Women’s Jeans – Straight, Barrel, Wide Or Skinny. What’s Your Preference?

Jeans are a timeless addition and, once the right pair or pairs are found to suit, there’s no need to replace them for a long time. This is why it’s important to get the style, comfort, size and colour, right. So, it’s worth the time and effort to get the “chosen” pair.

Recently, I have ventured into the “love them or hate them” barrel style – or “wonky jeans” as I’ve seen them referred to, lately. 

I was a little unsure about this style until I noticed this advert from the fashion brand, Baukjen showing a pair of black barrel jeans styled with an animal print shirt and these lovely suade pumps. I noticed the jeans sat on the ankle which I thought looked flattering. And, I liked the subtle styling of the shirt – one I already have. Following this trickle of inspiration, I tried on lots of pairs, before settling on the Mid Rise Relaxed Horseshoe Jeans from the Marks and Spencer Collection. The size 10 fitted me – I’m usually a 12. 

I was pleased that they had a leg length option. I am 5ft 6in and, as you can see, the short version sits perfectly on my ankle. They felt right as soon as I tried them on – and they fit like a glove. They have a tiny amount of stretch for comfort – and they have that subtle curve which I was looking for.   Oh, and large pockets, which is one of my criteria.  At £39.50, they were a lot more reasonably priced than the Baukjen jeans at £129.00.

I like to experiment with leg length depending on the style of jeans. And, I felt the horseshoe style would look better sitting on the ankle.  Regarding footwear, I know the chic ballet flats look great,  but I find flat shoes uncomfortable to wear, preferring a wedge or small heel.
Since my purchase, I have enjoyed wearing them. They elevate my outfits without that overdressed look.  So far, I have been styling them with shirts and fitted tops which are flattering to the oversized leg style. But, I think they will look just as good with oversized jumpers, blazers and coats when the winter hits. The key to looking and feeling confident in whatever style of jeans you are wearing is, the fit and  comfort. This is why taking your time avoids costly mistakes. As far as this style goes, I really like them because they are different and I feel good wearing them – my other half, P, is not so sure. He thinks they are a trend/fad that will wane – we don’t always have to agree. Ha ha.

Wide Leg Jeans

As a slim or straight-leg jean girl, I wondered if the wider silhouette would take me out of my comfort zone.   I preferred this look on others – the wide or palazzo-style jeans paired with a simple top or a chic little jacket, all of which seemed effortless.   But, curiosity got the better of me.  That was a few years ago, and, since then, I have broken through the barrier of being afraid to experiment and acquired a few pairs of wide-leg jeans, which I now wear on rotation.

Maybe my style is still evolving.  I never want to be afraid to try new styles.  I found that the key to success in the choosing stage was looking for a pair with a high waist.  I find this to be flattering as it draws the eye to the narrowest point of my torso, especially when cinched in with a leather belt. 

I prefer a subtle wideness in the leg which starts just above the knee. Plus, with this style, I like a full-length jean so I can wear a boot or shoe with a wedge, elongating my legs. I find it evens the shape of these jeans out when putting together an outfit.

Straight Leg Jeans

Finding the perfect pair of jeans (Hints & Tips): 

• Comfort and fit are key – the days are gone when we wear uncomfortable clothing or footwear, resulting in a complete waste of money.

• If you know the style you’re after, try on multiple sizes as they will differ from brand to brand.

• Go for a good quality denim that has a little bit of give in the material. I tend to size up if I am trying on jeans that are 100 per cent cotton, and down if I’m trying jeans with elastane included.

• Get the colour/shade right – one which will be versatile with both footwear and items in your wardrobe

• I like a large pocket which sits, nicely, on my bottom (I have a small, flat bum). I find this to be uplifting and flattering. Small pockets make our bottom look bigger, and the opposite for large pockets.

• Don’t be frightened to try new styles – something new and on-trend can make you feel updated. The barrel style has done this for me…Plus, a new style can be unexpectedly flattering to your body type.

• I find the straight, ankle-length, mid-blue wash never goes out of fashion and are my most versatile jeans. I own a fair few of these. But, we’ll keep that quiet!  And, I wear them a lot!

• I prefer skinny jeans which are slightly looser around the ankle – otherwise, they are tucked into boots.

• I have invested in a few basic belts – some jean styles suit one.

• We are all different shapes and sizes – go for styles to flatter the parts of your body you want to accentuate – then, whenever you find your “chosen pair”, they’ll make you feel good.

• Wash your jeans inside out, on a low temperature as infrequently as possible, to make them last.

And, Lastly – De-bobbler

There’s not much to say about this handy gadget apart from it is going to save me so much money improving my favourite jumpers, coats and jackets. I wore one of my favourite cashmere jumpers, last week, and it looked shabby. This miracle worker has restored it to its former glory, removing the offending bobbly bits. I definitely recommend it.

And that’s it for today.  I hope you have enjoyed my post which may contain some affiliate links. If you click through to the product, there is no cost to you. The small commission I may earn helps me with the costs of running my blog. 

See you next time!!!