One of the most important staples in anyone’s wardrobe is a great collection of jeans. There is nothing more synonymous with American Fashion than denim. Also one of the more difficult items to shop for in a woman’s wardrobe, many of us spend hundreds if not thousands on what we think are the perfect jeans in a lifetime. Many times we find they stretch out, aren’t comfortable, or just don’t fit the same after going in the wash.
I went through a phase in my 20’s and early 30’s where I was into designer denim, and wouldn’t be caught dead in a pair of jeans for which I paid less than $100. Many of you probably remember the early 2000’s when you weren’t cool if you weren’t wearing jeans from Seven, Hudson, Citizens of Humanity, True Religion, or J Brand. Going even further back to the late 80’s and early 90’s when I was in elementary and middle school, we all had to have Guess Jeans with that silly question mark triangle on the rear. Before I date myself anymore with this trip down denim brand memory lane, I will move on.
My go to style of denim for the last 10 years has pretty much been skinny. I do have one or two pairs of flared leg jeans and baggy boyfriends in my closet, that I wear on a rare occasion. However, for the most part, my jean style seems to gravitate to the skinnies. I am also pretty picky when it comes to fit. Jeans are not good when they get baggy behind the knees, or fall down at the waist after I have worn them all day. I also prefer a mid-rise, especially since having a baby. Plus my curvy body, athletic legs, and a rear that is well… slightly larger than the proportions of the rest of my body can’t wear every denim brand and style well.
My denim collection is comprised of all washes and colors. Recently, I have been wearing more colored jeans. They are a bit unexpected in the sea of blue denim. I am also not afraid to wear my white and light colored denim in the winter. When paired with the right winter pieces, light jeans can be really chic and seasonally appropriate at all times of the year.
In this post, I have rounded up my 3 favorite denim lines. I own more pairs of jeans than I care to reveal, but I can say with certainty that 90% of the jeans I own and love are one of these 3 brands. All 3 brands are under $75 and in fact 2 of them are under $50. I no longer see the need to own designer jeans. I would rather put the money into my accessories like bags, belts, and jewelry to elevate my look. If you are not familiar with these three lines, and prefer your jeans to look it fit the way I do, I highly recommend giving them a try.
Just Black Denim:
I discovered Just Black Jeans by Just USA last spring while I was still getting back to my pre-baby weight. I instantly fell in love from the moment I first tried them in the fitting room of my local boutique. The jeans fit like a glove, and have the perfect rise to hold in that post-baby belly. This is premium quality denim at a great price, usually around $55-75. These awesome jeans run true to size, and hold their shape after several wears. Just Black Jeans can be found in many small boutiques around the country. I buy them at two local stores in my area, Common in Atwater Village, CA and Veruca Salt in Montrose, CA. They can also be found online though Shoptiques, and I have linked several available styles below.
Sweater | Jeans
Other Just Black jeans available in stores now:
Uniqlo Skinny Fit Ultra Stretch:
These were my ultimate favorite jeans before having a baby. I have gradually been fitting back into the pairs I wore before I was pregnant, and that feels oh so good! Priced under $40, I am also amazed at the quality of this denim for the price. These jeans have great stretch, but hold their shape nicely. Uniqlo makes them in several colors, styles, and washes each season. I have had some of mine for several years, and they are still look great! This particular line of jeans from Uniqlo runs a little large. I am typically a 29 in jeans, but these I usually wear a 27 or 28. Sizing is not always consistent from one pair to the next, so you might want to order a couple of sizes to start. Also, the rise is usually mid-low, which is why it took me a minute to get back into these after having a baby.
Similar Blouse | Jeans
Other Uniqlo Ultra Stretch Jeans available in stores now:
Old Navy Rockstar Skinny:
The third denim line in my round up is from Old Navy. The Rockstar Skinnies have been my absolute favorites this season. I love these, not only for the price, but also because I find the fit to be extremely consistent. The jeans run true to size, and I always know that if I order an 8 petite online, it will fit. The Rockstars come in tons of colors and washes, along with lots of different distressed styles, which I am really into at the moment. One reason the fit works so well for me is because they come in petite sizes. I prefer my jeans to hit at the ankle because this is the most flattering for giving the illusion of long legs. I also often wear boots, so this prevents a lot of bunching at the ankle under them.
The only downside is that they do stretch and do not hold their shape as well as the other two lines I mentioned above. I find that the jeans look great for one wearing, but then need to be washed to get their snug fit back. It is for this reason that I tend to buy more trendy colors and styles from this line. I save the basics that I wear for several years to the Just Black or Uniqlo lines isntead. However, for the price, (it is very common to get these jeans for under $25 during Old Navy’s promotions), they are well worth it for more fashion forward jeans that don’t get as much wear.
Top | Jeans
Other Old Navy Rockstar Jeans available in stores now:
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