When I set out to go shopping for jeans last Wednesday, I was about 87% sure that tears would be involved…or at least that I would go home in a discouraged funk. Jean shopping is just hard. They might fit well in one place, but not in another. They’re comfy, but they’re not flattering. They’re flattering, but they’re not comfy.
Living in a small town, I have limited options. When I didn’t find a winning pair at GAP, I went to the Levi’s Outlet. Of course, Levi’s, being a jean company, had a wall full of jeans. I started exploring all of the options and combinations. There are a lot! Different styles, rises, colors and Curve IDs. I knew I wanted skinny jeans (I looked at the skinny and slim), so I could wear them with boots and I think they flatter my figure best. I don’t like low rise jeans. They just don’t do anything for me. So, I thought I’d try modern or classic rise.
Since I’m curvy, I assumed I would fit best in one of the jeans geared towards curvy girls. I tried a few different combos on and they weren’t fitting right. In the dressing room, there is a graphic showing common jean fit issues…muffin top, gaping waistband, not flattering, etc. The jeans I was trying felt too tight in the waist, so I tried a Classic Rise, Slim Cut, Slight Curve dark jean.
The Slight Curve cut doesn’t pull in as much at the waist, so it creates a smoother profile as opposed to making me look bumpy. Let’s face it…when you’re lopping over your jeans, that doesn’t flatter.
So, despite the fact that I have curves, I only have a slight curve from my hips to my waist. These jeans are comfy and flatter. Now, just because these work for me doesn’t mean they will work for you, but I was impressed how Levi’s addressed common fit issues with women’s jeans and, because of that, I was able to find a pair I love.
It seems I’m not alone in my search for great jeans. Many women left comments on this post sharing the results of their own searches. My mom told me she took notes and is going to try some out!
If you want to share your favorite jeans to help others who are searching, please feel free to leave a comment below. Try to include the brand name, cut/style and your body shape, etc, so it can help other readers.
PS – This isn’t a sponsored post. I’m just sharing my experience, because many of you asked for the details. Levi’s has no idea who I am! 🙂
92 Responses
Gotta love a pair of good fitting jeans! The Gap and Levi’s jeans are some of my favorite.
Hello,
I do not know why you keep saying that you are “curvy”. I think you’re just perfect and look so wonderful!
Annie 🙂
Annie, because “curvy” doesn’t mean anything bad; it just means that the structure of the body has a bit more of a curve than “average” bodies. For example, a smaller waist in proportion to slightly larger hips. People with “hourglass” shaped bodies are more likely to need a “curvy” fit so that the waistband is small enough and the hips are big enough.
I’m a curvy gal with the typical hourglass figure and I can definitely relate to jeans being a pain. I’ve found that the DENIZEN jeans in a curvy fit are best, and I personally get the petite skinny jeans because I’m super short (and skinny jeans don’t overwhelm my figure and make me look shorter). You can find them at Target for maybe $25.They’re super flattering and super comfy.
Really cute! Most of my outfits are skinny jeans and loose blouses, so I love the look! You look great. I’m going to try those jeans!
I have big hips and a smaller waist, but like the tight legs look. Any ideas?
Well, you look fabulous! 🙂
For those living in Europe: 2 years ago I discovered Marks&Spencer as a jeans brand. I actually used to avoid it before, as their other things, dresses and so, seemed to me rather not interesting, proper maybe for really elderly ladies. But they offer comfy, nice fitting pairs for very competitive prices and each in various lengths. I love Levi’s, but here in Poland they sell for a bit insane prices, when compared to the U.S., so M&S is my go-to brand now.
What a wonderful feeling. I have yet to find my perfect pair, but you have given me hope!
I love how those look on you! Your outfit is wonderful. Di
Your jeans look great on you! Like the outfit too 🙂
Generally, the best jeans in the US are Seven (for all mankind) jeans. They are usually about $175-200 but you can get them at Nordstrom Rack for around $99 for last season’s styles. They sound really pricy but they fit and flatter like NO other jean and generally just look perfect.
Yes, I can attest that Seven for all Mankind are the best and well worth the price. I’m not sure how they do it, but they do!
I want to be able to tuck my jeans into my boots and wish I would give that style a try. You look great in yours!!! I’ll have to look into the pair you got.—met you at the Chapel Market event and we are similar in body shape–I think. I’ve been wearing Riders that Stacy London endorses in magazines. I get them at Wal-Mart.
Love those jeans on you… they really do look nice. I have a favorite pair of jeans that came from Coldwater Creek that I bought several years ago. They are a dark indigo color and have a little bit of stretch fabric in them which makes them super comfortable. However, that style has since been discontinued and I cant find any that love near as much.
You look great Marian! Love the jeans, but those boots! I love a good pair of riding boots! Is there no Furniture Feature this week because of SNAP?
I just went on a scary trip for new jeans……..I came home with a pair of Boot cut mild stretch from the Gap………10 Long……..They are already broken in and I just LOVE them…….and the price was right…Under ten dollars……I LOVE levis too…..I am 5’7″ 130 lbs and I need them LONG……34×36 is my estimation…….Fabulous………Mid rise…….zipper closure, not buttons…….. Ranch Hand cool……..Worn in but not holes etc…….No spots or stains……..I had to really dig my way thru a sea of jeans but it paid off…..Yeah for me! I prefer my jeans be pre owned and broken in……..
Happy for you to have found a great pair! 🙂 Unfortunately, Levi’s don’t work for me. I used to love 515 bootcuts, but they aren’t the same now that they’ve changed to all the fit combos, and I haven’t found a combo yet that works for me. Fortunately, I did find some jeans I love! Liz Claiborne from J.C. Penney. I have a fairly straight waist. I am 5’6, and have a long torso, so most jeans are WAY too long for me (since my height comes from my torso, and not my legs). Petite jeans sometimes are the right length, but they’re almost always too short in the rise. Anyway… The Liz Claiborne jeans I found are just perfect for me – the waist is high enough and straight enough, the length is not too long, and the bootcut is flattering. Now, I bought mine before JC Penney changed CEOs and then changed CEOs again, so I have no idea if I can still get them. I need to go shopping soon, though, as I just had to iron a patch in my favorite pair this week! 🙂
Marian, you look really great in those jeans and that outfit. I am a Levi’s girl, and have been since the early 70s! I am slim, only a slight butt, and I hate baggy jeans. I like mine to fit in the thighs (and calves if I choose the skinny style), and I get med length. I am 5’4″, about 110-115# and here is my round up of my Levi’s all-time favorites:
Boot cut – 515 dark rinse
Capri – 545
and, for the bargain of bargains, last year I found Mid-Rise Skinny Levi Signature jeans (dark rinse) at Wal Mart for…drum roll, please…$20!! I bought 3 pr of those bad boys. 🙂
I live in a small town, and since I’m 5’10” and usually need a long jean, I’ve had a difficult time finding jeans. I’m never keen to pay full retail, so resale and consignment stores have been go-to places for me. Always on the lookout for jeans at my favorite haunts, I recently found a pair of Paige jeans that look, feel and fit great! I’d never heard of the brand before when I bought them at the resale store, but googled them when I got home and found that Nordstrom’s sells them for $185-$200. I got them for $15. Love that about resale!
If you’re tall, try Diane Gilman jeans at HSN. I am almost 5’8″ and I like her Skinny Jegging in a Tall (it’s basically just a straight leg jean, lol). I got them on sale for $8 in January and they fit so well, I went back and bought 6 more. Average price is around $40 but I could never find any that were long enough.
I’m curvy too – think hourglass. I have an older pair of levi’s I really like – they fit me good through the hips and don’t gap at the waist. I can’t remember what they are called. I was so sorry when levi’s moved their manufacturing to Mexico! We try to buy made in the USA, but besides that, the jeans no longer fit the same!! For me or my husband. I agree, jean shopping is so hard. The skinny jeans look good on you, not so much on me. I’m short so a slight bootcut looks best on me – lengthens my legs. Boot season is over here and I’ve already pulled out my short jeans (not really capris, not sure what you’d call them). I want to find a pair of those jeans that are not really skinny, but fitted and roll up (cropped or capri length). This girl (in the south) lives in sandals from April till October! I have having my feet covered up LOL.
You look great Marian…yes, the older I get, the harder it is to find jeans that truly fit and feel good…will have to check out those Levi’s !!!
I must admit as I read the title of this blog I was expecting a jean covered sofa or chair.
Nope, it was something that soooooo many of your followers could use, like NOW!
Thanks for sharing!
Curvy, guilty! I am also petite as 5’4″, not as in size 0. Jeans that do fit me tend to be very expensive. I lost 40 pounds one year, went to the store I normally buy jeans from and went down in size to try on jeans. They were too tight. When I said something to the clerk she said the company had resized the jeans. I was furious.
I tend to keep the jeans I do buy a lot longer and I make alterations and repairs. I took an online Craftsy class on fitting jeans. I got personal help from the designer on how to fit my jeans since I have a long torso on short legs and my jeans usually “puff up” when I sit down. I learned to cut and resew that area. I am now making my own pants.
I did put a new tutorial on my blog about how to patch jean pockets etc. Frugal. A lot of the jeans being now are made of poor quality fabric AND thread. Find someone who can alter and make repairs to your clothes, especially if you are short like me.
I have been wearing Jag jeans and love them. They are pull on , no zipper and come in slim. Check them out on their website. jag.com.
jagjeans.com. Sorry!!!!
You look fantastic in those jeans! I recommend to anyone who finds jeans that fit well–BUY SEVERAL PAIRS! Jeans are a staple and as long as they’re not too trendy, you can wear them until they fall apart.
I share your consternation about buying a great fitting pair of jeans! However, I have discovered LUCKY jeans and now that is all I buy. The salesperson looks you over, discusses what you are hoping to find and proceeds to bring piles of jeans. If one doesn’t work, another one might. They are patient and really “get it” when it comes to fitting women in good looking, body flattering jeans. I highly recommend Lucky jeans to you–they even have outlet stores. I love my Lucky jeans and get lots of compliments on them.
You look fabulous! Those are a great fit! I too suffer from the dreaded tears or funk that only trying on jeans (or swimsuits) can produce. My favorite jeans at the moment are DKNY SOHO skinny and I’ve found them at TJ MAXX. A skinny jean with a higher waist and just enough stretch so that I still feel like I am wearing jeans, not leggings–for me they are perfect! But, I plan on going on a LEVI search now..
I agree. I love my DKNY Soho Jeans I found at TJMaxx for $30. They have 2 or 3% Lycra in them so they have some give. Mine are bootcut and sit just below the waist – they’re perfect! but I can’t find them anywhere else for the same price. Will definitely check out the Levi’s and the Seven that others have recommended. Love your practical posts!!! Thanks!
Those jeans look awesome…I may have to to take a look at Levis again after many years of avoiding them!
I agree with Jennie. Try JCPenney’s Liz Claiborne. I bought a pair recently and love them. They are decently priced, also.
My fav right now are Chico’s 1.5 but only certain ones. I have always loved Levis. Will go and check these out now. They look great! You always do!!! 🙂
You look fabulous! Jeans shopping stinks. I have a few brands Iove and it’s all I wear. I tend to go up and down between 2 sizes depending on weather haha!! It’s working outside and sweating so much that drops me down 2 sizes and I slowly go back up. Ugh.
Anyway- true religion and Hudson are my all times favorites- I love how they can be dressed up or down, make my larger hiney not seem as late and droopy
Levi’s 515 are my all time favorite jeans. Because I have long legs I know I can always find something to fit. I like a bit of stretch too. Especially at the top because my Menopause middle likes to create the dreaded muffin top. I’m with you on classic rise. I miss the days when I used to buy 29 x 34 but oh well…life goes on and size 12 long works for me now 🙂
Hugs!
oops, silly me forgot to mention how terrific you look. 🙂
I’m 5’5″ pear shaped:/
I keep working at wearing what’s flattering on me
but afraid I’ve had to just not do the skinny jean craze.
I think they look So cute on all other body types.
But like you Marian & others, I need to do what looks nice on me.
It Does more for my pscyche:) than whatever is In.
DENIZEN by LEVIS have been a great find for me.
And they sell them in my go to stores:
TJMaxx & Target!
❤
I found the cutest jeans at TJ Maxx by Seven 7 and I love the fit. I have since then found that brand at Steinmart as well as Amazon…the fit is true through out each style I have tried on so I feel confident ordering on line.
You look adorable. Hugs, Di
Marian, You look terrific! There is nothing like a good pair of jeans to put a little bounce in your step. I love Levi’s 505 straight. They sit a few inches below my belly button so, I am not strangled when I indulge. They have a nice curve through the hip and thigh which fits my particular curves. Curves look good on women. They say “I’ve had children” or offer a soft spot for child to lean a head or a nice fit for your husband’s hand. Kudos for embracing yourself and your curves!
I struggled for years trying to find the right fit in jeans. If they fit everywhere else the waist gapped or they didn’t have a long enough “rise”, etc. etc. Then I discovered NYDJ (Not Your Daughter’s Jeans) jeans sort of by accident. (I had no idea what NYDJ stood for!!) They are fabulous for those of us who like our jeans to come to just below the waist instead of hip-huggers and have some “give” to them. They are the most comfortable (and still stylish) jeans I have ever worn. Just saying’ . . . .
I hear you! I hate shopping for jeans and bathing suits. I have a curvy figure so I’ve found that Ann Taylor works for best. There are several fits and I like the curvy boot fit. For skinny jeans… I love NY&Co curve creator skinny jeans. And for a slouchy fit… I like the Gap boyfriend jeans. BTW… You look awesome in your Levi’s!
Marion,
You do look great in your Lee rider jeans. I am short 5ft 1 inch. mid 60’s My favorite jeans are made by NYDJ. Fiber content is 85% cotton , 14% nylon and 1 % spandex. They run large so you can always purchase a size smaller than you normally wear. Not your daughters jeans , come in many styles including leggings. They are a high waisted which makes them very comfy for me.
. While these jeans are costly , $100 ech you can get them at Nordstrom ‘s rack for $49.
Nothing better than jeans that fit like a glove!
I recently bought a great pair of jeans at Ann Taylor Loft! The “The Modern Skinny”, has a higher rise (holds in the muffin top) fits really well thru the hips and thighs. I’m 57 years old, and the younger stylish gals (30s and 40s) at work liked them so much and was quite surprised when I told them they came from the Loft. (for size comparison, I’m 5’7 and
138 Ibs and bought a size 6, generally I wear a size 8 pants/jeans at Ann Taylor and the Loft). Coincidentally, Renee at “Cottage and Vine” blog recently posted about jeans from the Loft…check out her comments, too.
(Thought I’d mention, it’s also a coincidence that my name is Renee, too;))
I hate shopping period, but I had to giggle when you described the jeans you tried as “Classic Rise, Slim Cut, Slight Curve dark jean”. Almost sounds like an order at Starbucks.
They look great on you Marian! After this baby is born and my body is back to normal clothes shape I’ll have check these out. I definitely need something that has a curve to it but doesn’t cinch in a ton at the waist. Slight curve might be my shape!
Lee jeans for everyday and NYDJ for when I’m feeling plush.
W-M used to have good jeans but the quality has gone to the dogs. They tear at the pockets and lots of other places, too,
NYDJ fabric is not classic jeans fabric, but looks good. They would look better if dry cleaned but i live where it’s 50 miles to the nearest decent cleaners, so gentle cycle on washer has to do it.
Thanks for all the comments with the names of other brands I can try when I got to the city.
Thanks to Marian for her post on this important topic. A furniture painter who doesn’t feel comfortable in her clothes is an unhappy furniture painter!
I also buy JAG jeans but my favorites are NYDJ. They feel great, come in different styles and washes and really help flatten the tummy area. They have a great selection in Petites. I buy a size down.
I like talbot’s boot cut jeans. I get them when there is a sale. I have short legs and curvy.
Try Uni Qlo if in the UK! £9.90 and the best fit ever for a 5′ 7″ 125 lb pear shape…
Okay…… Super pretty are you!!! That’s all! :0)
Hope you’re having a blast this weekend!
Smiles!
Terry
DG2 by Diane Gilliam on HSN. Do not go a size up if you are inbetween sizes. Once you find your size they run true to size time after time.
I love that they are offered in colors and have jackets and tops to match.
I recently purchased a khaki pair that are comfortable like jeans should be but also a little more dressy.
Price is around 49 bucks but sometimes they offer flex pay. Quality is very good and I have never had a problem with any of the jeans that I have purchased which is now around 12 pairs.
I always have trouble finding a good fitting pair of jeans. Glad to hear that I’m not alone in this. I’ve found for me that Liz Claiborne and Talbots jeans fit best. I don’t like that all of the jeans I have been seeing now are thin fabric and stretchy. Whatever happened to the thicker jeans of yesterday. They fit better and looked better.
Just the word “Jeans” makes me cringe until I found….NY & Co. legging jeans for boots and NY & Co curve creator skinny jeans. I just went to get another pair of the leggings but SOLD OUT. Hopefully they will bring them back in the fall.
Your jeans look fabulous, a perfect fit. I find it difficult to get jeans but always manage to find a pair of perfect Levi’s. I feel I am a little curvy around the hips and find boot cut suit me best although I would love to wear some slim hugging ones. I have put on 5kg I need to loose as the jeans I bought a year ago no longer fit me. Sometimes it is harder to loose a few pounds than if you have to loose a lot….weird!
Lee
Those look amazing!!! I have to tell you, when my husband met you he said “she is not what I thought”. I asked him what he meant and he said ” I did not expect her to be so hip”. I thought it was cute. You look great!!!
NYDJ, Not your Daughter’s Jeans are by far the best jeans on the market. They come in a wide range of shapes, styles and colours. My favourite thing to do is to order them online from Zappos (free shipping, free returns). While they might be pricey they are worth every penny. I am short and curvy, so I buy petite for the length and rise. I love their “Barbara bootcut” and I always but a darker denim, more flattering on any shape!!! BTW, you look great in your Levis’ , happy for you that you found a pair that fits, without shedding any tears!!!
You look great! Good jeans are hard to find! I am 5’7″ and 135# and once scored a pair of Seven for All Mankind at a GARAGE SALE for $10! They are my fave jeans ever and fit great. I read once that they have bum-lifting technology and I believe it! They just always look great and fit great in the waist. I have loooong legs and an hourglass figure and they are the perfect length. Although they are probably close to $200 new I would totally spend the dough on another pair- they are that great. I also love Old Navy’s Diva skinnies because they are good length and tight in the waist. And much cheaper!
Levi’s know a thing or two about jeans! Those jeans are perfect. Rock em’ girl!
You are rockin those jeans. Yes, finding the right pair of jeans is very difficult…try finding a size 0 that is age appropriate for someone 64. The only thing I could find was at Talbots, higher in the waist and look more like dress slacks. I have to say I do love them and they are very comfortable.
CABI jeans are the best! You will have to find an outlet center or attend a home party.
Hi Marian, first time for me commenting after following your awesome blog for years. Gotta throw in my two cents for Lee Riders from Kmart for 25 bucks. Boot cut, dark rinse and just a bit of spandex so they’re super comfortable. For the record, I’m 5’5″, 150 lbs, smallish waist but a pot belly. These fit perfect and they’re so affordable.
I too am curvy and my favorite skinny jeans are Michael Korrs. Love em.
J.
I always have a couple of pairs of Levis in my closet. Great jeans, however I have noticed that in the last couple of years the dye rubs off on your hands & legs. Takes a few (bunch) of washing before it stops. Even tried setting the die by adding vinegar to the wash.
I call them my “Smurf” jeans:)
oops that should have been dye:)
You look stunning!!! Way to go on all of your hardwork to get there! The jeans are cute too!
Looking good, MMS! I’ve also been discouraged in the jeans search. I read on a forum recently about NYDJ jeans, and although they’re $$$, they come with some pretty glowing reviews on Amazon. Since my lifestyle requires only one pair of decent jeans, I thought I’d gamble, fully expecting to return them if not 110% satisfied. Well, I’m keeping them, and actually considering another color for the summer months. They’re as comfortable as some of my slobby pants, but look great and get this – they don’t bag after an hour’s wear!
I tried the NYDJ after reading all the glowing reviews — a big disappointment fit-wise, at least for my figure. I’m 5’8, 135lbs, a little hipp-y (NOT hippie!) and they just did NOT flatter. Too high in the rise, and very matronly. The search continues . . . .
I live in a large metro area so I have access to lots of shopping venues. But one great option I use a lot for snagging a pair of higher end jeans at a decent price is through Ebay. When you try on jeans and find a pair/brand that fit, make note of brand, style name, the fabric content {this is important as some brands will have the same pant but with different % of elastine, etc.}. Then head to the auctions☺ I’ve scored jeans that normally sell for over $150 for as little as $30.
I have had great success with Levis as well…but my problem is exactly the opposite of yours! I don’t really look curvy but my waist relative to my hips is small and I have the “gap.” I always call it the bucket because I feel like the legs are tight and then the top could hold a gallon of water! Anyway…..they measured me at the Levi’s store and it turns out I am a “bold curve” girl and sometimes a “demi curve.” I can usually find a pair of jeans that fit there! I love when that happens!
By the way, you look really cute in your outfit! :-)!
Congrats on finding jeans you are happy with! They look terrific! I love Levis but I have noticed lately it’s getting harder to find fabric color I am happy with! I don’t care for the” dirty” look or all the “crosshatch” on the fabric! I wish they would just bring back blue! Dark or light just plain old blue with no “extra” design. Enjoy your new jeans!
I live near a small town with limited shopping but found Liverpool Jeans at a little boutique. They are the best jeans I have found, and I have tried everything from Gap, Levi’s, to Not Your Daughter’s and Seven For All Mankind…Liverpool come in many washes and even colors. They come skinny or boot cut etc. They also have fabulous stretch that doesn’t bag even after hours on a plane! To top that all off- they have Beatles Songs written inside along with the British Flag…How cool is that! They are a bit pricey but worth it! Try them if you can find them…You’ll love them!:)
You look adorable!!! Jeans and all:)
Marian: That Levi outlet is just over the border for us. I think I will have to check them out! Thanks for the tips.
What’s Happening i am new to this, I stumbled upon this I have discovered It absolutely helpful and it has aided
me out loads. I hope to contribute & help different users like its
helped me. Good job.
The best jeans I have found are ” Not Your Daughter’s Jeans” No low rise, no more fitting the waist and the legs are so skinny you can’t even try to put your legs in. You can get them at most retail stores ( Macy’s). You can buy online also. They fit so well that they recommend you get one size smaller than what you usually get. The fabric is great for making you smaller than normal. Love them.
I also wear Not Your Daughter’s Jeans. I am 5′ 3″ and a bit curvy, and I have loved every style I have tried on. The petites are plenty long enough for me. And yes, buy one size smaller than you normally wear, as they are nice and stretchy, without being clingy. Make sure you are being honest with yourself when you are saying what size you normally wear, though!
Love Inc. Jeans from Macy’s! The curvy fit is terrific, They have stretch and actually go over the behind and stay there, the waist is a little high, but that works for my post 3 kids body. Even better…I wear a size lower than normal! They make several styles and finishes. They were on sale and I got them for $40!
I wear Gap 1969 curvy jeans in XLong. I am 6′ so I need the length. If you’re tall, Gap long jeans are definitely the way to go but I might have to pop into the Levi’s outlet too to scope their jeans out!
Jeanine
I am right on the line between “regular” and “plus-sized” at a US Womens’ size 20; I’ve got a fairly pronounced “hourglass” figure where bust & hips are wide whereas my waist is at least 2 full sizes smaller most of the time. (Obviously depending on manufacturer, cut, etc.)
All of which is to say, I have a heck of a time finding jeans that I love and that I feel look good on me. For ages I defaulted to Old Navy jeans, in their Sweetheart or Dreamer fit, because it was affordable and they’d WORK. They weren’t ideal, but they’d do. Then I got a coupon to use at the Lucky jeans website, and got to try their Ginger jeans. They are the most flattering, comfortable, high-end jeans I’ve ever worn, and by waiting for a coupon, I was able to get them for the same ballpark cost as my former Old Navy standbys. So I call it a score.
I also find that, 9 times in 10, Talbot’s makes fantastic jeans and pants for my body. I always have to hem them, but it’s worthwhile, IMO.
Happy denim hunting!
You look great – head to toe – I am 5’4″ and have skinny back end and legs – however my belly is bigger – any help?
I ‘ll embarrass myself here, to hopefully help someone my age. I’m 60, 5’3″, and weigh over 190 – I know, horrid! Clothes for me are the devil incarnate! I found C.J. Banks classic fit jeans work for me. Also like Style and Co. at Macy’s. I have almost all my weight in the waist and tummy, and these both are comfy and stylish. No “whiskers”, no distressed features. Even though I’m not in the best shape, I like to look neat and classy, and not pay over $40 for jeans. With sale prices, I rarely pay more than $30. Banks has a Jean sale once or twice a year, early spring and fall. Hope you find this helpful!
You look great Marian, but skinny doesn’t work for my figure unfortunately!
Thanks for sharing, Marianne! I’m sure there are a ton of women your size and they will benefit from you sharing what jeans work for you. 🙂
You look terrific! Wish that I could find a pair of jeans that flatters – unfortunately, I have just given up. It’s not worth the tears and frustration.
I had an absolute favorite pair in size 8 from Banana Republic about 15 years ago. I then developed severe thyroid issues (including thyroid cancer), which led to a huge weight gain and surgery. Am cancer free now, but no longer a size 8.
Despite trying Levi’s, Gap, Old Navy, Talbots, Banana Republic, etc., I have been unable to find a pair that doesn’t make me look frumpy, dumpy and about 40 pounds heavier than my current weight. I’ve joined gyms, pared my calories down to less than 1,000 per day, tried various diets, hired personal trainers, etc., to try to lose the weight – all with no success.
I don’t need the bash to my self-esteem and increased insecurity that comes from jeans shopping anymore, so I don’t wear them.
Oh, I really feel for you! I think we all have a hard time embracing our bodies, especially when we used to be much smaller. I struggle with that. I think it’s a huge thing to celebrate that you’re cancer free! Maybe you can have a pair of jeans custom made for you? I haven’t looked into that, but I’ve heard it’s not as expensive as you would think. Well, and if jeans don’t work for you, there are lots of other flattering clothes out there. I love that women who aren’t a size 8 have great fashion options and aren’t limited to moo-moos and leggings!
I’m sure you’re a beautiful woman.
While I adore NYDJ’s and have several pairs in all sorts of colors, I recently discovered (@ Nordstrom Rack), a pair of black Citizens of Humanity jeans, and may I say, they are just the best!!! Such a great fit, so soft; I feel like they were made for me. Originally, they were $188. and I got them for $29; now I wonder how I ever got along without them. They’ve become my wardrobe staple, so give them a whirl if you haven’t tried them. Definitely worth the investment. Lookin’ good, Marian!!!
I’ve tried finding the jeans you bought online with no luck. Can you say what “number” they are? Just going by the tag inside isn’t bringing them up online. Thanks.
Here’s the link to the exact jeans… http://us.levi.com/product/index.jsp?productId=28483586&&cp=3146849.3146880.3146898
Jeans, it’s a love/hate for sure! Seven for all Mankind, Citizens of Humanity and True Religion. All three are a bit pricey, but WELL worth the investment. I have pairs that are a few years old that still look (avoid always drying in the dryer) and fit as great as when I bought them! I also like Hollister and American Eagle for moderately priced brands.
Marian, I’m so glad you were able to find a pair of jeans that fit that you are happy with. They look terrific on you!
It sounds like companies are trying to “custom fit” jeans for women as best as they can these days, but one thing we must remember, is that “off the rack” clothes are really intended to be tailored later. What I mean by that is that most professional shoppers will tell you to buy the item of clothing that fits your largest body part comfortably, with no bagging or gapping, and make sure that things like sleeve length and collar size are close to perfect. The garments should then be taken to a seamstress or tailor to be adjusted so they fit better, which usually means taking the garment in at the waist, legs, or other places.
I know, I know, the entire reason we buy off the rack is to AVOID having to take things to be tailored, but in the case of dress clothing and, surprisingly, JEANS (because everyone wants the perfect fitting jeans), that is the best thing we can do to get a perfect fit for our individual bodies.
Levi’s 512, Perfectly Slimming, Straight Leg, are a great fit for me and come in petite. They have just enough stretch so they don’t bag out on me after a couple hours. Great for travel when you need to wear the same jeans more than once before washing. Also, the leg style is important in determining your style. I think straight leg are more slimming on shorter people such as myself. You look awesome, by the way.
Me and jeans do not get along. As a matter of fact, for years my sister told me I looked like a boy in jeans!! I’ve recently discovered Old Navy’s “rock star” mid rise skinny jeans and I like them pretty good. I have always had problems with a muffin top, but I have smaller legs and rear, so it was so hard finding a pair that fit. After reading the comments I’m going to try out Not Your Daughters Jeans.
You look fabulous, by the way!
Marian, you look fabulous in your Levi’s – thanks for sharing with us! I am so happy that you discovered Levi’s; they are the best. I found a Levi’s store in San Francisco ten years ago. Although I did not go for it, they will create a custom pair just for you. (Can you imagine?!) But I did discover what you learned: they create jeans that flatter real women. I have been a devotee since then. I wear them every day. The pockets are closer and higher on the rear, giving a fabulous shape when one walks away. I found a website last year to show how many brands of jeans can look on different body types. You may enjoy it: http://www.graspingforobjectivity.com/2012/02/jeans.html Thanks again!
-Ginni
I am 4′ 11” (yep pretty short) and weight 128 pounds – curvy in the waist and rear. Being so short but not super thin has always been a challenge buying pants. For years I had to roll them up or just opt out altogether. On a shopping trip with my youngest daughter I found America Eagle has a brand geared towards short people. My all time favorite is jeggings super stretch short. Hope this helps all the other height challenged girls 🙂
I’m curious as to what are the brand of boots you are wearing. I thought I had seen a post before telling the brand, but couldn’t find it anywhere.
Thanks!