One of the hottest looks right now is denim. And I mean everything is denim...
Now, I know what you’re thinking… so what? I mean have we ever not worn our jeans or denim jackets? But hear me out.. when I say EVERYTHING, I mean EVERYTHING is denim. Not so much double denim but quadruple, but how much is too much? The answer is simple, there is NEVER too much.
Women’s bodies and traditional denim do not mix – it’s very much round peg square hole syndrome. Denim was devised primarily as hardwearing workwear for men. And it did the job perfectly, it was hardy, heavy and dense, with no give.
Herein lies the problem. If we introduce this traditional denim fabric to the soft curves of the majority of female figures, it point blank does not work.
It’s a bit like trying to wrap a football in stiff wrapping paper. Bits stick out awkwardly and it ends up looking lumpy and messy. If you drape a footie in a soft fabric (can you tell I have 2 football crazy sons and spend a lot of time freezing my bits off next to pitches around Cheshire?!) then the fabric drapes over the curves and it hugs to the shape of the ball.
Happily, denim has come a long way and we are now awash with added stretch, and a huge selections of weights and washes.
My top tip is to pay attention to the way the slub in the fabric runs. Denim with a vertical slub (the flecks running through the material) will elongate and slim, whereas a horizonal slub will draw attention across the body making it appear shorter and wider.
Here are my top picks from the high street available right now!
This Zara Bomber is a relaxed take on the traditional denim jacket and brings this look bang up to date. The collarless style is flattering and the pockets being placed lower make it better for those with a larger bust. Twin with the matching combats or a nice pair of linens for a classic summer look.
Gone are the 90s denim minis, this season’s denim is long. This Mango combo can be worn together or pop a classic white t-shirt and trainers with the skirt for a super cool daytime look. And waistcoats? Yes please for all you hourglass girls out there! The deep v and nipped in waist will be super flattering for anyone wanting to show off a waist, whatever size you are wearing.
I absolutely LOVE the look for denim shorts and envy all those women who truly rock them. But for me I find them so uncomfortable! Always riding up, difficult to sit down in and the thigh overhang have me running for the hills. However, I’ve spotted these beauties from Fat Face at Marks & Sparks and the denim mix lightweight fabric with, oh yes… stretch waistband, gives you all of the look without any of the discomfort. Chuck them with a vest and oversized flowing shirt for super summer chic.
Denim sundresses are perfect this season, they are everywhere and in a lovely soft fabric, this River Island option is an absolute winner. They make the perfect base for an outfit, I love to add a neutral beige sandal and knitted jacket for those chilly evenings.
Whatever you pick, its clear to see that denim is here to stay, so lets get out of our comfort zones and think beyond the jeans.
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