JEANIUS!

Betty Barclay

Cotton Traders

Whether they're for workwear, laid-back daytime casual or glammed up evening, blue denim jeans deserve a drum roll as one of the most versatile garments in history. Trends come and go but there is always a place for denim, be it a classic pair of Levi's or the latest high-street embroidered version. 

No matter how many fabulous clothes you have in your wardrobe, if you've got a great fitting pair of jeans, the chances are they're your favourite, go to item of clothing.  You probably wear them more than anything else and they represent the best value for money in your closet.  

Finding the right pair of jeans means a little bit of research. It's worth spending time and effort trying on different brands, styles and cuts to work out what suits you best. If you are going to be wearing them on a regular basis, invest in a pair (or pairs) that are going to give a you a good return for your money.

Here's my advice for jeans that flatter:

* Find the right style and cut to flatter your body.
* Find out which details and finishes are flattering for you (dark rinses are more slimming, vertical creases lengthen, turn-ups can shorten, pockets can add bulk, whiskering can widen, fading can highlight).
* Try styles in both smaller and bigger sizes to find the perfect fit.
* Take the shoes with you that you intend to wear with your jeans. Buy a couple of pairs of jeans in different lengths to cater for various heel heights/occasions.
*Use accessories and fashionable items to update your jeans. A fabulous, eye catching jacket can upscale the look of your jeans as can a glitzy top and high heels take them from casual to glamorous.

Matalan

Curvy?

Look for a bit of stretch with a bootcut, straight or flared leg. High waists will lengthen legs and flatten tummies.  Avoid loose, slouchy cuts. Dark washes are the most slimming.  Opt for clean lines and minimal detailing. Finding a pair that fit on the hips and bum sometimes means a gap on the waistline so find a tailor to nip it in for you. Take a look at Levis and Salsa ranges.

Petite?

Skinny jeans and ankle length styles will flatter petites. If you prefer a bootcut style then always wear with heels. Look out for vertical details (like a front crease) which will help to elongate the leg. A natural waistline is often the best. Check out petite ranges and brands that offer shorter leg lengths.

Tummy?

Opt for a higher waistband or one that sits slightly lower than your natural waistline. Avoid any waistband that sits at or digs in at your belly button. Bootcut styles will balance out proportions and a dark rinse will be most flattering. A skinny jean will emphasise a top heavy body.

Big Bottom?

A bootcut in a dark wash is best. Avoid small rear pockets and embellishments which will make the bottom look bigger and instead, choose larger, centred pockets.

Flat Bottom?

Look for details and embellishments on the rear pockets to give the illusion of more. Smaller, high pockets will also help make the bottom look bigger.  Avoid boyfriend styles and opt instead for a slim cut that hugs your backside.

Long Legs?

Long Tall Sally

If you've got long legs and a short body, a lower rise will balance out proportions. Avoid high waisted styles.  A top worn on the outside will also balance proportions. Look out for brands that cater for longer leg lengths. 
Try Long Tall Sally, M&S, J Brand.

So what's new for 2017?

• Vertical details such as creases & stripes                 
• Raw Hems                           
• Embroidery

Stripes from Topshop

Front Seam detail from Next

    Vertical details can elongate and slim the leg. Great for petites. 

Raw Hems from Very

  Raw edges and rips will interest those who like an edgier vibe to their denim

Dorothy Perkins

Embroidery will  appeal to those who want to add some femininity to their look. Embroidery can also be used to add bulk to those areas where you want to create a bit more oomph, details on rear pockets will boost a flat bottom.

All photos courtesy of www.prshots.com