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Must-Have Denim Trends for Fall

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We are finally in prime denim season. But are you bored with your basic skinny jeans? Are you looking to add some variety to your denim wardrobe? Well, look no further. Here are the top four denim trends that you need to try!

Coated denim
The coated denim finish is perfect for winter! With the look of leather and the feel of denim, it’s a win-win. Pair your coated denim jeans with a funky sweatshirt to dress them down or the perfect cream cable knit sweater to make them more classic. Feeling edgy? Look for the coated denim trend in a merlot color!

Frayed hem
This is a newer trend that we haven’t seen a lot of until now. It has the classic look of a skinny jean with the casual vibe of the boyfriend jean. If you are looking to update either of these basic styles, the unfinished hem is perfect. For the perfect length, the hem should hit right below the ankle.

Flares or Bootcut
From slim boot to flare, this trend is here to stay, and it’s my all-time favorite. As a shorter girl, I look for any way to add length to my legs, and a great flare does the trick. Stick to classic blue denim without any distressing for the most updated look. Wear with a taller heel and even your legs will appear long and slim.

Distressed Black Denim
Are you a trendsetter? Try a pair of black distressed skinny denim jeans. The black color is totally slimming and the distressed look is being seen everywhere. Try pairing this jean with a black bootie or boot. The extension of the black shoe will really elongate your leg. Who doesn’t want that in a jean?

You have your heart set on trying all of the trends, but how can you find the best fit? Fit is important with your entire wardrobe, but it’s vital when shopping for jeans. Here are tips and tricks for finding the best fitting denim!

Fabric Content
Check the tag for fabric content. Jeans of 100% cotton will stretch and sag and usually won’t bounce back until you wash them again. Always look for at least 2 to 3 percent Lycra or Spandex. Elasticity will extend the life of the denim and help it to keep its shape after wearing.

Fabric Grain
Look for the straight of the grain. Make sure the fabric is cut on the grain. You can tell by looking at the denim and checking to make sure the fabric is straight. Look for the faint vertical line in the weave of the denim. It should go from top to bottom and not horizontally into the seam. Most premium denim will be cut on the grain. You will be able to tell right away if it isn’t because the seams will twist as you wear them.

Don’t Worry about Size
Size doesn’t matter; every brand runs differently because they all use different fit models. You may be a size 28 in one brand but a size 30 in another. So try not to pay attention to the number and focus on fit. Always take at least two different sizes in the dressing room to try.

The Sit-Jump Test
You might think it is silly, but I always tell people to jump up and down in the dressing room. Denim with stretch can sometimes have a mind of its own and can shift as you wear it. So sit in them and see if they are comfortable. Then, jump up and down and see if they stay in place.

Avoid the Dryer
Never put them in the dryer! Because you are looking for denim that has some elasticity in the fabric, you never want to put them in the dryer. Dryer heat will eat away at the elastic, causing the fabric to lose its elasticity or bounce. Line drying will protect the elastic. ■

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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 work with individuals and help them develop and evolve their own sense of style. Find her at abbywoodwear.com. For daily style finds and tips, you can find Abby instablogging as @abbywoodwear on Instagram and Facebook.