Above, I’ve styled jeans and an easy white blouse two ways: on the left for a casual Saturday farmers’ market run, and on the right for Sunday brunch with friends.
Thanks to Nordstrom for their sponsorship of this post. All ideas and opinions are my own.
- left: earrings | bracelet | tote | sandals.
- right: earrings | bag | bracelet | shoes
I may occasionally step out in other types of pants but I ultimately keep coming back home to my jeans. I know that some don’t get the attraction, but if there’s a clothing version of a “soulmate,” jeans would be mine.
Why? They’re versatile, and never feel fussy or overdone. They’re at home with a pair of heels or sneakers. There’s a wash or style that suits any mood. They’re iconic and modern at the same time. Jeans and a simple top can be a fabulous “blank slate” for using accessories to create a look.
Updated Denim
While denim is a fashion perennial, shapes, cuts and washes will shift over time. I don’t chase every trend, but as with the rest of my wardrobe, I want jeans that look modern and current. Sometimes it takes my eye a while to adjust; it was that way with both skinnies and boyfriend styles. This season I’m rotating between three different styles: slim leg, boyfriend and released hems.
Slim Leg
Sometimes referred to as “cigarette” or “stovepipe” legs, this style is not quite as form-fitting as a true skinny jean, nor as narrow or tapered at the ankle. I find this cut is often the most flattering and easy to style. They work particularly well with tunics or higher-volume tops. I prefer the length best just at the top of the ankle bone, but some may prefer longer or shorter. A few slim leg options:
Boyfriend
Some boyfriend styles are cropped and/or cuffed, some are ankle length. I prefer styles that are cut a little slimmer and have the option to cuff or not. Boyfriend jeans will generally have a more worn-in look, and may or may not be distressed. I love the look of pairing mildly distressed jeans with more refined pieces. Fuller styles will look more balanced with fitted tops, but you can also try a half-tuck with looser tops.
Raw Hem/Released Hem
This seems to be “the” denim trend of 2017. It’s a subtler way to incorporate some distressing, and there are options in just about every leg shape from slim to bootcut. As with distressed styles, I like to mix up with more refined pieces like heels and a softly structured jacket.
Nordstrom is my first stop when shopping for denim. They carry a wide range of brands and sizes. Their website allows you to search by brand, leg style, rise, wash and size, plus a few other criteria. They always include the inseam measurements which I find particularly helpful. Shipping and returns are always free.
What styles of denim do you wear most often?
