How to Find the Best Jean Size

Picking the perfect pair of jeans doesn't have to be rocket science. Although deciphering the various lengths, waists, washes and styles may seem complicated, it doesn't have to be. Regardless of whether they are skinny, boot cut, relaxed or something else, narrowing down your jeans size is doable. Keep in mind that as the brands and styles change, so may your jeans size, but knowing your starting point will get you headed in the right direction to trying on something that's the perfect fit.

Instructions

1

Pull out the tape measure. Start the quest for your jeans by knowing your real numbers. Remove the guesswork from identifying your size by understanding that your size 11 three years ago may not be the same as now. Measure your waist, hips and inseam to know where you really stand. This way, when you go to the store you can compare your measurements against each particular brand's sizes.

2

Be honest with yourself; if you're petite, try on petite clothes. The same applies to plus, women's and junior sizes. Find clothes in the departments where you belong as the styles have been cut for a different type of body. Junior sizes are usually cut smaller for a more snug fit, sometimes with a low rise waist to expose the navel or lower abdomen. Feel confident about where you belong so you can find your perfect fit; don't get hung up on silly store labels. Use those areas as a guide.

3

Match your measurements to the jeans so you're pulling the right size jeans from the start. Try on everything you pull, remembering that not every brand is consistent; a size 11 in one brand may be a size 13 in another. Set the ones that fit well to one side.

4

Determine if the good pairs fit the bill. Look at the length of the jeans to be sure they hover below your ankles. Feel where the jeans reach between your upper thighs. The seam should fit snugly up to your crotch and not hang low closer to your thighs. Even if you are plus size or have a little extra "love" at your waistline, with the perfect fit, you should not experience a "muffin top," a term used to describe jeans that are too small, causing your sides to spill over the top of the waistband.

5

Try on a few more to make sure they are within your checklist of the perfect pair. Purchase one or two of the same brand and style when you have found some you like, so you have variety and can wear them several times, both with heels and without.

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