Denim duality is an enduring truth of fashion. The perennial battle between flared and skinny cuts never seems to settle. Both jeans styles have their advocates and detractors, and both serve different functions in an ensemble, adding up to a distinct aesthetic statement. The question is – flared vs skinny: which jeans style suits you best? To answer this query, we need to examine the merits of each style and consider the body types they flatter most.

Flared Jeans: A Blast from the Past

Channeling the ‘70s disco chic, the flare jeans have made a triumphant return to the mainstream fashion domain. They are characterized by a snug fit around the waist and thighs, which then widens towards the calves, culminating in a drama-infused flare from the knee downward.

Benefits of Flared Jeans

Flared jeans give a balanced silhouette, adding a little volume to the lower part of your body while accentuating your best assets. They’re great for those with a fuller figure because they help in creating a more proportionate look. A slight flare complements wider hip measurements by maintaining a visual symmetry from hip to hem. People with an athletic or rectangular shape can also enjoy the benefits of flare jeans, as they create curves, adding feminine allure to a straighter body type.

Styling Flared Jeans

Flared jeans are versatile and blend well with various styles. For a relaxed look, pair them with a loose sweater or a simple T-shirt. To channel luxe vibes, fuse them with a structured blazer or a silk blouse. High-heeled boots or wedges will reinforce the elongating power of flared jeans, while a pair of sneakers will give a more relaxed, down-to-earth vibe. Just remember, if you go for a high-waisted style, it’s best to choose a top that you can tuck in to highlight your waist and maintain the overall balance.

Skinny Jeans: An Evergreen Classic

Skinny jeans, on the other hand, have been the go-to trend for the past decade. These slenderizing trousers sit tightly against your legs, hugging your natural curves from waist to ankle.

Benefits of Skinny Jeans

This style is particularly flattering on petite figures because it elongates the legs and creates an illusion of height. Moreover, they also work well for the apple or inverted triangle body shape, as they highlight the legs and balance the broader shoulders and chest.

However, it’s worth noting that skinny jeans are not biased towards one body type. They’re versatile enough to complement a range of shapes and sizes, provided you feel confident and comfortable in them.

Styling Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans are a wardrobe staple that can, without doubt, be branded a fashion chameleon. You can wear them with almost anything — from oversized sweaters to fitted blouses and everything in between. Balance their snug effect with a flowing tunic or an oversized blazer for a casual look or take a more formal route by pairing with a crisp white shirt or a tailored jacket.

flare and skinny jeans. photo by lightfield studios via adobe

Conclusion: Flared or Skinny?

So, between flared vs. skinny jeans, which should you go for? The answer lies in understanding your body type and selecting accordingly. However, at the end of the day, comfort plays a crucial factor. Fashion should never compromise on it. Therefore, the jeans style that suits you best is really the one you feel most fabulous in.

Remember, both flared and skinny jeans have their unique virtues and both can be incredibly stylish. Fashion is a personal statement, not a one-style-fits-all proposition. So, whatever your choice, embrace it, own it, and strut it with confidence. After all, the best fashion accessory is a beaming smile and an air of confidence!