Finding that perfect pair of jeans in India is mostly trial and error and can even mean several changing room attempts. Whether you happen to be strolling through a high-end mall in Mumbai or exploring the local shops of Bangalore, the huge number of choices may end up overwhelming you. Either you could choose raw denim because of its toughness or just enjoy stretch fabrics for the comfort. When purchasing wisely, it helps if you know well the characteristics of fit, fabric, and wash. This is your complete guide to the art of denim shopping.
Understanding the Fit
Fit is the single most important factor when it comes to a pair of jeans. Unlike in most clothing categories, manufacturers take into account the body shape of their consumers and target different body types. Also, finding the right jeans can totally transform your figure.
- Slim Fit: They trace the form of your legs but don’t fit like a second skin. Heels option for men and women, as they can be dressed up or down and still look sharp on the weekends.
- Skinny Fit: Tight from the waist down to the ankle, skinny jeans are popular among the younger generation. They work best if you have a leaner frame.
- Straight Fit: A timeless piece that is always fashionable. These pants are even in width all the way from the hip to the hem. They suit best those who prioritize comfortable dressing over fashionable ones.
- Relaxed or Wide-Leg: Because of the growing popularity of vintage fashion, very loose cuts have made a comeback in style. With lots of space from the thighs to the feet, such cuts are very suitable for the hot and sticky climate of India.
The Science of Fabric
You can figure out quite a bit about how long jeans will last and how comfortable they will be by their weight and fabric composition from the first time you handle them.
Initially, jeans were made from pure cotton denim. They are indeed very durable, and they get better with age; however, it can be quite a stretch to wear them at first. Today, nearly all lifestyle brands in India are offering ‘stretch denim,’ which has a small amount of elastane or Lycra mixed in. If you are someone who is continuously doing different activities, then a mix with a 2 to 3 percent stretch would be ideal for you.
Apart from the fabric blend, you should also consider the denim weight. For Indian summers, ‘lightweight’ denim (approximately 8 to 10 ounces) would be ideal. ‘Heavyweight’ denim (more than 14 ounces) can be a perfect choice not only for winter months in the North but also for those who want to get the genuine, rough touch.
Decoding the Wash
The “wash” is basically what the jeans go through to give them a certain colour or texture. And that will affect the overall look of your outfit.
- Raw or Dry Denim: These have no wash, and the colour is a very dark indigo. They will be very stiff in the beginning, and with the fading will follow the shape of your body. They are perfect if you want a classy, “dark” style.
- Stone Wash: The method utilizes pumice stones to fade the jeans and make them look well-used and comfortable. The look is synonymous with casual wear.
- Acid Wash: For a hardcore 80s look, acid wash consists of high-contrast designs. It is a very daring option as one cannot go unnoticed.
- Distressed: These jeans are ripped and frayed in different parts in the factory. While it is a fashionable thing to do, it is best to make sure that the distressing is not a forced one.
Final Shopping Tips
First, don’t forget to ask the sales assistant what kind of ‘rise’ the jeans have before you pay. If you ask me, high-rise jeans will definitely be a perfect choice for you if you usually wear tops that can be tucked in. Meanwhile, mid-rise jeans are actually considered the most flattering style for nearly all body shapes.
And you know what? It’s a great idea to pay attention to the seams and the zippers, so you can be sure that the jeans will be quite durable too.
In general, great jeans are those that complement you and help you feel good about yourself. Besides the perfect fit, choosing a fabric that fits the season and a wash that shows your personality are also very important. This is what shopping for reliable jeans should be all about. Go ahead and enjoy your shopping!
