“Curvy” figure

Though most jeans out there are skinnies, most women have curves!  If your curves are mainly in your hip area, then balance your figure by adding some flare at your pant leg with a boot cut jean.  This proportion will straighten your silhouette and minimize the width of your hips.

Also forgo the low rise and choose the mid or high variety to smooth out the tummy and avoid “muffin top.”

Back pockets are important, too- be sure the pockets aren’t too high, which could create the look of a larger back side then desired. And be sure to minimize the bling and bright stitching and say no to pocket flaps.

“Slim, straight or boyish figure”

If your figure is slim, or perhaps you want to add more curves, as many women with “boyish” type figures do, go for silhouettes that will accentuate your figure.  Skinny jeans that hug your hips and calves will create a curvy line.  Accented pockets will add shape to your derriere, and so will the narrow ankle width.   The wash of the denim is also important- when the jeans are faded in certain areas like the backside, the fading can contribute to a curvier look.

Skinny jeans can look sexy, but mystery is sexier.  Style your skinnies with a hip-skimming untucked top for a little coverage.  Straighter leg options can look great with or without your top tucked in.  And remember when styling your outfit, that third piece such as a jacket or cardigan will instantly amp up your look.

“Petite figure”

For the ladies who would prefer a little more height, create the illusion of a longer leg with a straight leg jean, or a skinny.  At the end of your hem, choose a pointed toe shoe to extend the length for as long as possible.   Beware the boot cut style which can visually shorten the leg, since there is not a lot of length between the hip and the flared hem.

However, if you need a boot cut to balance your hip (see “curvy figure” above) then go for a minimally flared version.  This subtle boot cut also works for the days when you want to wear boots and functionally need the width of the hem.  Keeping your jeans outside your boots (instead of doing the trendy jean tuck) will create a longer line to add height to your petite frame.

“Denim Wash”

For the most flattering and dressiest look, go for a dark wash.  This is also the best option for casual Friday if jeans are allowed.  (This is true for the guys, too.)

Subtle vertical fading down the center of the thigh can slim and elongate the leg, because the inner thigh and outer thigh will appear darker.  However, beware extreme fading, as well as fading at the backside which can make it appear larger.

While it’s cool to have the look of distressed denim, beware of bold or too much whiskering (the thin horizontal lines and folds created by linear fading and wrinkling around the fly and upper thigh area.) This denim finish can be unflattering and will draw attention to this area of the body.  Whiskering can often look too young, but also- why would you want attention at your fly area?

Lighter denim wash washes are more casual, and will also draw more attention to your lower figure then dark washes.

“Colored, coated and printed denim”

Pastel colored denim carries the same rules as white jeans- they will definitely draw attention to your lower half.  Bright colors do the same, though their depth of color can conceal slightly better than their lighter cousins.

If you want to go for a light color for a fresh spring look, but are self-conscious of your hip area, then wear a long, hip covering tunic or blazer in a color that’s at least a little darker, to deemphasize this area and bring attention down to your legs.

Deep jewel tone colors are easier to wear, and more flattering to pull off because they’re darker.

Printed denim for spring is au courant, but beware of patterns that accent the wrong places or appear too busy.

For rocking your patterned denim, I recommend keeping the rest of the outfit neutral and fairly simple.  A dark top will ground the look, and a long top will minimize the intensity, while providing more of a subtle “wow” factor.

Colored denim and patterned denim are fun fashion trends, but as with all trends—decide if these are right for your style (and your figure), don’t spend too much, and don’t be a slave to fashion!