My earliest memory of shopping for jeans was when I went with my mother to get a pair after school one day. As a child of the 80s my wardrobe had a lot of tracksuits, frilly dresses and corduroy, so you can imagine my eagerness to add some denim! Except we couldn’t find a pair that fitted me.
I know loads of women who all complain about the same thing when it comes to jeans shopping. Either the legs are too short. Or the waist too loose. Or around the thighs it feels too tight. Or it just sits uncomfortably. It is always the same with me, if the legs are long enough and don’t flash my socks, then the waist is too loose and I flash my underwear. Either way something is always on show.
Years ago, determined to find the perfect pair of jeans I spent a fortune on a pricey brand. According to some, they have the best jeans you’ll find. All I found was an expensive pair of jeans that still threatens to fall down. The legs fitted but it was loose around my waist and sadly that pair was the best fitting in the entire store.
My favourite pair of jeans aka “The pair that fitted properly” was bought 11 years ago (it was a momentous occasion so it is etched in my memory forever). The pair was long enough, fitted me comfortably and didn’t show my panties when I sat down. It was the nicest jeans I’ve ever had and I still have them in my cupboard as proof that comfortable jeans do exist. Unfortunately a decade later they are faded, fraying and have a hole in them. I do wish I’d bought more than one pair that day but unfortunately I cannot return to 2005.
If I could design the perfect pair of jeans, it would be just like this pair. Dark blue, slight flare, flattering and comfortable. It isn’t too much to ask for.
Until then I am very fond of my denim skirts. Not so great in winter but I’ll keep a lookout for the perfect jeans sequel because I know they must be out there. Somewhere.
*Story has been edited for clarity