We’ve all got our favourite jeans. They are such an easy choice, just the right thing to reach for in the closet. But somehow, we’ve discovered that not all jeans are alike—at least not at our age. The fact is, there are so many different cuts of jeans out there, we sometimes need a handy guide. For the same reason we can’t hit the cheap and cheerful trendy stores at the mall for short shorts or crop tops without knowing how to wear them, we need to consider the type of jeans we are wearing by focusing on two things: fabric and fit. Or so says jean expert Jason Trotzuk of Fidelity.

THE BEST JEANS FOR WOMEN AND HOW TO WEAR THEM

DENIM TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND 

Quality. While all jeans should theoretically begin with denim, premium brands are set apart by the manufacturing process, from spinning the yarn itself all the way to treating the finished garment. A pair of Fidelity jeans, for example, has been worked on by more than 20 pairs of hands by the time they hit the boutique floor.

Fit. In terms of fit for our 40-year-old shape, we are always mindful of the muffin top. Styles with a mid-rise sit just high enough to feel right. And watch that backside, too! High-waisted jeans can create the dreaded mom-butt if you’re not careful. But it works well if it’s balanced with a wider bottom, the kind you’ll find in flare jeans.

Wash. Lighter washes and prints draw attention to that body area and denim whiskers draw attention to your thighs. If you want to create the illusion of a slimmer figure, opt for a super dark wash.

Attitude. No matter what kind of jeans you choose, confidence is key. Jeans were worn by women as a sign of rebellion in the earlier days and that doesn’t have to change. A little edge with our comfort goes a long way.

Next page: 3 JEANS STYLES FOR WOMEN OVER 40

About the author

Colleen Carlisle

Years in the garment industry left Colleen Carlisle with a nasty habit of trend-watching and forecasting. Always obsessed with finding the perfect fit and the most flattering colours, Colleen is in the personal shopping and styling business as a Director with trend-setting accessories company, Stella & Dot.

Colleen is a passionate entrepreneur, an enthusiastic volunteer and a style-savvy dynamo who can't bear to keep her mouth shut no matter the consequences. She is happily married to Mr. Good Times and with their two hilarious children plus a dog called Bones they split their time between her hometown of King City, Ontario, and family homes in Muskoka and on Siesta Key in Florida.

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