Jeans are among the timeless apparel that every man should have. They’re versatile, extremely comfortable, and flattering for almost every body type. They’re also suitable for almost all seasons, outfits, and occasions, making them truly universal.
Although a pair of jeans is considered an essential item in everyone’s wardrobe, finding the perfect one can still be challenging and overwhelming. With all the available styles, fits, and colors, sometimes it can feel like there are too many choices and everything looks almost identical. We have created this guide to help you better understand jeans and how you can make the most out of them.
Types of jeans
Through the years, jeans have transformed from having just one universal cut to having a variety of styles that fit and flatter different body types. Once you understand which ones work for you, it will be easier to shop for jeans and create outfits that best suit your personality and style.
Super skinny jeans
As the name suggests, this type of jeans is incredibly fit throughout, and it snugs around your legs and clings on your lower body. It’s borderline leggings but with a thicker material. The materials usually used are non-denim, making them easier to wear and a little softer on the skin.
People with larger frames are best advised to stay away from this fit as it leaves little to imagination and really clings to every curve of your body — which may not be the most flattering for many.
Skinny jeans
While many people think that this type of jeans is the same as the super skinny one, skinny jeans are more forgiving as they are not as tight and don’t cling to your legs. They’re skinny from the hips to your hems but don’t snug your body too much. They highlight and accentuate the lower part of your body without being too revealing, making them perfect for people who have long and slender legs.
Slim jeans
Creating a clean and sleek silhouette, slim fit jeans are among the most popular fits among men. They create a slimmer shape around your legs, hugging your lower body in all the right places.
This type of jeans is not too tight and not too loose, and is usually mid-rise. Compared to skinny jeans, slim-cut ones are straight on the hips and a little tighter on the thighs with a narrow leg opening.
Straight jeans
Straight jeans, as the name suggests, are just straight cut from the hips through the thighs. They usually have a larger leg opening, with the trouser legs just falling straight from the knees down to the hems. The regular straight cut is a nod to the classic ’50s style and can be easily worn no matter your body type. It also doesn’t hug your legs, making it look more flattering for people on the larger side. Just be careful not to choose something too wide as it tends to make you look like you have a larger build.
Loose jeans
Loose jeans have a baggy fit, providing a lot of room for guys who prefer to wear something more comfy. They provide plenty of space in the thigh, leg, and butt areas. While this pair can give you great comfort, it’s not always the best way to go especially if you lack height or if you want to look slimmer.
Types of rise
When it comes to choosing pants, finding the right rise is also key. Rise is the measurement from the crotch area to the top of the waistband. This means that it will technically affect how your pants will sit on your waist and is also a great factor in terms of comfort.
High-rise
High-rise jeans are worn above the navel and are great for bigger guys. This provides support and helps you tuck parts of your lower body to give it a slimmer look. It is best paired with longer button downs or tops that no longer need to be tucked.
Mid-rise
Medium rise jeans’ waistband just skims the belly button, making it a great choice for guys who like to tuck their shirts. This is also one of the most common rises and most stylish ones available for men.
Low-rise
Low-rise jeans are usually worn below the belly button. They gives a more laid-back look, perfect for casual wear. When wearing low-rise jeans, be sure to avoid getting something too loose as it may expose some of your behind if not worn properly.
Choosing the right length
When buying jeans, some guys do not pay enough attention to the length of the pair that they’re getting. Some people will get something a little shorter than what is recommended for their height. When choosing the length of your pants’ inseam, make sure to consider if they are long enough to create a slight half or full break. That means that your pants should have a fold that runs all the way around the leg. This makes you look a lot sharper and more polished.
Choosing the right wash
Your jeans’ wash refers to how the materials are rinsed or treated during production. There are numerous options available, but here are some washes that are the most common and easiest to pair with most outfits.
Classic wash
One of the most common, classic wash features the signature medium-blue jeans. This look is perfect for casual looks and outfits that feel like casual sportswear.
Vintage wash
This type of jeans looks a little distressed, done with minimal fading and light sanding at the seams, knees, and thighs. Vintage wash is great for edgier looks as it gives that “well-worn” vibe.
Dark rinse
As the name suggests, dark rinse gives a darker shade that blends well with most outfits. It’s softer than the raw wash and has that dark, inky blue shade, which makes it so versatile and perfect for most occasions.
Raw
Unwashed and untreated, raw jeans are usually rough to the touch but have that edgy casual look. This type of jeans requires you to break it in, which usually takes a while but creates a very distinctive and unique look.
