Flowy trench coat, similar here | Mother denim | Prada shoes | Gucci sunglasses

The denim to buy in 2021

Many of you probably know that I had a long career with Nordstrom … 29 years to be exact! I did take some time off in the middle to be a mom, which I loved with all my heart. Luckily, when I decided to come back as a Personal Stylist, it was in the department where all the cool denim is carried. I quickly realized how important it is to find jeans that fit really well, and how challenging it is for many of us! But here’s something to remember: it’s better to have 2-3 jeans you love and wear all the time, rather than a bunch that fit just ok. That’s why spending a little extra on your denim is worth it — it’s the most important wardrobe staple of all!

Over the years, many of you have written me about different issues you have with jeans. Many of you don’t like a high rise, but some love it. You’ve gained a little weight and don’t know which jeans are flattering. The style has changed and the new, popular one doesn’t look good on you. And there’s the length issue, which brand to buy, what’s in style, how you wash your jeans (you don’t!), etc etc! It’s a lot, I know 😉

Well, let me help you! Today’s post is about 3 washes to buy now, and how to wear them both now and later. I’ll also answer the questions my clients ask me the most. Follow me on Instagram for daily style tips, and subscribe to the blog so you never miss a post!

Inspo

Images via Pinterest

Light-wash denim — now and later

 

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Light wash denim has always been a favorite, and I love how it contrasts with black. Wear it now with turtlenecks, scarves and booties, and later with sandals and basket bags. I’m obsessed with the Levi’s 501 skinny and Wedgie Icon, and anything by Mother brand.  AGOLDE and Frame have some great styles too.

Gray-wash denim — now and later

  

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Probably my favorite denim trend in recent months, a blackish/grayish wash is super easy to wear and is a nice switch-up from black. I recently purchased this one by Frame, and I also have my eye on this one and this one. Check them out!

Black denim — now and later

 

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I can’t imagine putting together outfits without black denim! It’s my go-to several times a week. I just purchased this Levi’s style, which is very different than the lighter wash styles I mentioned above. This one is stretchy, and works for so many people! You’ll love this Frame style, this AGOLDE and this one by Paige.

Brand favorite: Mother

I can’t say enough good things about this brand. For more inspo, head straight to the Mother website. If you are looking for a slim straight leg, check out the Dazzler and the Rascal. The Tomcat is a little looser straight-leg but is a hot seller, and the Insider is another favorite. If you like a flare, the Mother Weekender is so good — I’m wearing it in this photo!

Brand favorite: Levi’s

Levi’s can be a little tricky, but here are three that I know work. First, the high rise 724 style. I own it in two washes and they’re stretchy and comfy — check it out here. The Icon Wedgie is another good one, but it doesn’t have stretch so you have to do a few knee bends to soften it up. Lastly, the 501 skinny — possibly better for someone who’s a little taller, and this wash is a good one!

Brand favorite: Madewell

The 9″ skinny in the color Black Sea is a personal favorite, I wore it in this video. Madewell does such a good job with their denim, and they come in petite and plus sizes. The 9″ and 10″ skinnies are top sellers. The Cali bootcut is great with a slight kick flare, and the Perfect Vintage jean is also popular!

Brand favorite: Frame -25% off here

Frame is another cool LA-made denim brand. If you’re looking for a skinny, the Le High is great. Le Sylvie is a good straight leg, and if you like a crop flare, check out the mini boot style.

Brand favorite: Paige

I love Paige. Maybe it’s because I met her at a Nordstrom event in LA, but really it’s that the fit is always consistent and they look great on most everyone. The Hoxton is a great skinny, and you might also like the slim straight leg called Cindy.

Let’s talk about high-rise denim!

To be clear, the rise I think looks the best on most people is somewhere between a 9″ – 11″ rise. If you have a tummy like I do (argh), then going too high accentuates it, and you won’t feel good in your jeans. Be sure and check the rises before purchasing. As I wrote in my Instagram post yesterday, if you have any low-rise jeans, toss them 🙂 There’s nothing more dated than low-rise jeans with a belt. There are exceptions of course, but if you were with me in the dressing room, this is probably what I would say!

The newest and most stylish jean to own: a straight leg

I don’t know what the current percentage is in terms of sales of Skinnies vs. Straight-Leg, but a year ago, straight leg was leading by a lot. I’ve found that a slimmer straight leg jean is the one that looks the best on most people. Check out the AG Mari, Mother Dazzler, Frame Le Sylvie, PAIGE Cindy and the Madewell Classic Straight. All super flattering!

Are skinny jeans out of style?

No, they are considered classic at this point, and they do have a place in our wardrobes. For example, if you’re wearing combat boots or a boot like the one I wore in this photo, they’re a must. Emily wore hers with an over the knee boot the other day. But, I would consider investing your money in a straight leg style instead!

How do you wash your jeans?

You don’t. Ok, you can if you spill something on them, but I can’t remember the last time I washed my jeans. If you’re worried about drying them, the AG denim rep told me to hang them outside!

What length should they be?

For starters, no bunching. I’m always surprised when doing closet consults how many jeans we own that are the wrong length! It’s a simple fix, but makes a huge difference. All skinnies should be right around the ankle — then every shoe will work, from a sneaker to a sandal to a heel.

Thank you for reading! xo