We all know that looking for the perfect pair of jeans is a daunting task that can take hours on end, often resulting in leaving the mall with an ill-fitting pair that will more than likely end up at the back of your closet.
A timeless style staple, jeans are the most versatile item of clothing in our closets and can be dressed up or down. But with all the different styles and cuts on offer, finding the right pair of jeans can be confusing and frustrating. The good news is that the same principle when buying other clothing should be applied to your search for the right pair of jeans – and that’s knowing your body shape.
Which body shape are you?
Boyish: Your chest, hip and waist measurements are relatively the same from top to bottom.
Pear: You have full, rounded hips and bottom with narrow shoulders and a small bust. You tend to gain weight in your bottom, hips and thighs and are prone to saddle bags while your stomach remains relatively flat and your waist small.
Hourglass: You have a balance of curves and angles: straight shoulders, defined waist and curvy bottom. Your bust and hips are of roughly the same proportion. You have shapely legs and are usually fine boned. You tend to gain weight in your stomach and thighs.
Apple:You have broader shoulders and bust with narrower hips. You tend to gain weight in the stomach, chest and face.
Petite:Your body type is smaller and often naturally toned. You have broad shoulders and short legs.
Now that you know what your body shape is, read the following style options to determine your perfect jeans style.
Skinny and Straight-leg jeans
Lucky Brand Sofia Straight (R999.95)
• These styles look best on long-legged boyish or petite figures.
• Apple shapes should avoid skinny jeans as they accentuate the top half of the body. Due to their clingy nature, they can also accentuate big hips and a big butt.
• If skinny jeans make you look extremely thin, some careful camouflaging with shaded denim does wonders.
• Straight legs are ideal for elongating short legs.
Flared and Wide-leg jeans
Lucky Brand Charlotte Kick Flare (R1499.95)
• Flares are ideal for balancing out hips and thighs for a streamlined look.
• They look great with fitted tops and skinny sweaters that can be tucked onto the waist. Chunky platforms balance out the flare. If its comfort you are after, flared jeans tend to make you look slimmer and gives you a sexier silhouette than slouchy boyfriend jeans.
• Wide leg jeans are ideal for tall and curvy types; this cut merges casual and trendy.
• Wide-legs are popular for their comfort and versatility. They are kind to pear shaped women as they balance out large hips and thighs. High-waisted, wide-leg styles can make you appear taller, slimmer and leaner.
Bootcut jeans
Lucky Brand Sofia Boot (R1119.95)
• The bootcut is the most universally, flattering style – suitable for all body shapes!
• The wider hem deflects attention away from ample waists, hips and thighs. They also disguise large calves and make legs look leaner.
• This classic style is best for the fuller figure, particularly if it has clean lines with minimal detailing and embellishments, which add unnecessary bulk.
• Worn with high-heeled boots to create extra height, these jeans have a very slimming effect.
Boyfriend jeans
Lucky Brand Boyfriend jeans (R999)Boyfriend jeans are baggy, worn and distressed. The style is usually rolled up at the hem and worn with heels for a feminine touch.
• Boyfriend jeans are ideal for looking effortlessly sexy, as the relaxed cut works on all shapes.
• The loose leg, slouchy waist and large pockets are flattering on bigger sizes, especially larger butts.
• Tone down the masculine effect with a feminine, fitted top or add a blazer.
FAQs
Avoid loose-fitting jeans. These types are usually labeled as relaxed, boyfriend, or wide-leg styles. Loose-fitting jeans may make your stomach look bigger than it actually is and won't show off your wonderful silhouette.
Do jeans make you look bigger? ›
If your jeans are too small, they will create unsightly bulges that add visual weight. Most women actually tend to wear their jeans too big. If you go into any department store and work with a seasoned sales associate, they will almost always encourage you to size down in your denim.
Do light colored jeans make you look fat? ›
No, they will not make you look bigger on the bottom!
Jeans in a light wash are still denim and therefore are more forgiving because of the heft in the fabric. Also, the light wash can visually help balance your upper and lower body in a proportional way.
Do flare jeans make you look fat? ›
If its comfort you are after, flared jeans tend to make you look slimmer and gives you a sexier silhouette than slouchy boyfriend jeans. Wide leg jeans are ideal for tall and curvy types; this cut merges casual and trendy.
How do I stop my stomach from bulging in jeans? ›
Loose fitting pants will help minimize the appearance of bulges around your waist area so try them on. You should be able to fit two fingers between the top of your pants and your actual waistline. If there's too much space between them, it will make your stomach look bigger than it really is.
How to not look fat in jeans? ›
In terms of hiding belly fat, high-waisted jeans could become your new best friend. Simply put, high-rise jeans help you hide belly fat by covering and smoothing the area. Wide Leg: In response to the skinny jeans phenomenon, wide-leg styles have become more popular as a way to offer something different.
How to look skinnier in jeans? ›
One of the most powerful ways to look slimmer is to wear dark-wash jeans. Light-wash jeans are great! But dark wash jeans will be more elongating and slimming. Also try to avoid jeans with whiskering, fading, etc.
What style jeans are best for big belly? ›
General Tips: Wearing jeans when you have belly fat is all about finding the right fit and style for your body. Avoid low-rise jeans, which can lead to a muffin top, and instead, opt for mid or high-rise jeans that sit comfortably on your natural waist. Look for jeans with stretchy fabric for maximum comfort.
What jeans don't make you look fat? ›
If in doubt about what pair of jeans might be most flattering for you, high rise is most likely the way to go. High-rise jeans can elongate the legs while also creating the illusion of a slimmer waist.
What color makes you look skinny? ›
Black never fails to make you look slim and elegant. Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion. On the other hand, lighter colors, like white and khaki, can add pounds and give the illusion of a larger frame.
Balance out your legs with flared pants.
Skinny jeans and other trousers with a tapered leg draw attention to your hips and upper leg, which can make your top look heavy. Instead, look for straight-leg, boot-cut, and other pant styles with a slight flare.
What is the most slimming jean shape? ›
Slim or straight-leg jeans offer a narrow waist, run-down tightly at the top of your leg, but finish slightly loose around your shins and ankles. They work well with most body types (pay due attention to colors and rise) and will be perfect to wear during a relaxed stroll or when you're out and about at the weekend.
Which jeans are more flattering? ›
High-rise jeans
With a waist that hits around 2″ above the navel, high-waist jeans offer a more defined shape at the waist. High-waisted jeans visually elongate the legs for everybody and look great with tucked-in shirts and shorter tops.
Do ripped jeans make you look fatter? ›
Ripped jeans are best for people with slim or skinny body types. If you have a curvy body type, ripped jeans can make you look wider than you are.
Why does my stomach bloat when I wear jeans? ›
tight pants/tights or clothing: If your clothes are too tight they can constrict your tummy, which makes it harder for food and gas to pass through. This may cause bloating and discomfort. large meals: Too much food at any one time, means more work for your gut, which may result in bloating.
How do you make your stomach look smaller in jeans? ›
Wide-leg jeans are designed with more room in the hips and therefore do not accentuate the tummy area as much. Combine a wide leg style with an extra high waist and, trust me, the results are truly confidence-boosting.
What jeans are flattering for big stomach? ›
High-waisted jeans are a great option as they provide coverage and support, accentuating the waist and creating a flattering silhouette. Look for 'Curvy Fit' styles. Straight-leg jeans offer a classic and timeless style that complements various body shapes, providing a balanced and streamlined appearance.
Why does my stomach stick out in jeans? ›
The Bottom Line
It may be the regular consumption of alcohol, stress, hormones, bad posture, recent pregnancy, or bloating. If you are determined to flatten your belly, you should exercise more and stick to a healthy diet.
