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I'm petite and a midsize girlie, and shopping for jeans has always been a challenge. In case you're wondering, midsize falls in between sizes US 10 to US 16. I'm a size 12, and I normally pick pants with a 28 to 29-inch waistline. In European sizing, I choose sizes 40 to 42.
There are instances when the pants looked promising on the rack, but when I try them on, they make my body shape appear odd. I've already come to terms with my size, and I promised myself to never let a piece of clothing question my weight. So, when I encounter an unflattering pair of jeans, I put it back and move on to the next option. I ask myself a set of questions whenever I wear jeans to help me decide if I should purchase or skip.
Questions to ask before shopping for a pair of jeans, according to a midsize girlie
I'm a certified denim addict—I've got around 30 pairs in my closet. It's excessive, and I'm slowly learning to refine my wardrobe. I realized that I gravitate toward certain pairs and neglect the rest. I think I only wore five pairs of jeans I own.
Because of my fashion ~epiphany~ I had to be more discerning when shopping for jeans. Being a midsize girlie adds a layer of challenge. I had this trial-and-error process of finding the One True Pair for my size 12 body. I came up with a list of non-negotiables when shopping for jeans. My tummy, puson, and thighs should never feel restricted.
Here are the usual ~guide~ questions I ask myself when I purchase denim pants are the following:
- Will the jeans style drown my frame?
- Will the pair restrict my tummy and puson? (We don't want that!)
- Will it lift my booty?
- Will it pair well with my existing clothes?
- Will it make me feel good?
RELATED: We're *Obsessed* With This Local Fashion Brand That Carries XS To 6XL Sizes
So far, this set of questions has helped me decide which jeans to buy.
Denim Outfit Ideas, As Seen On Our Favorite Midsize Fashion Content Creators
It helps when you see outfit ideas from people who come close to your body shape. Here are my two favorite content creators who feature midsize fashion.
Marina Torres: tube top + knitted cardigan + straight cut denim + burgundy handbag + black sandals
Marina Torres chose a high-waist straight-cut pair, a foolproof denim style for girls with curves.
Alyssa Lenore: Black blazer + black top + relaxed jeans + sneakers + shoulder bag
You can never go wrong with a pair of relaxed jeans.
Holly Frances: White baby tee + dark wash cargo jeans + derby shoes
If you're wearing wide-legged or baggy jeans, pair them with a body-hugging top for balance and a low-key sexy touch.
The Most Flattering Jeans For Midsize Girlies
Here are some styles that will embrace your curves.
H&M Flared High Cropped Jeans, P1,990
When I see the word "cropped," I know that I won't need to have the length shortened. This pair has a bit of stretch and a subtle flared shape—it has a guaranteed flattering fit!
Zara Marine Straight Jeans, P2,595
This pair is my ride-or-die. It's comfortable, supports the tummy, and lifts the booty! I wear these jeans almost every week, but most especially on shoots or ~long~ days.
Love, Bonito Elsie Denim Straight Leg Jeans, P2,890
The dark wash and tailored look make these pants perfect for more elegant and polished outfits. Turn on your notifs so you'll know when this pair will restock.
Additional Jeans Shopping Advice For Midsize Girls
Shop in the men's section!
For those who are partial to straight-cut, bootleg, and baggy jeans, the men's section is a great place to find a pair. It's a bit unconventional since the designs don't cater to a woman's body shape, but the boxy style of men's pants is perfect for nailing the androgynous aesthetic.
READ ALSO: I Swear, You Need To Try This *Life-Changing* Jeans Shopping Hack
Look for jeans with stretchy material.
Denim fabric with a lil bit of stretch will hug your curves in the right places. It is the easiest hack to look sexy in jeans!
Don't obsess over size labels.
Brands have different size guides and even inaccurate sizing. In some, you may be a size 29, but in other retailers, you'll fall under a size 27, or maybe get a size 30 for a better fit. Those are just numbers. What's important is if the pair looks flattering on your body and if you feel good in them!
Shop for the body you have now.
Your clothes should fit your body, not the other way around. It's normal to look back at your previous body. However, your shopping experience should focus on the size you are right now. (Plus, this exercise is better for your mental well-being.) Our weight and size fluctuate depending on the time of the month and bloating happens. Remember to be kind to yourself whenever in the fitting room. It's not you; it's the clothes.
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