Shopping for jeans is a freakin pain. I wish it were easy. There is no go-to brand where every style looks great. And often no consistency in sizing. I have jeans in waist sizes ranging from 25 to 28 depending on the brand, the rise, and how I prefer the jeans to look. It’s tricky to get it right, but it can make a huge difference in how you look and feel when you do.

The way your jeans fit is crucial to how much you’ll enjoy wearing them. There are several failsafe steps you can take to ensure the shopping process is easy. Ahead, my step-by-step guide for buying the perfect pair.

01. ALLOW TIME TO GET IT RIGHT

Picking the right pair of jeans should be approached with patience. Getting the perfect fit will take time and potentially a bit of ordering and trying on. This is part of the process. Give yourself ample time to try on and move around in several pairs of jeans before deciding to part with your money.

02. TAKE MEASUREMENTS

Preparation is key to finding the perfect pair of jeans, especially if you are buying online. It can feel a bit daunting, but it’s all about deciphering the size guide. Know your measurements and read the fine print. Most brands and retailers will list fit details so you can accurately determine your correct size.

How To Mesure

• WAIST - Measure at the smallest part of your waist around where your natural stomach crease is. For most, this is about 1 inch above the belly button.

• HIPS - Measure the widest portion of your hips, right below the top of your hip bones.

• INSEAM - Measure the length from your crotch to your ankle (or where you want your jeans to end).

03. PAY ATTENTION TO THE DETAILS

Understanding denim features (wash, fabric weight, pocket placement, level of distressing, etc.) you like vs. dislike will help narrow down the options when searching for a new pair.

04. BEWARE OF TOO MUCH STRETCH

The amount of stretch in jeans will also affect the fit. Jeans with more stretch will be more forgiving with sizing; however, too much stretch will quickly look like you are wearing leggings vs. denim.

Denim without stretch is more rigid and often looks better but can take time to wear in. My recommendation is to go with a mix of cotton (at least 95% or greater) with a bit of stretch (no more than 5% spandex, elastane, polyester) for cool-looking denim that’s comfortable.

05. FOLLOW THE “LESS IS MORE” PRINCIPAL

Instead of buying two pairs of $100-jeans, buy one $200-pair and then go on a denim shopping hiatus if needed.

06. DO AT-HOME FITTINGS

Before the tags come off, be sure to wear the jeans for a few minutes at home. Walk around and sit down to make sure they feel comfortable. Pair them with a few different style tops to ensure that they work with your existing wardrobe. If all goes well, they’re keepers!

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