Denim Style: Expand Your Horizons!
Are skinny jeans dead? Lately, it’s the question I have been hearing most from all my clients. And the short answer is no. I am a firm believer in dressing in what makes you feel best. If skinny jeans make you feel good, then wear them! If fitted correctly, skinny style jeans can be one of the most flattering styles out there.
But I know what you are thinking. Every store is filled with non-skinny jeans. What’s a girl to do? You should get excited! Because, for the first time in a decade, the fashion world is finally mainstreaming other denim styles. I am all about helping people expand their personal style so here is the “skinny” on which ones you need to try!
The Stovepipe
This is one of my absolute favorite styles. The leg on a stovepipe jean will still be slim through the thigh and knee, but not skinny. It will be ever so slightly tapered at the ankle but not tight. The fabric usually has a vintage look and feel. Perfect for almost any type of shoe, it’s the feminine version of the straight-leg jean. This style is effortless.
The Straight
The straight-leg jean is one of the most masculine jeans out there. But at the same time, the fashion world has found a way to make them one of the most elevated styles. It usually sits high on the waist, but who doesn’t love a high rise at this point in life? The fit will be fitted in the hip and straight down from there to the ankle. The length should hit right below the ankle. Choose a few rips to add even more character. This style is paired with more feminine tops and shoes to balance out the masculine look.
The Bootcut
It never really went out of style, but has remained a consistent runner-up to the skinny for many years. Making a true comeback this spring, the bootcut jean will elongate any torso. Look for the highest rise you can find to make you appear to have legs for days. Typically styled with higher heels, it’s also being shown with sneakers on some of the young ones, which is making me go down memory lane of my college days. Tip: if the bottom of your bootcut jeans starts to fray, it’s time for them to go!
The Cropped Boot
Also one of my favorite styles, the cropped boot has been around for quite a while. It mostly surfaced in the spring and summer and then started venturing into the fall-winter seasons. The cropped boot is a great style for so many body types because it does a little something for everyone. If you’re more of a rectangle, they will give you more shape at the hip and ankle. If you are apple- or pear-shaped, the bottom flare will balance out your tummy and hip area. Wear easily with a sandal, sneaker, heel or bootie. The trick is either you show a lot of ankle or none at all.
Now, for all the skinny jean lovers out there, do not get rid of all of your jeans. If you love the way you look in them, or if skinny jeans are part of your personal style, then more power to you. However, I would encourage you to step out of the box and try a new style. It’s always a good idea to have something besides a skinny jean. Besides, variety is the spice of life (and style). ■
Written by: Abby Wood
Abby Wood is a wardrobe stylist and style blogger in Kansas City, and her education in design plus retail experience make her an expert in fit, fabric, style and trends. Her professional experience in fashion began with an apprenticeship with a bridal designer, shifted to creating and showing her own line, moving up to management and training at a retail level and now professional styling as an independent consultant. Abby loves to help individuals develop and evolve their own sense of style.
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