Shopping for jeans makes one excited and terrified at the same time. One minute you’re hopeful; the next you’re carrying a pair that seems oddly little for a child. This is a basic game plan for finding women jeans that hug all the right places, last through spills and washes, and keep you looking current.

Starting with fit
The best thing about any body is their differences. If you have curves, draw attention to your waist with high-rise cut jeans either straight-leg or mom. Both shapes—straight and hourglass—shine in slim or flare suits. I have a short frame. Petite sections or cropped lengths could be quite helpful. Try on several cuts; jeans might really surprise you. And a decent rule of thumb: go by feel; overlook the tag size. You have a winner if the waistline stays put and you forgot you were wearing them.

It’s All About Fabrics.
Denim uses stretch as his covert weapon. A small bit—between 1 and 3% of elastane makes jeans flexible; you want them to move with you, not against you. Classic 100% cotton provides that vintage feel if you like old-school structure and appreciate breaking in your jeans. For warm days, lighter weights are breezy; heavier denim provides support and durability. Dark rinse covers spots. Faded blues complement anything rather naturally. Black looks instantly skinny on those all-purpose days.

Fashion Trends to Keep Eye on
Here is when the enjoyment really starts. Think high waist, relaxed thigh, straight or ever-so-tapered leg; mom jeans have thrown skinny jeans from their throne. Particularly with a tucked-in top, wide-leg and baggy pants also make noise. Raw hemlines, vintage washes, and creative distressing give character. Even patchwork is beginning to show up. If you’re looking for sales, previous season’s patterns always show a price drop—nabbing yourself something beautiful at half the price feels much better.

One more advice: ask someone honest whether those jeans would be a love match or do a mirror selfie. Should you find yourself smiling, they are keepers. Fashion is intended to be fun—a little bit of experimenting, bending, maybe even some dancing in the appropriate place. The ideal jeans seem to fit every aspect and somehow make every outfit seem appropriate.