HOW TO STYLE YOUR DENIMS

Get your denim look straight from the runways to your closet, and find the perfect fit.

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Did you know that denim is the name of the fabric used to make jeans? The fabric is made up of 100% cotton twill. Jeans is the name given to a specific style of pants made from denim. So instead of saying denim pants, the correct word is just jeans, or denims. Today we have some tips to help you style this beloved wardrobe staple!



WHAT SHAPE ARE YOU?

Ruler: Boyish, with the shoulders and hips about the same width
Best jeans: You’re lucky to be able to wear just about any style of jeans, but to create curves it’s the finishing details that matter. Back flap pockets create a rounder behind, and fading along the thighs as well as a low-rise flared leg will make you look curvier.

Inverted triangle: Shoulders are broader than the hips
Best jeans: Widen the lower half of your body to match your shoulders. Opt for a bootcut with front pockets to widen your hips and balance your frame. Boyfriend or girlfriend styles are also great as they fit more loosely at the bottom, creating balance.

Pear-shaped: Narrow shoulders and broad hips
Best jeans: Dark-wash jeans will have a slimming effect, and a bold-coloured top will draw attention upwards. Straight-cut or skinny stretch denims in a dark colour also create a slimming silhouette. A contoured waistband will avoid gaping at the back.

Hourglass: Tiny waist with curvy hips and bust
Best jeans: Look for a high to mid-rise waist that has room for the hips, and a contoured waistband. Straight-cut jeans will create the impression of height if you’re on the short side, while a slight flare will give balance to the width of the hips. Avoid fading around the hips or pocket detail.

Apple- shaped: Small bust, with a round tummy and narrow hips
Best jeans: Apple-shaped bodies usually go with skinny legs, so balance your proportions by going for a mid-rise waist. A high-rise waist could dig in and accentuate your figure in the wrong places, while a low-rise waist could cause a muffin top.

THE TOP DENIM RUNWAY TRENDS FOR 2020
The Spring/Summer 2020 runways showcased some interesting denim trends, with homage being paid from the 70s all the way through to the 90s. Choose the style you’ll be rocking this year, if not all of them!



1. Bootcut/Flares
Feel that 70s feeling in wide-leg flares. Pair them with chunky sneakers or heeled boots for a modern approach.



2. Distressed
Choose your level of distress, from peek-a-boo rips to the heavily distressed. Wear with fishnet or coloured stockings to bring in your own flavour flair.

3. High-waisted
A classic, simple trend that’s a fast favourite. Style with a tucked- in blouse and accessorise with a bold belt and bling. Expose your ankles in barely-there heels.

4. Patchwork
Reminiscent of the ‘90s, when we’d patch anything denim! Why not recycle your old jeans into a new skirt?



5. Vintage
These jeans basically look old, like hand-me-downs. Signature details are the wash and the front seam. Belt and tuck to show off more of the wear.

6. Embroidery
Think ladylike vintage or moms’ old curtains, recycled. Either way, they’re innovative and trendy. You could even patch your denims with embroidery to fix up those holes.



7. Denim on denim
No longer a fashion faux pas, denim on denim is very cool indeed!

TIPS FOR WEARING JEANS TO WORK AND STILL LOOKING PROFESSIONAL

• The darker the wash the better – no rips, tears or embellishment.
• Heels look smarter than sneakers. Or choose a brogue, moccasin or pump.
• Tuck in your blouse or shirt for a polished finish.
• Pair with a blazer for a sleek silhouette.
• Accessorise accordingly, with minimal but bold pieces.
• Keep it streamlined with classic fits like straight, skinny or a slight flare.

CARING FOR YOUR DENIMS

• Read the label and follow the wash/care instructions.
• Jeans look newer for longer when you turn them inside out before washing, as this reduces the friction that causes fading.
• Wash once before you wear them so the excess dye can run off.
• Do not tumble dry. It stretches the elastic and the jeans won’t contract back to their normal shape. Rather air dry.