I own a pair of Levi 501. No red blooded American fashionista should be without a pair. However I also own 4 pairs of designer jeans. I don’t fall for the celeb thing in choosing jeans or the marketing hype. I use the same formula to buy designer jeans as I would your basic Levi. I look for high quality, cut, fit and wear-ability.

Trendy designer jeans are in ‘cause they fit the female bod so much better than 501’s. Thank fully many now have higher rises and come in a multitude of back end embellishments and styles. Find the pair that make you look your best. Try all that you like on and then some.

Try to look beyond finish and embellishments when choosing designer jeans. If you’re gonna plop down $70-$170 on a pair of discounted designer jeans, you should want the durability of Levi’ along with the fit and design that brings out your best physical attributes.

Jeans have never really fallen off the fashion map. They are always in and are a good fashion investment. But they must fit well and be flattering. So be prepared to try on a bunch.

Here are some tips for a flattering fit.

1. First pick the right shade. The darker the denim, the thinner you will look. You'll look curvier and larger in lighter washes.
2. Look for a waist that buttons or snaps comfortably. You don’t want to be poured into your jeans.
3. For low-rise jeans, make sure they don’t create a tummy "muffin" effect over the top.
4. The crotch/back seam portion should fit comfortably without grabbing.
5. Make sure the jeans are long enough to wear with the kinds of shoes you planned to go with them, including boots or heels. They should reach the top of your footwear in the front.
6. If you have a fuller bottom - Avoid skin-tight styles with any extra embellishment or distressed look on the back. Look for pockets that are simply, proportionally sized and spaced.
7. Styles with a slight flare or ankle embellishment will balance out your curvy figure. Well fitted low-rise jeans can also flatter your bottom.
8. Ample tummy? Choose five-pocket styles or jeans with slash pockets on the diagonal. Look for stretch jeans for some give.
9. Got thighs ? Go for a style that is slimming to your leg. They shouldn’t be too tight fitting. Flares and boot cuts are good because they elongate the leg.
10. Are ya tall & thin? Try the extra low-rise styles to show off your flat tummy and slim hips.
11. Got shorter legs? Slim-fit styles with a slight flare make your legs look longer. Avoid cuffs.

I’ve got some great sources for designer jeans at a discount. Click here to read more.

Catch ya in the dressing room!

Suzanne O'Connor