Every collegiate runway has its own quirks. At University of Wisconsin-Madison, misplaced Coasties parade around in fur boots and halter tops. The California State Maritime Academy still requires uniforms. But from the preppy slobs of our alma mater to southern belles of UNC, there is one clothing item that unites us all: the ever-present denim.
I’ve always been more of a skirts and dresses kind of girl. (When I was five, I declared the Disney Princesses as my permanent fashion muses. It’s a fun and frilly curse, and it hasn’t worn off.) But halfway through college, even I surrendered to the totalitarian blue jean that governs university life.
I could sit here and rattle off the basic designer brands: Seven for all Mankind, True Religion, Joe’s Jeans and Citizens. We have them, we love them and we wear them every day. However, understanding high fashion requires obtaining brand information from sources other than logos on your classmates’ butts. If we’re going to conform, we might as well do it as creatively as possible. Here’s the A-List of denim looks and the brands that best portray them:
Boyfriend: The most current denim obsession, these easygoing jeans are made best by simple brands like Cheap Monday and Urban Outfitters. While curveless women rock this slouchy style with sheer tank tops and Keds, I prefer to emasculate the look with cuffed bottoms and a pair of heels.
Colorful: My latest fascinations are the American Apparel Unisex Slim Slacks. They sell for less than $80 and feature every wearable color under the sun. If your senses are bold, go for Poppy and Electric Purple. If you’re hesitant about unconventional hues, try Asphault or Royal Blue. Maintaining the blue and grey palate of traditional jeans will tone down the high wattage of new colors.
Skinny and Sexy: With the loose, flowy tops of Spring 2009, skinny jeans are a necessary indulgence. Because they stretch so quickly during wear, skinnies should fit almost too tightly in the store. While J Brand comes highly recommended, I’ve heard all body shapes raving about skinny jeans from Old Navy. This inexpensive venue will help you avoid splurging on pants that will become next season’s drawer liners.
Relaxed: If you prefer standard blue jeans with straight legs and boot cut bottoms, at least bring a new brand into the mix. Ernest Sewn and Paper Denim & Cloth are two labels that bring classic jeans to a high fashion level. Once you understand the sizing, you’ll absolutely love the fit. For Ernest, the sizes run in accordance with your waist measurement in inches. PD&C may make this claim, but be prepared to buy two or three sizes bigger than your measurement. Online shopping is a no-no in this category.
Jeans are long lasting purchases, so do your research and take time before buying. Visit a fitting website like zafu.com or ask employees in high-end retail stores for advice on obtaining the perfect fit for you. A few more brands I love: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Rag & Bone, Stella McCartney and Acne Jeans. There are thousands of denim labels, and experimenting with them is all the fun. While I’d love to see more dresses and skirts (so as to appease my Cinderella senses), I will settle for spotting some new denim looks on our collegiate runway.
You’re Beautiful,
Alise
Fashion is architecture: it is a matter of proportions.
— Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel