curves.”
- “Waist runs small.”
- “Legs are too tight.”
- “Minimal stretch.”
- “Baggy in the knees.”
Let the experiences of those who have gone before you light the path toward jeans that fit YOUR body. Their feedback can save you the trouble of dealing with returns and exchanges!