Jeans & Tops To Wear With Them
No other item of clothing is quite as ubiquitous as a pair of jeans. We all own them, we all wear them, and yet…
Jeans are undoubtedly the most difficult item of clothing to shop for. No matter what your size or budget is, unless you try on a handful of different options, you’ll never really find the perfect pair. As much as I’m all about the “pick and stick” rule — when you find a good brand in a great fit, buy multiple variations to have on hand (leg length, colour shade, etc), it’s easier said than done when we’re entering into a tricky trend era with oversized shapes ruling the virtual shelves.
What I do know about denim this season? You do you. Pick the style that you feel most comfortable in, not what you’re seeing on Instagram, and wear with confidence. Perhaps it’s a byproduct of my age, but choosing on-trend denim over styles that I know suit me better is just not going to happen this year.
Here are my denim (and the tops to wear with them) tips this season:
When buying denim online, always get a couple of size options. Sizing up or down can make all the difference in fit and the way a pair of jeans look, and also allows for shrinkage and stretching — both of which happen to most jeans depending on your washing style!
There’s a lot of denim on offer at the moment, so I would definitely start looking, trying and buying now for the cooler months ahead. Shopbop, H&M, Net-a-Porter and The Iconic are great online retailers who offer a big selection of different price points.
Hems matter. I’m petite, so denim that hits at the ankle is much more flattering on me than bootcut or longer lengths. Don’t be afraid to get hems tailored if you need alterations — in most cases a good tailor keeps the original bottom and sews it back when they’ve adjusted the length.
Tucked-in T-shirts, tanks and singlets will always look classic with a pair of jeans. To modernise the look, add a belt and a slouchy blazer.
Blouses and oversized shirts are also a failsafe denim match. Puff or blouson sleeves add a romantic touch.
For knitwear with a difference, try a cardigan buttoned up as a jumper.
Man-style vests are a great alternative to a “dressy top” for evenings, particularly when worn with a high heel or boots.
Don’t stop at blue. Milky denim and black are also super handy colours to have in your wardrobe this season.
