Pockets: Back pocket size is one of the most important keys to the right look in a pair of jeans. To slim and shape your butt, look for jeans with moderate to large pockets. Shy away from jeans with very small back pockets or no pockets at all. The outline of your front pockets should not show through your jeans; if an outline does show, the jeans are too tight.
Waist: Your jeans should sit comfortably at your waist without digging into your flesh. If you are wearing low-rise jeans, be sure that you sit down while you are trying them on to see if your bottom remains covered.
Leg Width: The standard leg width on a classic pair of jeans is 17 inches. Depending upon the style, the leg width of your jeans will vary from slightly flared to tightly tapered. In general, the flared boot cut is flattering to most body figures.
Hips and Thighs: The fit of your jeans in the hips and thighs depends upon your own personal taste and style. Some women like jeans that hug curves, while other women prefer a relaxed fit. The fit of your jeans is completely up to you, but be careful to avoid extremes.
Hem: To get the best look and longest wear out of your jeans, the hem should create a slight fold as it hits the top of your foot. It should not reveal your ankle or drag on the floor.
Denim Weight: The denim weight of your jeans should not be any less than 12 ounces (a standard pair of Levi's jeans is 12-14 ounces). This weight will cover any bulges if you choose to wear your jeans tight.
The current trend in women's blue jeans is a slim-fit, tapered-leg look. If you feel comfortable with the way you look in this type of jeans, feel free to follow this year's trend. If not, the classic, boot-cut fit is always fashionable and flattering.
