Jeans are the ultimate wardrobe staple, one that many of us rely on when getting dressed on the daily, be it for work, to run errands or to catch up with friends over drinks. But with so many styles and brands to choose from, finding the perfect pair for you isn’t always easy, especially when you throw shopping online into the mix. Thankfully, we are here to help you navigate the denim world and guide you to the best jeans for you and your style.
In our quest to make jeans shopping an easier endeavour for us all, we tapped the expert insight of Kelly Harrington, designer, fashion forecaster and self-confessed denim obsessive, for her tips and tricks on what to look for in a solid pair of jeans (including the brands, silhouettes and washes to invest in) as well as handy hacks for unearthing your ideal fit, even when you can’t make it to a changing room.
Whether you’re a lover of skinny jeans or prefer a more relaxed fit, we’ve got everything you need to know to find your jeans match. So let’s get started and find you some jeans that will become your new go-tos.
“My biggest tips for shopping jeans online is to have an idea about what type of fit and cut you are looking for, i.e. baggy, straight, flared or skinny, and what type of denim fabric you prefer—washed or raw, comfort with a little stretch or rigid, 100% cotton,” says Harrington. “The rise measurement (the distance between the crotch seam and the waistband) and waist measurement are the most important, as jeans lengths can be altered.” The measurements of the pair you’re considering should be listed in the sizing section of the product description. If they aren’t, reach out to the brand, as they should have them as a reference point. If in doubt, Harrington has another easy hack for honing your measurements: “Personally I find that measuring a favourite pair of trousers or jeans already existing In my wardrobe aids me to determine if a pair of jeans will fit when purchasing online.”
“I know it’s a thought, but be prepared to try on many pairs of jeans, in all different sizes—I always wear an outfit that’s easy to remove in the changing rooms,” says Harrington. “All denim brands’ size systems are different, so I prefer to ignore sizing and shop by eye or use a tape measure. The same goes for fit. A straight-leg style might not fit me quite right from one brand but fit perfect in another. It’s all about finding your forever jeans, and this can take time. Once I’ve found the perfect fit I often buy it in several washes.”
“Stick with what works for your body shape or frame, which might not be the most on-trend style. Timelessness, whatever that means to you, is key. I’d also advise investing in 100% cotton denim or, better still, organic cotton or recycled; the fabric will be stiffer at first, but the jeans will last longer. If you like a little comfort look for denim with 1% stretch elastane,” she adds.
“Eighty percent of my denim collection is made up of vintage denim, some from vintage shops, flea markets and charity shops,” says Harrington. “When I shop for vintage denim I tend to focus on denim quality and fit rather than brand, but I always shop from the men’s department, as I prefer a looser cut. Take a tape measure and make a note of your measurements in case you are unable to try on the jeans (this can be the case in charity shops, for example). Look for 100% organic cotton denim, as they last longer and can be repaired with patches and altered more easily.”
“I love that denim is a forever fabric that gets better with age, and it is the cornerstone of my wardrobe,” says Harrington. “For me, the best jeans are vintage men’s 501s from the ’90s. They are not particularly collectable or the most trend-led style, but they work for me. Pair with sneakers, sandals, boots or heels. They work for every occasion. I love them battered with holes, paint splashes and even repaired.” The perfect pair of jeans are the ones you reach for over and over again, and that will look different for everyone; the key to unlocking yours is to try on as many different silhouettes and fabric compositions to ensure you’re leaving no denim stone unturned.
“Straight-leg styles and baggy silhouettes, in my opinion, never date; they are easy to wear for any occasion,” says Harrington. “My go-to brands are, Levi’s, Peppino Denim, Gap, Citizens of Humanity, 7 for All Mankind and Ksenia Schnaider for days I feel experimental. I love pre-washed denim and also raw dark denim. However, raw denim [denim that hasn’t gone through any pre-washing or shrinking processes]can take time to wear in. A one-rinse denim wash is more practical for me, as it’s more comfortable and has a soft hand feel.”
Jeans are one of the most versatile items in terms of styling—you’re limited only by your preferences, but how does Harrington love to wear her jeans? “You’ll find me wearing triple denim, sometimes consisting of shoes, bags, jeans and a jacket. Denim for me has no rules; I mix washes, styles and eras. I do love a matching set or denim co-ord, though; a jacket and jeans in the same wash has become my uniform. I love a jeans-and-shirt combo, too—I gravitate towards this as my everyday style,” she says.
“There are so many theories about washing jeans. Denim doesn’t need to be washed often,” Harrington says. “In fact, washing as rarely as possible is advisable. The less you wash your jeans the better it is for your denim and the planet. Wash at a low temperature, inside out, and on a gentle cycle. I also recommend using a specialist denim washing detergent which preserves the indigo. Spot-clean stains and soils gently in a circular motion to avoid faded areas. Invest in a waterless wash spray to kill bacteria. Line-dry your denim and avoid the tumble dryer—using a tumble dryer weakens and damages the fabric.”
Next Up: 5 Autumn Trends That Will Make Your Favourite Jeans Looks Very Fresh
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
