Whenever I go anywhere, or even think of going anywhere, they’re the first item of clothing I envision. They go with fancy frilly tops and heels, or teeshirts and sneakers. For many (including myself), they’re practically a daily uniform.
Of course I’m talking about jeans. I’d be lost without them.
I don’t love a jean with pockets or flashy logos that call attention to my butt, or glittery doodads all over the leg to instantly date the style. (Like Ed Hardy, for ideal example. Shudder).
I am a picky bella. I like my jeans wide legged or boot cut, slim in the thigh. I want a jean that makes my butt look good, and that is comfortable enough to wear all day.
Finding the perfect pair of jeans can become a bit challenging if you’re a full figured, curvy gal. I’ll share my favorites with you if you share yours with me. Deal? Deal!
I’ve reviewed them before and I’ll say it again — Rocawear makes a real effort to find a fit that flatters fuller figures. Their sizes go up to 24, and on most pairs the R symbol is subdued enough to be classy. (Or at least, I find them way less distracting than the apple pockets on AppleBottom jeans).
There are jeans brands out there that claim to truly be made for women with curves. But the funny thing about PZI Jeans is that the sizes are limited. I know many bellas who are just below what I’d call plus size, who adore these jeans — they range from size 4 to 18. I fall into the plus size camp, so unfortunately these jeans remain just outside my grasp. Here’s hoping that the brand expands their size range to truly rep for women with fuller figures.
Cookie Johnson (yes, Magic’s wife) has just come out with her own line of denim as well — currently available at Nordstrom for ahem, Nordstrom prices. $198 for the chic dark rinsed flares you see here.
Lucky, lucky me – I found the perfect pair of jeans at one of my favorite stores. You may already know, that’s TJ Maxx (you should go! Ha! But no really, you should!)
I was kinda psyched to see how the discount shopping experience would match up, in my move from Miami to Chicago. I felt kind of adrift, knowing there’s no Ross in this neck of the woods. Thankfully, Marshalls and TJ Maxx abound, and here it’s my one stop plus size shop.
I’ve noticed that I consistently have better luck finding affordable plus size clothing in TJ Maxx, though. Why is that? The Marshalls here in Illinois had a great selection of most everything else, but of late the selections have been skewing a little higher end than one might expect. I found a military style Ralph Lauren jacket that I was DYING for — but it cost $150. A fraction of the original price, sure…but still sadly out of my range.
At TJ Maxx I was able to find a sizeable range of jeans sizes, in brands ranging from the hip hop fab (shake your derrierre in Dereon, anyone?) to tried and true classic (good ol’ Levi’s). I tried on numerous pairs before discovering my new favorite big girl pants.
Not Your Daughters’ Jeans describes themselves as the “original tummy tuck jean,” and they come in sizes 2 to 24. The secret? No front pockets. Instead of front pockets and buttons that add bulk, the front of these jeans are smooth, streamlined, and high waisted. They made my stomach look svelte, my butt look perky, and my legs look long and lean. I LOVE THESE JEANS! Inside there’s a sticker from the founder, which simply says “you can thank us later.”
I’m saying thanks NOW.
NYDJ is also one of those department store brands, but thanks be to the craptastic economy, you can find loads of high end garments at your local discount stores. I got my pair for less than $30.
What’s next on my jeans radar? I managed to get my mitts on a copy of Dickies’ Buyer’s Guide catalog — click here to get yours! Dickies has an insane selection of clothes in larger sizes that for some reason aren’t available on their website. I’m eyeing the flannel lined jeans — I ain’t playing games with Chicago winter!
What are your favorite jeans, bellas? Tell me your brand o’ choice and where you get them!
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