These days jeans are a staple in our life—both work life and casual. And I’m due for a denim update. There’s something magical about finding that perfect pair of jeans that makes you feel like you’ve unlocked a new level of style, and body, confidence. When I discovered barrel jeans, I was genuinely surprised by how universally flattering they could be across different body types—including my own! I still get compliments whenever I wear them and it’s pure fashion validation.
But I don’t want to wear barrel jeans every day. And, as my barrel jean collection has grown, I’ve noticed my other jeans are looking a bit tired—stretched out and faded from love, perfect for casual moments but lacking that “dressed-up denim” vibe I sometimes need. It’s time for a denim refresh, and I’m ready to invest in quality pieces that will elevate my wardrobe. Let’s embark on this non-barrel- jean journey together!
Fit — The Key to Finding Your Denim Soulmate
Finding the perfect jean fit is like finding a best friend—supportive, flattering, and makes you feel like your best self. Here’s what to prioritize:
Understand Your Proportions
When shopping for jeans, consider your unique body architecture. Are you longer in the torso or the leg? Do you carry your weight in your hips, thighs, or midsection? This awareness will guide you toward cuts that celebrate your natural shape.
For pear shapes, look for styles with a slight flare or straight leg to balance proportions. Apple shapes often shine in mid-rise straight cuts that skim the body. Hourglass figures can embrace classic slim or straight styles that highlight curves without constraining them. I’m not sure I fit into one of those classic body types, but as I explored in this post, I feel like flare and bootcut add balance to my outfits.
The Stretch Factor
The perfect amount of stretch can make or break your denim experience. Look for jeans with 1-2% elastane or spandex—enough for comfort and movement without sacrificing structure. Premium denim brands often incorporate just the right amount of stretch technology that recovers after wearing, preventing that dreaded saggy-knee syndrome.
Beware of jeans with too much stretch. They may be great at first, but after a few wears they can lose their shape. And, worse than that, I’ve occasionally noticed horizontal puckering where the stretch begins to give.
The Sit Test
Always, always sit down when trying on jeans! A pair might look spectacular when you’re standing, but the true test comes when you sit. Do they dig into your waist? Ride down in the back? Create uncomfortable pressure points (in delecate areas)? Your jeans should feel like a gentle hug, not a vise grip.
Rise Matters
While I gravitate toward mid-rise styles, understanding how different rises affect your silhouette is crucial. High-rise jeans can elongate legs and smooth the midsection, while low-rise options can create a more casual, relaxed look. The key is finding where on your body the waistband feels most comfortable and flattering.
Wash is Key
The wash of your jeans dramatically impacts their versatility and polish factor. Here’s how to choose wisely:
Dark Indigo: The Power Player A pair of dark indigo jeans is the workhorse of a versatile wardrobe. This rich, saturated wash can easily transition from casual Friday at the office to dinner out with friends. Look for minimal distressing and consistent color for maximum versatility. Some strategically placed fading will give them dimension and will prevent them from looking flat (and like trousers) and be more complementary to your figure.
The secret to maintaining that pristine dark wash? Turn them inside out before washing, use cold water, and skip the dryer. This preserves the color depth that makes dark denim so sophisticated.
A word of caution: Test the material to make sure the dark color will not transfer. If you have light furniture like I do, you will not want blue streaks on it. If it does transfer, you may need a cold water rinse before wearing them.
Medium Wash: The Everyday Hero A good medium wash balances casual ease with put-together polish. Look for subtle whiskering (those horizontal lines at the hip) that appears natural rather than manufactured. The best medium wash jeans have dimension—slightly lighter on stress points and deeper in other areas—creating a countouring effect for your hips and legs.
Avoid Trend Traps While heavily distressed jeans have their place, they tend to limit versatility and can quickly look dated. If you’re investing in quality pieces, the trend today is washes with subtle character rather than dramatic distressing that might feel tired next season.
What I Found On My Denim Update Quest
I do have some boutiques around Chicago that I know have great denim selections. And typically, I would make the rounds, purchase different pairs, try them on (again) at home and return the “rejects”. For this denim update, I was more pressed for time than I’d prefer, so I went to one destination. I chose Evereve, knowing they have a smaller, more curated, but great selection of denim brands. I was also confident it would be a good shopping experience. The salespeople know the inventory and will bring you other styles and sizes as you stand in the dressing room.
I found a great selection and have definitely expanded and updated my denim options.
Good American – I was excited to try this brand (founded by Khloe Kardashian) and really liked this dark wash pair.
AG – I’ve never tried this brand before and I really liked the lighter wash, with some fading on the thighs. Fit was very similar to the Good American pair.
Citizens of Humanity – Everyone seems to love this brand and I’m trying to like them. I liked these cuffed wide leg in the dressing room. And I’ve worn them a few times and they seem to bunch in the crotch (which can be uncomfortable). I will work them into the rotation (sparingly).
Kut From The Kloth – As with white button downs and t-shirts, white is perishable. Same goes for white jeans. I love my white jeans and it’s always good to have another pair to rely on. These are slightly off white, called “Ecru”, which will extend their use.
You may notice that 3 out of 4 pairs are flair/boot cut. I also noticed this, and I’m okay with it. On my body type, I feel like a flare at the ankle helps balance. And I like that the flare shows off your shoes in a different way.
What’s Missing in the Denim Update? Wide Leg
Wide leg jeans are all the rage, however, I have yet to find a pair that works for me. I did try on a few pairs, but I just feel like they look sloppy on me. And, I believe my hips are a bit wide, so they fall straight and don’t provide a flattering shape on me. I am still on the lookout for a great pair of wide leg and will let you know if I find them. But these below did not work.
Embrace Your Denim Journey
Trying on jeans can be as traumatic as trying on bathing suits. Trust me, I get it. And, as someone who was skeptical about barrel jeans before discovering their magic, I encourage you to approach your denim update with an open mind. Try styles that might not immediately seem “you”—sometimes the most unexpected pairs become favorites.
Your denim collection should evolve as you do, reflecting both practical needs and personal style evolution. The more styles, the more options for expressing yourself through style.
Happy shopping on your denim adventure! May you find pairs that make you feel as confident and delighted as those barrel jeans that started this journey. Your perfect denim update awaits!
WETSU! WETSU!
XO JT
