Jeans have been a part of wardrobe basics for men and women for many years. We work in them, play in them, party in them – they have in many ways become the most important item in our wardrobe. That probably explains the ever-increasing options now available and, if you are like me, the piles of new shades and styles that face you in the shops today are pretty daunting.

From comfort fit to super skinny

Long gone are the days when jeans were simply straight or bootcut. The full range from comfort fit across to super skinny has me heading to the changing room piled high with alternatives – or more likely giving up and buying a t-shirt instead!

The truth is that jeans hug the figure and they highlight hips, waists, thighs, calves and ankles, bumps and bulges too. So in an effort to make the task of buying jeans that suit you easier for all, I have put together a few tips to help you find your best fit.

Balance, balance, balance – your body shape dictates the fit and leg width so make sure you know yours.

For those who are plus sized remember that ease is important for you and to choose your jeans fabric carefully – darker colours are best and stick to straight or narrow leg (but not too tight). Go for flat fronted styles, taking care that the pockets don’t bulge. If you are curvy then steer clear of tapered styles and choose low rise flare or trouser styles instead.

Leg cuffs are shortening

The wider the leg the shorter your legs will look. Men shorter than 5’6” and women shorter than 5’3” will look their best in slim-fit or straight cuts, which will make their legs look longer. Avoid wide fitting flares and beware – leg cuffs are shortening too.

On the other hand, the taller you are the more width you can add, so when those bell-bottoms sneak back into fashion they will look great on you. For now bootcut or flare is your best style, although skinny jeans with flats are great too.

An easy fit on the hip will work well for most body shapes. High waists do work as leg lengtheners and are great for fashion conscious teens, but for the more mature – think Simon Cowell!

The darker the colour, the smarter they look

And if you think jeans cannot look smart then think again. The darker the colour, the smarter they look, so where the occasion allows you’ll find dark indigo straight and well-fitting jeans can easily look as good as smart trousers or chinos. Faded and torn jeans on the other hand are best left for less formal occasions.

Finally, why not add a bit of your own personality to your jeans style. This is where faded and torn styles come into play and, if you like sparkles, go for it!