DOCTOR DENIM
HAVE THE BLUE-JEAN BLUES? NEVER FEAR. YOU’VE RAISED YOUR BIGGEST DENIM CONCERNS AND WE’RE HERE TO SOLVE THEM. YOUR BUTT CAN THANK US LATER
Q.I’m looking for those perfect vintage-style “mom” jeans but I hate vintage shopping. What do you recommend?
A.Ahh, the elusive perfect-fit vintage jeans. They do exist, but boy are they hard to find. Luckily, many brands are now re-creating the original look of “mom” jeans to make the search easier. Sportsgirl has released a very-nearly-vintage pair in true deep blue. Or look to the OG: Levi’s. The 501s are still as classic as ever, or you can slightly update the look by opting for a cropped pair with eyelet detailing. What both styles have in common is a fit that’s tight at the waist, straight on the legs and tapered from the knee down. Jane Birkin would approve.
Q:Are skinny jeans really over? I have a huge collection from their heyday.
A.If there’s one thing we’ve learnt, it’s never to get rid of a pair of jeans. Firstly, if skinny jeans make you feel great, they’re perfect for you. Secondly, think of them as a layering piece. Like leggings or tights, they can be worn under dresses and tunics with ease. And they’re essential for the return of the over-the-knee and cowboy boot trends, so you’ll see them creeping back into the denim foreground.
Q.Where exactly should the hem sit?
A.We’re not being dramatic when we say hem lengths can change the entire look of an outfit. But it all comes down to the shoes. For a simple ankle boot or sneaker, the hem should sit just below the ankle without any cuffing or cutting (see Exhibit A). If your boots sit above your ankle or you want to show off a new buy, cuffing jeans à la Exhibit B is the best option. And for ankle-baring shoes like mules, try the new style of hem: slicing your jeans up the seam. It adds polish and allows for ample movement without the commitment of cutting your entire hem off. If Exhibit C doesn’t convince you, we’re not sure what will.