NebucadnetsarA pair of jeans is always a wardrobe staple. Denim is universally flattering, durable, and endlessly versatile. And while it can be hard to find the perfect fit on the racks, a good pair of jeans can last you for years with just some care and routine maintenance. So if you invest in a quality pair (or two!), it’s wise to ensure that they have the right features for your shape and body type.
There’s a reason why they’re called ‘high waist.’ The high waistline is right around the hip bone, providing a smoother appearance that makes you look slimmer. And while they can be ideal for skinnier figures, they’re also well suited for those with an hourglass figure.
Here are some of the things to check out when you get ready to make your purchase:
Waistband style: A higher waist gives you more room in the seat and thigh without making you bulge out in front. Straight or slightly loose-fitting jeans are usually best for this body shape. Thicker fabrics like chinos also work nicely, making your legs look longer than usual above the ankle.
Fit: A loose fit will make you look bigger and shorter, while a tighter fit will make you look smaller. Either way, a straight fit with slight tapering at the ankle is ideal.
Stitching detail: A well-done patch at the top of the waistband is one of the easiest ways to differentiate high-waist jeans from lower cuts. If there’s only a single stitch, they’re probably low-waisted. If there are multiple stitches, they’re probably higher-waisted. Another detail to check out is the inner seam above the hip bone; if it’s finished off, it’s higher waisted and more tapered than your typical straight-leg jean with snap closure.
Pockets: If you don’t need a ton of pockets, you can find higher-waisted options that still have pockets. And while most jeans these days have both fly and button closure pockets, some high-waisted styles go for flap or taper pockets. These usually only come in pairs of two-tone shades but work well for those who want to keep it simple.
