Do your jeans fit you like a glove? We ask you this because many misguided souls think that fitting into the right size of denims is all it takes to look good. Well, let us assure you that this is not so. Jeans, especially if you are wearing them as formal wear, HAVE to be a perfect fit. So, the next time you go shopping for a pair, check if it fits the following dos and don'ts bill:
Common for all
* First, go to a store that gives you good service. A sales person, who doesn't understand what'll look good on you or turns a deaf ear to your preferences, will never help you find jeans that have been made just for you. Try different stores and brands.
* Ask for a couple of denims in your size and only then head to the changing room. Even if you like the first pair, don't settle on it till you've tried the others. You never know which cut will flatter you.
* Choose jeans that suit your body type. Reveals actor Sameera Reddy, "I don't like skinny fits or body hugging wear. My favourites are the ones that fit right on the waist with the back pockets appropriately placed."
* Length is one of the crucial criteria for a perfect fit. Your jeans should touch the bottom of your shoe. "But avoid wearing ones that come under your heels or need to be folded too much. Jeans that come under your heels start tearing up and look very messy at work," opines fashion designer Aarti Nichlani of Taxxi & Vitamin K.
* The next 'must check' is your crotch area. Jeans that wrinkle up at the crotch are just not meant for you.
* Colour is important. "For a slimmer look, dark blue should be the choice of colour. Moreover, curvaceous girls should stay away from white wash on thighs, as it makes them look fat and the denims aged," stresses Sameera.
Body specific
* Curvy: It is best to avoid very slim jeans with a low waist. "Straight or regular fit with a mid-waist will be more flattering. Even though skinny jeans are the order of the day, don't forget that they are called 'skinny' for a reason. If you still want the look of the slim leg but are slightly heavier, then settle for a straight leg," suggests Nick Smith, head merchandising, Calvin Klein Jeans.
* Tall and slim: You don't have to worry at all. Almost every fit goes well on you. Your one mistake could be not experimenting enough. "Try low-waist, roll ups, cropped ankles, belt-tied, or baggy jeans all look fabulous on this body type," gushes Aarti.
* Big butt: No low-rise jeans for you. Wear long tops, at least ones that cover half of your bottom. Girls with big bottoms should also avoid wearing jeans with any sort of bling on the back pockets. Equally spaced and right-size pockets are also important. But don't ever make the mistake of buying high-waist jeans they are out.
* Generous tummy: No one wants to see your love handles. "And, low-waist, skin-tight jeans can make you look pregnant. Opt for denims that are little higher at the waist so that they hold your tummy and thus give your body a flattering shape," reminds Aarti. Stretch jeans might be the ideal fit for you.
* Large thighs: Skinny jeans might work for you, as it gives you an overall slimming effect. Wear long tops which will cover half of your thighs and wear heels. Boot cut is fashionable, but if you have heavy thighs and the jeans are as wide as the bottom, there are chances you may end up looking like a tree trunk.
* Short legs: Roll ups that end just below your knees are the right fit for you. However, wear a longish top, as roll ups with a short top means disaster for you. Try cigarette jeans, since the cut gives you the illusion of height !
No blues for your jeans
For those who literally live in their jeans, it is crucial to know how to maintain them. So here's some gyaan to keep them looking as good as new:
* Wash them inside out in cold water. To retain the colour of a dark pair, submerge it in cold salt water for 10 minutes and then rinse it out. "Use a non bleach detergent if you want them to keep their colour," advises Nick
* Wash dark denims separately as when damp, they transfer colour to lighter coloured fabrics
* Lighter coloured denims should also be washed inside out to prevent unsightly lines appearing on the jeans and should be washed in cool water too
* Avoid washing jeans in the washing machine as they lose their sturdy quality and become loose
* Finally, wash them only if it's necessary and not after every other wear
No Tripping
Style statement: I don't necessarily follow trends. And, I don't really dress up according to occasions. I usually wear what suits me
Denim Lover: I love wearing a good pair of jeans. And the best thing is that the more you wear it, the comfier it gets. A pair of jeans that fits you well is perfect to wear to work or play!
The Right Ensemble: Just basic tees or 'ganjis' look best with jeans. With a well-fitted shirt and a classy belt you can go from casual to formal. Accessorise with a good strong watch. Crystal charms are important to me, thin pretty bracelets, pumps that are close toed or open sandals with crystals on it, earrings and sunglasses, I believe all these complement jeans well
