Recently, a good friend of mine asked me to recommend a pair of skinny jeans that would be her first purchase in this genre of denim. I think you all will agree with me that anything labeled as “skinny” is either intimidating (like the aforementioned jeans) or not as appealing (lattes, for example). Regardless of their name, I can assure you that these jeans can be flattering on women of all figures, sizes and ages.
Now, given that these are her first pair, my recommendations were true blue, tried and true standard denim. I love my black and grey jeans (often reaching for them more often than my blue ones) and I also can make a compelling argument for colored, printed and waxed denim. But…what is a wardrobe without a simple, classic pair of blue jeans? Not too much distressing, fading and whiskering but also not pure, dark indigo – just a kick-around, dress-up/dress-down, cool pair of blue denim skinnies.
The Classic: J Brand Mid-Rise Skinny Jean
J Brand are probably my current favorites. With no stitching detail on the rear pockets, they are a clean, great fitting pair of jeans. Sometimes they tend to run small, so I would suggest trying multiple sizes. I bought the mid-rise rail skinnies 2 years ago and still wear them a ton.
Like-Legging Jeans: AG The Legging Jean
AG makes a great pair of jeans. The legging jean sounds scarier than they are – a super soft denim that is great for everyday wear. Not too much stretch, making them too tight; however, they will stretch out, so you will want them form-fitting when you first put them on.
The Curve Hugger: Paige Verdugo Ultra Skinny Jean
Paige is often a favorite for girls with some curves (more generously cut in the hips and narrow in the legs). These are their classic skinny jean in a very clean wash. Like most jeans, you will want these to be snug when you first try them, as they will stretch.
The No-Nonsense Jean: DL1961 Amanda Skinny Jean
DL1961 boasts amazing technology guaranteed not to bag out – and it really is true. That means, however, no stretch or give. These jeans really hold their shape and suck you in so, again, I would try multiple sizes keeping this in mind. And, unlike the jeans above, they will not stretch with wear – so what you see, is what you get.
Jammie Jeans: Genetic Denim ‘The Shya’ Jean
Genetic makes a pair of jeans that honestly feels like you are wearing your jammies. They maintain their shape (even for being so comfy) and wash well. In fact, I am wearing my pair here.
Not Your Mom’s “Mom Jeans”: Citizens of Humanity Rocket Skinny Jean
Citizens of Humanity also makes a great jean. The “rocket” has a high rise (9.5 inches compared to the standard 7-8”), which will seem really high if you are used to wearing low-rise jeans. However, they are great for kid play (if you have kids or not) because you never have to worry about exposing your rear end when constantly bending over. I was skeptical at first, but now I am a believer (with 3 pairs).
The Rockstar: Old Navy Rockstar Skinny Jean
These Old Navy jeans are aptly named as they are, not only a great fit, but also a rock’n price. These are their classic blue skinny; however, I would also definitely recommend these jeans if you are looking to experiment with color, print or texture because their price point is unbeatable. In fact, I am wearing the waxed version here.
Lastly, my skinny-jean rookie asked, “What shoes?” Any, really. Of course tall boots and ballet flats are simple, but booties, oxfords and loafers work great too. I fool around with cuffing versus tucking versus leaving straight depending on my mood and the shoe. Some shoes beg for a bit of skin showing (an ankle bootie, for example) while a classic ballet flat or moccasin looks good with the jeans un-cuffed. The only shoe I would caution against with skinny jeans is something too chunky (clogs, athletic shoes, etc.) that could throw off the proportions of the slim leg of the pants.
So there you have it – my best of the blues. What are you favorites? Send them my direction; I’m always on the hunt for the perfect pair of jeans. You can never have too many, right?!
