the ultimate jeans buying guide

Everyone wears denim. This is the one item that everyone buys multiple pairs of the same thing. The process of buying jeans can be really daunting: let's talk strategy, so you can buy confidently the next time you are in the market for denim.

It can be really overwhelming to be looking for jeans in a store. They are all stacked neatly yet precariously, such that you don't want to disrupt the folding (or maybe that's just me). Every pair has a different name, none of which describe its shape. So, in an effort to assist your next shopping experience, here's a guide to the five most common fits for women's

jeans as well as some tips on which fit is best for you, your life and your body.

S k i n n y f i t

The Fit:

Some women may think that "skinny fit" means it's only for those women who would describe themselves as skinny. That's not true at all. It's actually called "skinny" because it's intended to make women feel slim.

This fit is ideal for almost anyone because it will not add extra bulk. Skinny will show off the curves in your figure.

Tips for Shopping and Wearing:

Look for stretch, so that the shape of the jeans conforms to your body.

Skinny fit jeans and jeggings are too very different things: the thickness of the denim fabric in skinny jeans is intended to create a smooth line, unlike jeggings which will show everything, including panty lines and unfavorable areas.

This is the only fit that you should tuck into your calf-length or knee-high boots. Any other fit will create a "knickerbocker" look with baggy knees.

S t r a i g h t f i t

The Fit:

This pair of jeans will fit close to the body but will follow a straight line below the knees. The jeans will create a slim line without being clingy. This is a great fit for women who don't want any extra bulk but don't feel comfortable in the skinny fit. This is also ideal for women who hold weight in their thighs. The straight fit will sit comfortably on your thighs and create a nice, slim line.

Tips for Shopping and Wearing:

Look for stretch in this fit, too, so that the material works with you throughout the day instead of fighting against you in the rear and knee area because, obviously, jeans should fit comfortably.

This fit of jeans is perfect to roll up the bottom hem into a cuff to show off your shoes. I do this often with my jeans so that my shoes get some attention.

b o o t c u t

The Fit:

Boot cut jeans are functional if you want the jeans to pull away from the body at the bottom. This fit is perfect for you if you want to create an hourglass shape to your body. Women who don't like the shape or size of their butt will find that these jeans are symmetrical, taking the focus away from the rear (or butt) and midsection.

Tips for Shopping and Wearing:

This is ideal if you want to wear ankle or calf length boots under (repeat: under) your jeans. If you are shopping for jeans to fit over your knee high boots, bring your boots with you to try them on. Many jeans are tighter in the knee and leg area than knee-high boots; trying to force the jeans over the boots is not a flattering and seamless look.

Bootcut jeans are ideal for women who want to mask their tummy or hips. The style draws the eye down to the hemline. Look for a thick denim with a high rise. You'll feel great in this cut!

f l a r e d c u t

The Fit:

I've heard women steer clear of flared jeans, fearing they will look "fat" or "heavy" in them. This couldn't be further from the truth. Flared jeans, or trousers, are an excellent example of symmetry.

The wide hemlines at the bottom of the legs will take the focus away from the rear (or butt). This fit is ideal for women who don't want their midsection or their butt to get a lot of attention.

Tips for Shopping and Wearing:

Flared jeans are a great option for a more casual work environment. In a dark wash, they look more like pants or trousers than jeans. And jeans go with everything, so just think of how many work outfits you'd have with the same pair of jeans!

Want to look taller? With bootcut or flared jeans, you can buy them a little longer (or look for "tall" fit) and wear them with heels. You'll look 2, 3 or 4 inches taller to the human eye. Just imagine how long and lean your legs will look!

B o y f r i e n d f i t

The Fit:

The boyfriend fit is a new iteration of jeans, in which women can look as casual and comfy as possible. This fit is loosest and, in some styles, hangs off the body. Despite its lack of defined shape, it is a very fashion forward fit: women are wearing it with stilettos or sandals or sneakers. Anything goes!

Boyfriend fit jeans look amazing on pear-shaped women or those women with muscular thighs.

o t h e r t i p s f o r y o u r j e a n s b u y i n g n e e d s

• Dark washes are always more slimming.

• A high rise will lengthen your legs. A low rise will lengthen your torso.

• When it comes to sizes, every store or designer is different. Most stores should have a size guide available to you to help you pinpoint what size to start with.

• Look for a pair that fits you best in the area you are self-conscious about (for me, it's my butt; for you, it may be the waist or the thighs).

• If it doesn't fit perfectly, but you love it - first, check that there aren't other styles or sizes better for you - then, bee line to your tailor. He or she can tuck in the waist, crop the hem line, or shorten the crouch. A well-fitting pair of jeans is worth it.

• Take note of your favorite sizes, cuts and styles. If you know what works for you, the next time you are in the market for pants, tell the salesperson. They will direct to the perfect next pair of pants for you!