Ah, that old sinking feeling — we know it well! The perfectly curve-hugging jeans you slid on this morning are suddenly slipping down your hips, and you’re helpless to do anything but tug ‘em back into the proper position… all day long. Are we doomed forever to be pulling up our pants? Fear not! We’re here to save you from this struggle.
Read on for tips on keeping your jeans from sliding down!
Select Jeans with Less Stretch
Spandex makes your jeans incredibly soft and helps them conform to your shape. However, the more you move, the more the taut fibers in the denim stretch to move with you. Over the course of the day, that stretching loosens up the overall fit of your jeans. To combat this, seek out jeans with a higher percentage of cotton. The denim will initially feel stiffer and heavier but holds its shape well. Plus, this type of fabric typically softens with wear. Look for brands that boast fabric blends with high form retention, like Level 99, DL1961, or J Brand.
Stylist Tip: Don’t want to give up on your favorite stretchy skinnies? Wash and dry them on the hottest settings to constrict the fibers and get them back in shape. Avoid using fabric softener, as its chemicals can break down spandex.
Choose a Higher Rise
High rise jeans are on-trend, and with good reason! They’re figure-flattering and create a sleek silhouette. Because they fit snugly around the smallest part of your waist, they are designed with a smaller waistband. Less material in the waistband means less wiggle room—literally—and this tighter fit will prevent the jeans from sliding down your hips.
Add a Belt
Still pulling up your jeans at the end of a long day? Slip on a belt to improve your denim fit in an instant. Choose one that coordinates with your look; a neutral leather belt in black, charcoal or cognac will become a wardrobe staple. If you’re feeling more adventurous, add texture to a classic tee-and-jeans look with a leopard print belt.
Buy the Right Size
It sounds so obvious, but as any woman who has spent hours questing for the perfect denim can attest, it’s no simple feat. Seek out a pair that fits very snugly but isn’t uncomfortable. They’ll stretch as you move! Remember to try on a few different sizes, rises and silhouettes as sizing can vary greatly among brands and styles. Don’t be too attached to a particular number—the jeans that fit are the ones that are most flattering, no matter what the size on the tag says!
Tuck In Tops
Experiment with tucking in a top to add an extra layer and a little bonus friction between your skin and the jeans. This simple trick can bridge any gapping at your waistline, creating a tighter fit that’s less likely to budge. A bodysuit and a pair of high-waisted skinnies is a match made in fashion heaven, or try a cool-girl front tuck with your favorite tee and boyfriend jeans.
Get Your Waistband Tailored
If you still sense your waistband creeping down over the course of a day, don’t despair—a tailor is your fashion BFF. A couple quick tweaks to your denim waistband can make all the difference in the world.
—Jan S.
Ready for a new pair of jeans that stays put? Schedule a Fix, and ask your Stylist to find your denim soulmate!