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Anonymous

https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/56787645280760474

https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/56787645282152727/

http://lacooletchic.tumblr.com/post/97067088602

http://crushculdesac.tumblr.com/post/93970294184

These are representative of the look I'd like to achieve. Whether it's achievable on a non-model body is something to consider, as is how current this look is.

What I'm looking for: ease through the leg (not fitted or stretchy), mid rise (maybe a high rise ? haven't tried any on yet) , medium blue, tiny bit of distressing is ok, but no rips or anything distracting, no stretch (or very little). I wear about a 29 or 30 from GAP, depending on the cut, but when I get into looser fit styles, if they are fluid through the thighs, they are then far too big in the waist and crotch. I suppose I'm fairly apple shaped .

I talked to a friend about this today, who disagreed with me about the stretch factor and skinny jeans. She argues they are far more flattering than boyfriend fit jeans. Mind you , she's the one who got me buying JAG jeans, so who knows. I just know I don't want that kind of fabric.

Factors to consider:

1. I have a mental block toward premium/designer denim. Intellectually, I get that they are worth the price if you find a fantastic pair, but I'm not over that hurdle yet. Canadian premium denim prices are a LOT higher than what you are used to seeing in the US, and free shipping and returns are not a given. Therefore, no mass ordering and experimenting. I have one pair of JBrand jeans and one from CE , so I'm not a total neophyte but they aren't so fantastic that I'd buy them again at full price. Both are skinnies with stretch.

2.This (wanting a mid level price) is where I'm hitting a wall though, as GAP is not doing a boyfriend jean anymore, and isn't offering anything new right now. Levi's The Wedgie (that name!) runs as high as $175 (although prices seem all over the place) - so they would have to be pretty spectacular to warrant that price.

3. The one benefit to stretch skinnies is that they have a spanx effect - which is good for my midsection - but again, it's not a look I care for now.

Questions:

1. are men's jeans a possible alternative?
2. am I barking up the wrong tree with the look I think I want?

Angie suggested I start this thread, but I feel that with our different Canadian market, and what I am (not) willing to spend, this might not be relevant to many of you. But if you have thoughts, or any commentary on what is really new in jeans, I'm all ears.

Dressing

94 replies

Latest reply was from Suzanimal

Lynette

Hi Lisa, I also need to get away from so much spandex. I recently purchased Boden’s Cambridge Ankle Skimmers with released hems. They are similar to the items you posted and were on sale for a great price. They have only 1% spandex. I do wonder if this style makes me look a little wider but it is a nice change from stretchy skinnies. Can you order from Boden there?

Brooklyn

Veteran

When you say JAG jeans, do you mean the Australian brand JAG? (I not sure if there is another.) Have you tried the JAG Bianca high rise straight leg jeans? I have them and they look a little similar to your fourth pic when rolled. I do not have skinny legs. They are 98% cotton.
Sorry, I can’t help with US brands. Premium denim is also uber expensive here ($300-400). I only look at it when it’s on sale.

jussie

Veteran

Hi there, here are some jeans currently at Macy's that might fit the bill. They're having some sort of sale. Hope it helps. I rather like the look of the INC pair myself.

Although there's no way to tell about the elastane/stretching out too much factor without trying them on...... which is unfortunate. I feel your pain here in Aus it's still not super practical to order a lot online, unless it's from ASOS or The Iconic which I am not really a big fan of.

Cheers.

Style & Co. Curvy-Fit Cuffed Boyfriend Jeans, Created for Macy's

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INC International Concepts I.N.C. Curvy-Fit Cropped Jeans, Created for Macy's

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Style & Co. Cropped High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans, Created for Macy's

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kerry

Veteran

Would any of these work?

https://www.aritzia.com/en/pro.....color=1502

https://www.aritzia.com/en/pro.....color=1410

https://www.abercrombie.ca/sho.....8;ofp=true

https://www.talbots.com/online.....ai-feo=off

https://www.simons.ca/en/women.....olourId=45

https://www.simons.ca/en/women.....olourId=42

SarahD8

Veteran

Lisa, I am no help when it comes to finding jeans, but what I notice about those links that you posted is that the outfits all have a dressy element to them that contrasts with the relaxed vibe of the jeans (dressy shoe, scarf, silk-looking blouse, etc.) I think Angie was on to something when she suggested a dressier shoe on your other thread. (I get that you are also looking to purchase new jeans, but that is really what jumped out at me about your aspirational looks.)

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

Ok I am going to combine two boring thoughts that I keep repeating. The only way to tell is to try on a lot of pairs. When I am in NY and looking for jeans I go to a place like the Buffalo Exchange (second hand reseller, not charity shop) and try on lots of jeans in different sizes, different cuts, different makes, different years, etc. A department store would also work if you are near a good one, but the choice is more limited.

jussie

Veteran

Oh and I forgot to say I think the look you want is achievable. Totally!
Just gotta find some jeans. You already have nice jackets and shoes....

Sal

Veteran

I think this look would look fantastic on you. It is a modern classic jean -and I agree with SarahD8 about the juxtoposition. Here I would consider Levi's, Lee, Superdry and Mavi as possible brands - kind of mid range. And I had success with men's jeans on the past. I have a mixed relationship with premium denim - it is really expensive here for brands like Paige, COH!!

Meredith

Veteran

Just popping in to say I think it’s a great look and I like something similar for myself. Have you tried the GAP “real straights” in a size up and cuffed? I hope you’re able find something that works!

Runcarla

Veteran

My newest pair of jeans were picked up in the men's department of Winners. They are 99% cotton/1% Lycra Wrangler Slim Vintage Selvedge jeans. They are a straight cut dark wash Jean. I like that there isn't any stretch (I hate stretchy jeans that 'grow' with body heat), but they are not tight on the thigh. They cost me $33.89 CA and are currently my new favourite jeans (that aren't white.) There were Levi jeans as well in the same price range, but they didn't fit me as well as the Wranglers.

I would also suggest that you check out Simons. I've shopped the lovely Ottawa store with success, and am going throught their website with a view to putting in an order. They are Canadian and seem to be better than the Bay, but not quite Nordstoms.

Bijou

Veteran

Do you have any department stores near you that provide a personal shopper service? I once was desperate for new jeans (had to go on a work conference and all my jeans were not appropriate for the "smart casual conference dress code"). Similar to the above, I sent my personal shopper pictures and also specified by spending limit. She pulled about 20 pairs and helped me get the right pair for me. It was a great service and one that I should probably use again.

You always look great in your outfits, so it is the jeans NOT you. Shopping for jeans is tough second only to flattering swimmers.

What are Levi's even thinking of calling some jeans "The Wedgie"???

ma

Veteran

Have you checked H&M lately? I found some %100 cotton “vintage crops” last summer for about $40 usd...they seem to have the same vibe as your inspiration phots, although they are high waisted. Good luck with your search!!

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I saw some in Madewell earlier today that had that vibe, but I had tried on some stuff in another store (all a disaster), so was not feeling like disrobing again to torment myself further. Stupidly (hey, I was getting hungry), I forgot to note the name of the cut. They looked a bit high waisted but otherwise possibly promising for this kind of look.

A few years ago I would have directed you to Lucky, but they have since changed their fabrications and now use a lot more stretch than they used to.

My AG Tomboy and boyfriend jeans from a few years ago are still in rotation and the closest thing I have to what you’re seeking. I am looking for something similar too, and to no avail. I’m still seeing primarily skinnies, and very high-waisted ones at that. I’ll keep an eye out for you too.

Elly

Veteran

I enjoy the looks you posted . . . could totally see you rocking something similar -- more classic/rugged denim with the refined color palette and accessories. I've struggled with a curvy lower half and finding jeans to fit that give off a similar vibe, but I think a lot of it is the fact that I have a narrow waist which has kept me from fitting many BF and men's styles without having to do major alterations.

I'd check out these two styles from levis

https://www.levi.com/US/en_US/...../362000005

https://www.levi.com/US/en_US/...../283420009

Have you looked at madewell or everlane?

If you try men's jeans, I'd second Carla's suggestion for a more contemporary western brand/cuts . . . men who ride horses tend to have thicker quads, which means a better fit for ladies with curvy thighs (I often run into men's pants being too tight in the very upper thigh).

When I was really desperate for BF jeans a few years back I ended up with a size or two up in Gap's real straights. Sometimes they make lower stretch fabrications.

I'm feeling inspired . . .

Deborah

Veteran

Lisa, I really like what you linked from Pinterest. I think I have a couple of those on my boards too I need to point out I am not a jeans expert and I rarely wear them, but it looks to me like you might actually be looking for a straight leg jean? You mention boyfriend jeans but none of those look like BF's to me, they appear to be too well fitting on the bottom tummy. I actually like a straight leg jean cuffed, it's less bulky and creates a similar vibe to the BF' but is a little more sophisticated in my very humble opinion. And yes I thing you can definitely rock that look in the Pinterest pics.

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

I would try boyfriend jeans from eBay. Used or new, from the US or Canada. Be willing to pay shipping, and take sellers who offer returns until you know your right size.

My personal favorite is Frame Le Garcon. They are mid rise or lower, but otherwise they look a lot like the pictures you're showing. I also like CoH boyfriend and girlfriend jeans. I size down one to two sizes for boyfriend cuts, unless I am going for a really oversized look. Size down, the look is a lot more like your pictures.

Style Fan

Veteran

Lisa, I like the looks you are showing. I have been looking at Everlane jeans and been considering a pair from them. They get great reviews. Another online jean company that is not as well known is Mott & Bow. I have seen some bloggers in their BF jeans (and mom jeans). I would order their mom jeans but they are sold out.
I have ordered jeans from ebay. I got a pair of Paige BF jeans about a year ago for a good price. Mine were $100 instead of $300.

LaPed

Veteran

This is a definitely a look you should be able to achieve! I love the vintage straight-leg vibe; I usually achieve it by buying old Levi's, either locall or off ebay/etsy. But it would be worth taking a look at Madewell and current Levi's as well.

For Madewell, there's the Perfect Summer Jean and the Slim Boyjean, and the Cruiser Straight Leg.

I agree that the Levi's Wedgie might work (Everlane just released a jean they call a "Cheeky Straight Leg" which appears to be very similar), but the Wedgie it isn't all that different from the 501 and 505. There's also the 501ct and the 505c which are supposed to be more contemporary than the original. So you could try those too.

What's really confounding with jeans is how different the fit and sizing can be from wash to wash, season to season. I'm sure Madewell has a pair of jeans for me, I just haven't found it yet.

Cardiff girl

Veteran

Jeans shopping....oh, the joy.l m afraid it’s right up there with swimwear shopping for making a girl feel good about herself,not!I understand what you want from your jeans and it doesn’t seem unreasonable.My first thought was going and employing the services of an In store personal shopper in a large department store or the like and getting them to do all the foot work whilst you just try on lots of jeans.Try alll different cuts even ones you are not sure about because sometimes you can surprise yourself ,sizing as well is totally random these days so try on lots.Good luck!

Toban

Veteran

Have you tried Lucky Brand? Yes, they have stretch which I know you don’t love, but I’ve been really impressed at their comfort and how they fit. Several cuts have the ease you are looking for. I “live” in the Sweet Crop (link below) on weekends. They are yhe most comfortable jeans I’ve ever had. They are a bit darker than you want but they have many light options. I know there is a store in Winnipeg because my mom told me about this brand. I tried on several pairs, including a pair of skinnies that actually worked on my athletic thighs.

http://www.luckybrand.com/swee.....#038;cgid=

krishnidoux

Veteran

Lisa, I'm late here, but I have been on the very same quest as you, and I agree 100% on EVERYTHING you say. I have shopped and shopped and came home either empty handed, or with yet another skinny (albeit high waist at least).

First, naming what we are looking for: some will say Girlfriend, some will call it Mom's jeans... when in fact you have described it beautifully: a non-skinny mid to high-waist with a curvier cut than stright BF (in a lighter wash, and in my size. And NOT paying ridiculous amounts that men would never even consider if it were them. Is that too much to ask? Apperently, yes).

I tried the Gap' whole store through and through in various locations in the city with no avail. The only thing remotely resembling what we are looking for is called Girlfriend at that store, but either the sizing or the fabric is wrong, or when it's fine it's also distressed, etc. I also tried every denim available at The Bay AND Nordstrom. The Bay had a better selection in my city! Still. Not found what you describe.

I am so with you about being at the end of my wits on this: we end up wondering if what we're looking for never seems to turn up because we would have the *wrong* body type (when you wonder if the look is achievable on anything else than a model body). But I am 50, I am proud of my curves, I workout hard for them, and I don't see why I should hide them or be restrained to one style only (skinnies). I look at the images you posted, which summarize my own quest perfectly, and I think my body type, with its fuller thighs, longer torso and higher waist could totally rock it. And so should yours! Oh my god, you would look so good in this silhouette. I can imgine you in it so well. I can't wait to see it in fact.

Sometimes Lisa I wonder if we aren't driven to these thoughts for being Canadian and confined to a very poor selection of available products. I will go even further and vent that I am personally insulted that there is so little variety and that my body is expected to look good let alone fit in two or three types of cuts, and one or two sizes. We are forced towards online shopping, where there is no forgiveness for us: you get the size, style, color wrong, you either pay through the nose to return it or, as a local 20yr old SA told me she and her friend did, "You sell it on Kijiji to get at least some of the value back".

krishnidoux

Veteran

The same SA told me of a US brand she ordered from with luck. She says she never had to pay the dreaded custom fees... and she ordered 7 times. She swore by those, which, she said, fit extraordinarly well:
https://www.fashionnova.com/co.....-mom-jeans

BUT, we might be slapped with tax and custom fees that add up sometimes more than the price of the jeans; there is no real possibility of returns if the size is wrong; it's very difficult to assess our sizes if we hve no experience with the brand. But I thought I'd share it anyway. Maybe an American member would know of this brand and could help us?

I found this video from a very happy Canadian shopper:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUlGn9PbAeQ

And then immediately after it, this other video from presumably US located very angry customers:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zeZFaoaXcU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?.....e=youtu.be

Janet

(website)

Veteran

LaP, thanks for the brain nudge — the ones I saw that looked interesting on the rack at Madewell were the Perfect Summer Jean. I wish I’d tried them on but I was not in the right frame of mind for more trying at that point.

I always feel like this kind of look is especially hard to achieve for anyone who has hips and thighs, so I really find it tough. By the time I find a cut (or size up) that skims my low hip without hugging, it usually means the waist is huge or the rise too long or there’s too much fabric in the front and give the dreaded polterwang effect. There is nothing quite like jeans shopping to make me feel like my thighs are freakishly large, even though I know they’re not *that* big! It’s the cuts and the fabric. So I am sympathizing with what Krish wrote. This era may provide lots of variety in fashion, but in some ways designers really need to catch up with the desires we customers have!

Helena

Veteran

Lisa, I think this look is perfect for you and I agree with Deborah that these look.more straight than BF to me, so I also might try the straights at Gap, and BR had several straighter/girlfriend styles last time I was in. I agree with you, the price of premium denim is insane and well beyond what I am willing to pay! I "invested" in a couple of higher end pairs and to me Gap is just as good.

Aliona

Lisa, have you looked at Frank & Oak? Most of their jeans are all cotton, substantial, and fairly affordable (about $80 US— I believe they’re a Canadian company). I have 2 pairs and live in them. I look for 100% cotton these days. Just consigned my Madewell jeans from last year. I’d put them on and take them off immediately: too thin, and weird all-way stretch gave me that “double bum” look in the rear. I see Madewell has a few all cotton offerings now so may try them again.

Irina

Veteran

Lisa, I’m looking for exactly the same jeans. By chance, I found one pair of Levi’s at Winners a couple of days ago. Skinny 501 with button fly. They are not too skinny, more like slim. Unfortunately they were too small for me but now I know there is something to check. I found them on the Levi’s site but I want to see it IRL. Going to the Bay and Aritzia to look at their inventory.

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Anonymous

WOW! This was fantastic to wake up to this morning! Keep em coming

I'll look through and comment later this morning .A few things: the idea of a personal shopper made me laugh and cry at the same time...in our city of 800k, you'd think our biggest department store would have that service. We're lucky if you can find an open sales desk to pay at, never mind ask for help. And yes, a straight leg jean is likely a solution , but not as obvious as you'd think. You'd think sizing up to get a loose fit would be the ticket - but it never works that way.

Chris987

Veteran

I am generally looking for jeans much like you specify. I'm pear shaped and when jeans fit my upper thighs the rise is usually too long, the waist is ALWAYS too big, and the length may be off. Very much like Janet's issues. I have been taking in waists and shortening hems on jeans for decades but the rise is not easily fixable.

Getting the fit right and just the right "ease in the leg" and leg shape is totally unpredictable in my view, so you really have to try on what feels like thousands of pairs to find the right ones, at least that's the way it works for me. And, once you find ones that work they are discontinued. . The terms "skinny, slim, straight, boyfriend, girlfriend" are only loose guidelines - they have very little real consistency across brands except that they won't mean wide flares

I too have a mental block against premium denim but not just because of the price, it's also because they NEVER fit me right so I don't waste my time.

I have the best luck lately at either Macys where I've found models that work for me, although I don't think Macys is in Canada so that does not help you, and strangely enough TJMaxx (your Winners). I look at jeans and do some try ons almost every time I go to TJMAxx and can visit a dozen times or more without finding anything. Yesterday after a very long dry spell I found THREE pairs! I found finds for them ..the first one has a wide cuff I will unstich and hem a bit longer, the Lucky ones are boot cut which is not what you want, and the third (in white) is LIKE the find but a different model that is called a "crop" but is full length on me.

Lucky is a brand that works for me, but 1822 and Vintage America are new to me so now I can look for other jeans in those brands. So I found jeans and did retail research at the same time, but it took a LOT of work. Not exactly a system that is predictable or can be repeated by others but it works for me.

Not sure this has been much help...hopefully the sum total of all the responses here will give you some ideas.

1822 Denim Roll Cuff Ankle Skinny Jeans

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Lucky Brand Lolita Bootcut Jeans

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Vintage America Boho Cropped Skinny Jeans

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kkards

Veteran

lisa p---i know exactly what you are looking for...in fact i've been looking for the same thing, and have some of the same inspirational photos on my pinterest board....now if only i had an answer for you....
that being said, i tried The Wedgie -didn't do anything for me, but i'd never say never, and if you can find them in a local store, i'd give them a try.....
i haven't tried any of these, but they look promising (and i believe all ship to canada) i really like the look of the Everlane---and they have over 1000 reviews would should help with the sizing....the topshop look interesting, but the rise maybe higher than what you are looking for, and i think maybe the gap slim straights may have the same issue, but figured i'd offer them up anyway (no stone etc...)

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The Modern Boyfriend Jean

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