How to Buy Jeans

Hello, Fashion Friends! It's A. We got an excellent question about jeans and how to buy them. Buying jeans is a complex thing and I'm a bit long winded so bear with me ;)

Jeans are an investment. I used to buy all my jeans from Target and couldn't figure out why they never fit correctly. Then I shelled out a couple extra dollars for a pair of jeans from a nicer store and was shocked at how well they fit. That's when I realized the most important thing in buying jeans - you have to be willing to pay a little more than you normally do to get a pair of great fitting jeans. I'm not saying you have to buy a pair of $200 jeans. However, if you usually pay $20, be prepared to pay more.

While some designer jeans are all hype ($500 jeans are definitely worth the money), others are worth the money. They honestly are better quality. They have better construction, a better fit, are made of better denim and are usually dyed better (they don't fade as quickly or as much). I honestly think they are worth the money. Here's a little secret: you can get designer jeans for super cheap at certain stores. Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx, Marshall's and consignment stores should have some for dirt cheap. I just got an amazing pair of Joe's Jeans for $100 less than the selling price. Also keep an eye out for sales. Nordstrom's anniversary sale in July is a great time to buy jeans.

About every season, another jeans trend debuts. I tend to ignore them because rarely are they practical, useful for regular wear or even flattering on most bodies. It's usually best to just say no to super distressed, super tight, super ripped or super wide jeans. I have to admit, I did get a pair of turquoise colored jeans though ;)

When you go shopping, set out a good chunk of time. Buying the right pair of jeans is a process that usually takes a long time so don't expect to find a pair when you only have half an hour. Also, try to go when you don't feel crappy or bloated. If you already feel yucky, trying on lots of jeans and staring at yourself in the mirror a lot won't be enjoyable at all.

Get lots of different types and brands of jeans to try on. Also grab a couple sizes since each brand sizes their jeans differently. If you get lots of styles to try on - bootcut, skinny, straight, trouser - so you can decide which looks best on you and which you like the most. If you're lucky, you'll be able to get a salesperson who will grab different styles and sizes for you. If not, don't be afraid to ask for another size. It's really annoying to have to put your clothes on again just to go get a size smaller or bigger.

As a general rule, dark wash jeans are the most flattering on pretty much everyone. It slims you and smoothes everything out. The most important thing to look for is a good fit through the hips and thighs. If the jeans fit perfectly in those areas but are too long, it's very easy to get them hemmed. Some stores will even do the hemming for free.

One last thing: the size is just a number. Don't freak out if you're a 6 in one brand and a 10 in another. That's totally normal.

Happy shopping!
Love, A