The #1 Thing to Consider When Shopping for Jeans

Shopping for jeans is something that it's easy to have a love-hate relationship with. The prospect of finding a perfect new pair of jeans is exciting, but when faced with so many options of so many different styles, washes, and brands to choose from, overwhelming doesn't begin to describe the shopping experience. And not to add yet another thing to that list, but there's something else that we think is the number one thing to consider when shopping for jeans: types of denim.

The comfort, fit, and look of a pair of jeans has so much to do with the fabric that they're made of (i.e., 100% cotton, stretch, raw denim, etc.) You may already have a favorite without even knowing. And because this is such an important factor in your denim shopping experience, we reached out to the expert on the subject: Levi's. Chief Product Officer Karyn Hillman answered all our questions about the types of denim that every woman needs, and we now feel very well-informed. Keep scrolling to benefit from Hillman's expertise (and shop stylish jeans, naturally).

What are the essential types of denim that women should have in their closets?

It depends on one's preferences for comfort and fit, but an ideal closet of jeans should encompass a range of stretch options. Jeans with little or no stretch like our 501 Skinnies are great for the classic "Levi's" look when worn tight and high on the waist or in a slouchy boyfriend fit. Jeans with high elasticity and innovative stretch properties that lift, hold, and keep their shape all day like our Mile High Super Skinnies are as comfortable as they are flattering.

Shop the Styles

Is there a certain type of denim that provides the best fit?

Fit and fabric go hand in hand when creating an amazing pair of jeans. For example, denim with mid to high elasticity molds to the body while lifting and holding, making skinny jeans crazy flattering for people of all shapes and sizes. Our Mile High Super Skinny Jeans come in Hyperstretch denim, a fabric with innovative stretch fibers that sculpt your body yet feel like your most comfortable leggings without bagging out. In iconic denim fits like our 501s and Wedgie Jeans, low stretch and non-stretch provide the best fit because the fabric has more structure, giving curves an extra boost. 

Shop the Styles

What's the best denim fabric for the spring and summer? What about fall and winter?

This spring and summer, we are offering our best-selling 711 Skinny Jeans in stretch denim with Coolmax. Coolmax has moisture-wicking properties, so you can rock your favorite skinnies while keeping you comfortable in warmer conditions. In fall and winter, we make 711s with special fibers that trap heat and keep you warm. We also offer 710 Super Skinny Jeans with denim that's brushed on the inside, so you feel cozy and look cute.

Shop the Styles

Now, find out what shoes to wear with straight-leg jeans.

Opening Image: Splash News