Almost everyone owns a pair of jeans, which were created by Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis in 1973 and are still popular today. Since then, jeans have evolved into a fashion icon that never goes out of style, morphing and changing shape and color to provide us with a plethora of new-season trends and proving to be far more adaptable than we first anticipated.
We've seen a lot of different styles come and go, from slender to 'mom,' slim-fit to bootcut, and some of them have stuck around for a long time. While you can now buy jeans in almost any color you can think of – from bright red to mint green - basic blue denim has stayed ageless and has kept a consistent presence in our closets year after year.
While this casual classic may appear to be a no-brainer, selecting the proper pair to flatter your shape is crucial, and a high-quality, designer pair can last you for years, so it's always worth spending a little more to get the finest.
There are a number of elements to consider when looking for your perfect pair of jeans, from the shape and wash to fit and fabric, and while you can't go wrong with jog jeans for men or a simple pair of skinnies for women, the plethora of alternatives available today might feel daunting. So, if you're not sure where to begin, look no further since we've outlined exactly how to find the ideal pair.
STRENGTH
When looking for a pair of jeans, strength may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it should be. A good pair of well-made jeans will last a long time, so seek durable materials that will hold their form and won't show wear at the seams after a few wears. When it comes to finding a pair of jeans that fit like a glove, you'll want to make sure they stay that way - so be prepared to spend a little extra on a designer pair that will last the distance.
SHAPE
Most of us stick with the same jean shape year after year, but you could be missing out if you don't try new things. Try on a few different kinds at your favorite designer boutique the next time you're out shopping – you might be amazed how high-waisted 'mom' jeans can extend your legs, or how a bootcut pair can help balance out broader hips. Of course, it's tempting to go the other way and buy the newest design to hit the runway without putting it on first, but keep in mind that jeans are supposed to flatter your form, so choose a style that works for you and stick with it.
WASH
Come fashion week, each year offers a new rush of denim-related fads, with coral jeans for women, khaki jeans for men, and a slew of other colors for both having had their turn in previous years. Don't be afraid to experiment with other colors to spice up your style, but keep in mind that you can't go wrong with a pair of classic blue jeans, so keep one in your closet at all times.
Of course, it's not as simple as picking a pair that's 'blue,' because even within one color, there are a variety of washes to choose from. The latest styles to be seen fluctuate with the seasons, but a pair of stone-washed or mid-washed jeans will carry you through casual occasions and exude off-duty cool, while a deeper, inkier pair is ideal for nicer gatherings and events.
