Ask Belle: Straight Leg Jeans for Summer

Belle,

Any recommendations of a good pair of white/colored jeans that are *not* skinny but straight leg? The skinny really doesn’t go down well with my frame and I can’t find too  many options for white/colored jeans – any suggestions?

Thanks!! RS

For many ladies, a straight leg jean is more flattering than a skinny with a similar slim look.  (Especially as skinny jeans become increasingly snug.)  Also, when you’re talking about white or light-colored denim, straight leg jeans are more forgiving.

AG Harper Straight Leg Jeans ($172) // NYDJ Samantha Straight Leg Jeans ($110) // Cookie Johnson Faith Jeans ($98) // Talbot’s Slimming Ankle Jeans ($79)

Blue Denim. AG makes my favorite jeans.  They’re very well made and comfortable.  If you’re looking for an affordable option, Gap’s Real Straight Jeans and Mavi Jeans Molly style are both good options. Plus-size? Try Lucky Brand.

Frankly, I think that if you’re going to wear jeans to work, straight legs or a slim bootcut are your best option.  Some skinny jean styles are fine, but if you work in a professional office, please leave your jeggings at home.

Black. My black jeans are easily my favorite thing in my closet.  They go with everything, look a bit more dressed up than blue denim, and are super flattering.  (Bless the slimming effect of black.)  These NYDJ jeans are a great option.  I also like the look of these under-$50 Levi’s 505s.  Plus-size?  NYDJ has you covered as well.

Not feeling black jeans for summer?  Try grey instead.  I adore these Jones New York jeans.

White.  White denim is perfect for summer.  I wear mine whenever I travel or when I’m going to be out after sunset.  And I love them for events that require me to sit inside a freezing-cold air-conditioned building.  They look summery, but keep you warm.

Cookie Johnson makes functional, flattering jeans for every figure.  They also come in at a reasonable price point.  I also like Paige Skyline jeans in white.  Or if you need something under-$50, try these Charter Club jeans.  Plus-size?  These Kors jeans have a great look to them.

Colored. Colorful denim is a great option when you need to bring a little pop to your wardrobe.  Wear them with a white eyelet top or striped tee to inject some life into basic pieces.  Talbots carries a few colored styles, but if you want selection, NYDJ offers their Clarissa jean in 16 colors.  Plus-size? Talbot’s offers jeans in plus and plus-petite sizes.