HOW TO WEAR

The best jeans for your body shape

Take the stress out of jeans shopping with our break down of the best styles to suit your shape.

Editor: Gabi van Rey

Admittedly, we expect a lot from our jeans. We want them to flatter, sculpt, streamline, be super comfy and make our legs look like they go on for miles. Too much to ask? We don’t think so.

Our expert buying team travel far and wide to seek out the denim brands that really deliver. We’re talking everything from ingenious cuts to patented jean technology that makes you look a whole size smaller (we’re looking at you NYDJ). Your hunt for the perfect pair ends here.

Large derrière

A larger derrière needs styles that support and sculpt it without making it look bigger. Flared styles are ideal since they balance out your proportions, while bootcut jeans create the same effect. For something a little more casual, boyfriend and girlfriend cuts visually flatten the bottom thanks to their relaxed fit.

Wash wise, dark shades create a lean leg line making them all together the most flattering colour. Look out for pocket placement too; ones that hit right at the middle of your rear will instantly give it a lift.

STYLING SECRETS:

1. A pale, printed t-shirt will take the focus away from the lower body.
2. Tops with a dipped hem drape loosely over your derrière, providing easy coverage.

Short legs

Lengthening the appearance of your legs is easier than you think, it’s just knowing which styles to go for. Avoid baggier cuts like boyfriend jeans that will swamp you and instead opt for skinny and straight fits that cleverly streamline your silhouette. High waisted cuts are also great for making you look leaner, while flared styles worn with block heels will buy you extra inches.

Many of our designer denim brands offer jeans in petite sizes, like Kj Brand and Raphaela by Brax. Your tailor might just start missing you.

STYLING SECRETS:

1. Coordinating the colour of your jeans and shoes will instantly make your legs appear longer.

2. Avoid cropped cuts and turn-up hems that will shorten your frame.

3. Details like vertical fading and stripes create a taller, sleeker silhouette.

Full thighs

As mentioned previously, dark washes have a fabulous slimming effect, yet the cut of your jeans is also a major factor when it comes to flattering full thighs. Bootcut, flared and straight cuts are all great for balancing out your proportions and complementing your curves.

For a more laid-back take, you can always count on the comfort of boyfriend and girlfriend jeans thanks to their wider legs.

STYLING SECRETS:

1. Avoid jeans that have lots of pockets or stud detailing around the thigh area, as they will make you look wider than you are.

2. Go for tops that drape loosely over your bottom and hips. Wearing bright colours and bold patterns puts the focus on the upper body.

Full middle

High-rise jeans are your BFF when it comes to flattering a fuller tummy. Sitting on or slightly above the waist they cleverly suck you in and flatten your mid section. For extra support, look out for jeans that have spandex in them, not only are they ultra comfy, they do wonders for smoothing over any lumps or bumps.

In addition to the rise, the cut and fit are just as important. Skinny jeans in particular expertly divert the attention away from your tummy and put the focus on your lower body.

If you have a full tummy and thighs, straight, wide or slightly flared cuts with a high-rise waist will instantly flatter.

STYLING SECRETS:

1. Team your jeans with blouses and tunics that gently drape over your mid section for a flattering fit.

2. Avoid low-rise cuts at all costs; they’re the biggest causes of muffin tops.

Shopping tip

The three key things to keep in mind when buying jeans, is the cut, wash and rise (where the waistband sits).