Fittingly yours: Jean shopping in Bangalore

Everyone, from scrawny teens to bulging dames, loves slipping into a pair of jeans. It drapes a casual fashion statement with a lot of attitude and adds that extra spunk to a mundane outfit. Once the utility garment of the plebeian workforce, denims are now the everyday wear of people all over the world.

Shopping for jeans, however, is not easy. In fact, it can well be a nightmare if you don’t know what you’re looking for, as nothing spells disaster like a pair of ill-fitting jeans.

Tips for a leaner look

· Pick up denims with a bit of stretch for better comfort and fit.

· Boot-cut and flared jeans are ideal for most women.

· For the leaner look, choose ultra-tapered jeans.

· Widely-spaced and bejewelled back pockets are an absolute no-no.

Jean guide: Body types and jeans

· Slim body types: This kind of frame fits into any variety. Sport a low-rise or boot-cut stretch.

· Curvy body types: Pick up a wide boot-cut silhouette in dark colours like black and navy for that slim look.

· Athletic body types: Low-rise jeans with a contoured waistband, boot-cuts and tapered jeans will work well.

· Full-figured body types: Choose a traditional five-pocket jean that isn’t too body-hugging. Opt for boot-cuts as they balance a fuller figure and always pick up dark shades.

For the brand-conscious, the city-shops stock several high-end brands like Lee, Levis, Wrangler and Pepe. Alternatively, for those who aren’t dictated by big names, there is a range of mid-budget jeans that are equally popular. Jean Joint on Commercial Street is a popular store that houses several non-brands, cater to larger sizes and have every conceivable fit possible. Jealous Jeans is another favourite haunt. Bossini that has now become a brand in its own right too stocks that perfect pair.

Remember in the case of jeans it's shape and not size that matters and, most importantly, those shapes that accentuate the positives and deflect the negatives.

Happy jean shopping!