Jeans all the way

Fabric and stitching

The quality of jeans depends on the fabric used and the stitching, as it determines the longevity of the jeans. Heavier denims are often of higher quality than lightweight ones since more threads have been used. Heavier denim also lasts longer and softens over time, thus hugging your curves better.

Light-weight denim can be of poor quality, with the exception of those designed for summer wear specifically. If you are opting for lightweight jeans, go for those that are stretchy and breathable. Also, look around the hems, pockets and side seams to ensure that the stitching has been done right. Durable jeans often have double stitching or chain-stitching, but single stitching can work too if the thread is heavy.

The right cut

Depending on the fit, you can use jeans to complement your figure, and highlight specific areas to give you a flattering silhouette. If you have an hourglass figure, opt for a boot cut, or flare jeans. Both are fitted through the thighs, and then loosens up from the knee, thus giving you a snug, flattering fit.

Avoid jeans that do not stretch. Without the stretching, you would have an unseemly gap at the waist, which can look ill-fitting. As women with a pear shape figure also have issues with gaping at the waist, mid-rise or high-rise stretch jeans can be a lifesaver. These will keep your hips compact thanks to their contoured waistband, while the stretchy fabric will give the illusion of longer legs. Large pockets will also complement your figure. You could also try out flares for an hourglass effect, but avoid low-rise, light colours and rigid denims at all costs.

If you are a plus size, the right jeans are usually mid-rise ones that help balance your hips, while creating the illusion of longer legs. While boot cuts and flares can look flattering, straight leg jeans would be best suited for your body type. This cut would skim your shape just enough for an overall slenderising effect, especially if you opt for a darker wash.

However, stay away from cropped styles which can make your legs look small.

You can easily rock the skinny jeans look, which will create a curvier silhouette. Opt for low-rise ones, as the high-waisted jeans can make your waistline look boxier. You could also use back pockets with flaps, and various embellishments to create the illusion of a curvier figure.

Pay attention to details

While buying a pair of jeans, keep in mind exactly what areas of your body you want to accentuate. Quite often, just minding your body type is not enough. If a muffin top is your major concern, avoid low-rises, which can create a layer of flabs that sit atop the waistband. Instead, choose those with firm fabric in the waist area.

If you are petite, and you want something that elongate the legs, try a snug-fitting darker washed straight-leg jeans which falls in a long, vertical line from the hips to the hems. Taller people can easily rock ankle length jeans without looking stumpy.

While going jeans shopping, wear shoes of height that you are most likely to wear regularly with those jeans. That way, you can see the leg length and whether the hem needs taking up.

Choosing colours

Whether, you are looking for light colours such as the bleach wash or darker finishes like the vintage; denim can be found in almost all hues of blue. Ideal for everyday wear, the classic blue jeans can be matched with a white top for a carefree low-maintenance look.

You do not have to just stick to the classic blue when it comes to jeans anymore! From monochrome colours to even patterns, jeans can be found in almost every shade you can think of. If you want to stick to earthy tones, opt for olive greens or brown shades. You could even find them in floral patterns or polka dots.

Women can try a wide range of shades from pink to plum, and everything in between. If you do not fear to try bold shades, there is always a magenta, yellow, or orange! And, if all else fails, you have your basic blue jeans to save the day.

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

Model: Arpita

Make-up: Farzana Shakil's Makeover Salon

Styling: Sonia Yeasmin Isha

Location: Pan Pacific Sonargaon, Dhaka