Last week I received a question about the new “skinny” jeans.  The question was if everyone could wear them.  In short, I say “yes” everyone can wear them, but perhaps not everyone should.  Today jeans are distressed, boyfriend, skinny, acid washed and trouser.  What’s a woman to do?

Jeans are on the short list of things women have a love-hate relationship with.  They love them because once found they are their new BFF, but finding them is a difficult thing to accomplish.  Do you really have to spend $100’s on the right pair of jeans for yourself?  Maybe so…maybe not….manufacturers realize and understand that jeans are here to stay and there are jeans at every price point.

Let me just say that I encourage you to approach your denim as an investment in you.  Have you ever worn out a pair of jeans in a year?  Think about how much you are willing to spend on a bathing suit, a pair of shoes, a coat and consider how often you wear these items.  Changing your focus on what is important for you to look great in one of the biggest core pieces you will ever own is critical to the success of your wardrobe.  So, to get the best jean for you, you just might have to spend a few more dollars.  I encourage you to research before you buy.

Here you’ll find the latest trends in denim and how to wear them to look good and create your style.  Don’t forget to take it all the way or you will run the risk of looking “OL”  (old lady), dated or a trend gone bad and remember balance and proportion to make it work.

“Skinny” simply refers to the leg opening rather than the jean itself.  I am not a big fan of the skinny jean for myself.  Those of you who have thicker calves will also find them less comfortable.  The key to having a good looking “skinny” jean is to make sure that they fit snug (not tight) around the waist and have the right amount of stretch.  The stretch is what will give you the comfort in getting them on and not too confined. You don’t want more than a 3-4% stretch or you will find they “bag out” after a few hours. (Photos from Levi.com)

How to wear: Always  balance the ’skinny’ on the bottom with something larger on top.  A tunic, sweater or peasant blouse for example and lots of chains, boots, heels or wedges.

“Boyfriend” refers to a looser baggier style through the hips and thighs.  It is called “boyfriend” because it may appear that you are wearing your boyfriend’s jeans.  I like this trend because it is a fun casual look.  Often seen as ripped, torn, and distressed you need to wear this look with attitude or you will look as if you just came in from the fields.  This is an easy look to pull off because it is not as confining as the skinny jean.  Try this one out but make sure you take the look all the way. (Photos from Levi.com)

How to wear: If you are over the age of 25 and not “hanging out with the stars” be careful about adopting the ripped, torn, distressed look.  It is hard to carry off for anyone with their youth in the rear view mirror.  If you like the boyfriend look, go for the less distressed look.  Wearing them to a ball game or a casual get together might be fine.  Dress it up and don’t get too full on top.  This look is fuller on the bottom, so you’ll need to show some shaping on top.  Wear them rolled up, with a belt, a “boyfriend” (longer) sweater-belted or fitted, flats or pumps, a scarf around your neck and a cool watch.

“Trouser” is across the board a more dressy and body forgiving style.  It tends toward darker washes (also a more dressy look).  In addition it is also fuller through the seat and thigh area.  If you have curves, go ahead and try trouser jeans.  Donna Karan developed a trouser pant that is cut on the bias and truly moves with the body.  (It moves the wallet too!)  With the resurgence of the “bohemian” look of the 70’s Levi has reintroduced their 1970’s and 1974 flares. (Photos from Levi.com)

How to wear: Wear the out on a date, casually with flats, wedges or pumps, a t-shirt or a crisp white blouse.  Just note that it is no longer “cool” for your trouser jeans to drag and fray.  So if you love them, get them in two lengths-one to wear with heels/wedges and one to wear with flats and you are good to go.

These are the Donna Karan “Sculpted-Bias” Jean.  They are really beautiful and at a beautiful price of $595.

Have fun with the new trends and remember:

“Look good, feel great and have fun doing it!”

Want to copy this article?  You must copy the entire article including the following information.  Karen C. Hughes, AICI CIP Image Assets, email:  Karen@ImageAssets.net, on the web: www.ImageAssets.net
Posted by: Karen Hughes, Founder of Image Assets, an Image Consulting Firm serving the Alpharetta and Metro Atlanta areas. As a seasoned certified image consultant, Karen follows a simple philosophy: educate, empower, and enrich the lives of her clients. Her philosophy is enmeshed throughout her practice and can be observed in her workshops, clinics, and one-on-one consultations. Her energetic and interactive style makes her a sought-after training resource for organizations and individuals alike. Even the most difficult topics seem effortless for Karen as she tackles such challenges as professional etiquette, business dress personal image and body shape.

Posted by Karen Hughes on July 16th, 2009 in How To, Jeans