The Weekend Read ✨Denim Decoded: Our Guide to Your Perfect Pair of Jeans

Jenny Goldsmith | Read in 9 minutes

Hello!

Is there any fabric quite as iconic as denim? We’d wager not. Whether you’re in your twenties or sixty-five plus, there’s a high chance denim holds a prime spot in your wardrobe. And with good reason — denim is the style chameleon of the fashion world: classic, rebellious, comfortable, tailored, dressed up or down, and endlessly wearable.

But with great versatility comes great variety. So this week, we’re diving deep into the world of denim. From finding your perfect jeans to understanding rise, cut, and fit. We'll explore jackets and dresses, offer you styling tips and take a whirlwind trip through denim’s surprisingly rebellious history.

Let’s Start with the History (because who doesn’t love a good origin story!)

Denim first dates back to the 17th century with the creation of "serge de Nîmes" in Nîmes, France. This durable twill weave fabric, often dyed indigo, was initially used for workwear, particularly for sailors and miners. Then in the late 1800s, a man named Levi Strauss, in partnership with tailor Jacob Davis, changed fashion forever. They were catering to miners in need of durable workwear, and thus, the riveted blue jean was born in 1873. These sturdy trousers weren’t created with fashion in mind—they were about function. But it wasn’t long before function met form.

In the 1950s, denim took on a new role — thanks to rebellious icons like James Dean and Marlon Brando. Suddenly, jeans became the go-to for youth, rebellion, and a casual coolness that would carry through the decades. The '70s brought bell-bottoms and disco denim. The '80s favoured acid wash and oversized jackets. In the '90s, high-rise 'Mum jeans' reigned supreme. And let’s not forget the low-rise era of the 2000s—loved and loathed in equal measure.

Today, we have the luxury of choice, with every cut, wash, and rise imaginable. But one thing remains constant: denim’s place as a fashion staple.

The Weekend Read ✨Denim Decoded: Our Guide to Your Perfect Pair of Jeans

Denim by Design: Which Jeans Work for You?

Let’s talk about body architecture, because this is key. Finding your perfect pair of jeans isn’t about chasing trends, it’s about discovering a fit that celebrates your shape and complements your style and personality.

Skinny jeans: With their second-skin fit, they are brilliant for highlighting long legs and balancing out flowy tops. They work wonderfully on petite figures or anyone with a leaner frame. But they’re not just for the slim — they can be a dream under tunics or longline layers for those with curves too.

Straight-leg jeans: The Goldilocks of denim — not too tight, not too loose, and incredibly versatile. If you’re curvy or have strong legs, this cut gives you room to breathe while still offering a neat silhouette. They pair beautifully with ankle boots, flats, or even a high heel.

Boyfriend and Girlfriend jeans: The relaxed cut of the group, these are your off-duty heroes. Their slouchy charm suits curvier hips, straighter torsos, and anyone wanting to project an effortless ease. Add a blazer and heels, and suddenly they’re brunch-ready.

Bootcut and Flared jeans: They are having a renaissance — and we’re thrilled. They balance hips, lengthen legs, and look fabulous with tucked-in tops. If you have a curvy body , or even a straight body wanting to create the illusion of curves, these are your best friends.

Wide-leg and palazzo jeans: These are for the drama lovers! Think Katharine Hepburn meets modern chic. They command attention, drape like a dream, and can create the illusion of height and movement, especially when worn with a platform heel.

Mum jeans: High-waisted, slightly tapered, and oh-so-comfortable. The trick? Choose a rise that flatters and a cut that doesn’t bunch at the crotch. Add a belt, a French tuck, and a bold lipstick—you’re onto a winning look!

Rise and Shine: Finding Your Jean Rise

Rise matters. In fact, it’s the unsung hero of a well-fitting jean. The rise determines where your jeans sit on your body, which directly impacts how they feel, look, and flatter your body shape.

To find your ideal rise, you’ll need a soft tape measure and a bit of honesty in front of the mirror. Locate your natural waist — the narrowest part of your torso, typically just above your belly button. Now, measure the distance from your crotch seam up to this point. That’s your optimum rise.

Jeans come in three main rise categories: low (7-8"), mid (9-10"), and high (11-13"+). But remember, it’s not just about numbers. Your torso length, bust size, and proportions all play a part. A high-rise on one body may feel like a mid-rise on another. As House of Colour stylists, we look at the whole picture — how your body moves, where your waist sits, and how your clothes work with you.

Mid-rise tends to be the most universally flattering, sitting comfortably on the hips and offering coverage without restriction. High-rise is a tummy's best friend, while low-rise — for those who can and want to rock it — offers a laid-back 2000s vibe.

Top tip: Try sitting down in each pair before committing. Comfort is the true test.

Denim Beyond Jeans

Denim is not just a bottom-half affair. Let’s talk top-half, one-pieces, and outerwear.

A great denim jacket is worth its weight in gold. Cropped styles add definition at the waist and look fantastic layered over maxi dresses or jumpsuits. If you’re petite or curvy, opt for a jacket that stops at your natural waist — anything longer can overwhelm your proportions. Are you tall or do you have a straight body? Try a longer-line shacket or oversized cut for a modern edge.

Denim shirts are another versatile addition. Tuck them into skirts, layer over tees, or knot at the waist for shape. Shirts come in so many styles too - your classic style with double pockets, oversize for layering or a pussy bow tied at the neck. The options are endless.

Denim dresses are a fabulous all-in-one solution. Shirt dresses with belts add curves, while A-line styles are great for most body shapes. Add tights and boots in colder months, or sandals and a straw bag come summer. And yes, they absolutely belong in your capsule wardrobe.

Styling Denim: The Dos & Don’ts

We get asked a lot about double denim, and the answer is absolutely! You can match the wash for a block-coloured look, or you can vary the wash — pair dark jeans with a pale chambray shirt, or vice versa. It’s bold, but it works. Add some texture, and treat denim like a neutral. It goes with everything. That poppy red blouse in your Spring palette? Gorgeous with cream jeans. That magenta t-shirt for a Winter? Stunning against an indigo wash.

Denim also loves accessories. Add a statement necklace, bright scarf, or metallic trainers to elevate your look. You’re not limited to casual. Denim can be cocktail-worthy with the right partner.

And finally — avoid denim that's too distressed. A touch of fray is fine, but large rips, extreme washes, or too-tight fits can look dated and miss the mark.

Denim For Every Budget

Whatever your budget, there's a denim out there for you.

At the luxury end, we love FRAME, Mother Denim, Citizens of Humanity, and AG Jeans — they’re known for beautiful craftsmanship, sculpting fits, and staying power. They’re an investment, yes — but one that will pay off every time you reach for them.

Mid-range champions include Levi’s (forever the benchmark), Whistles, & Other Stories, and NYDJ. These brands offer trend-led shapes with quality fabrics. Levi’s in particular cater to an incredible range of sizes and body types.

On the more accessible end, you have M&S, Next, Gap, and Uniqlo who deliver comfort, value and variety. A great starting point if you’re experimenting with new styles.

Want to go sustainable? Try Nudie Jeans, Yes Friends, Fanfare or Kuyichi. These brands are doing amazing things for the planet without compromising on style.

What to Look for When Buying Denim

Here’s your checklist. Look for jeans with 1-2% elastane if you want comfort without sag. Examine the back pocket placement — pockets should sit evenly and not dip too low. Diagonal yoke seams can enhance shape beautifully.

Consider the wash — darker shades are slimming and dressy, while light wash es create a more casual look. And always use your seasonal colour palette as a guide: Springs and Autumns shine in warm mid-washes; Winters suit high contrast dark or light shades and Summers need a light to mid stonewash for softness.

Final Thoughts: Are You Denim Savvy?

Did you know the average person owns seven pairs of jeans? Or that it takes 1,800 gallons of water to produce a single pair? It's a small wonder that thoughtful denim shopping is more important than ever. And here’s one for the pub quiz: jeans were once banned in schools, cinemas, and restaurants for being too rebellious. Now? They’re just as likely to be worn to brunch as they are to the boardroom.

So whether you’re rediscovering your denim groove or hunting down that elusive perfect pair, remember: the best jeans are the ones that make you feel completely yourself.

Click here for your Ultimate Denim Edit

Enjoy your weekend! Next week, The Weekend Read is all about Dopamine Dressing. Look out for that next Saturday!

Best wishes,

Jenny & Judi x