Denim Etiquette

Times have changed, but there are still rules for donning or ditching the denim. Here's your essential Q &A guide.

Can I wear jeans to an upmarket restaurant or bar?
Jeans have become such an expensive commodity that they are accepted pretty much anywhere and considered an acceptable staple of a semi-dressy night out. There are still some fancy restaurants and hotel bars in Europe (think: the Hemingway Bar at the Ritz in Paris) that bar jeans for men, but if you showed up in a hot pair of dark skinnies with heels and a pretty blouse or tailored jacket, no doorman in his right mind would deny you entrance. To avoid an embarrassing situation, be on the safe side by calling beforehand and asking.

Is it okay to wear a dressy pair of jeans to a 21st birthday party or a wedding?
Yes to party, no to wedding. But the 'yes' has conditions: as a sign of respect to your hosts, don't show up in anything ripped, bleached or faded. Opt for navy or black, and make sure they're newly washed and ironed. Then, dress them up with heels, accessories and a nice top. While times have changed, weddings are still a big deal and showing up in jeans is bound to create annoyance. Black tailored pants are fine, but generally a pretty dress (not in black or white) is the way to go.

Can I pair blue jeans with a denim jacket?
The fact that this look has been dubbed the Tennessee Tuxedo should give you your answer. Unless you're a Country and Western singer, this constitutes denim overkill and is never a good look. Instead, pair your denim jacket with cargo pants or wear it over a dress to edgey-up your outfit.

Is acid-wash-a-la-eighties really back in fashion?
Yes – but you won't get away with dredging your 10-year-old jeans out of the attic because the high-waisted look is (happily) not part of this fashion re-run. Yes, there was a half-hearted resurgence a few years ago, but the unforgettable image of Jessica Simpson wearing a pair of uber high-waisted 'mommy jeans' on stage ended the trend – fast. If you're doing acid-wash, you need a low waist and a skinny leg. And because this jean is 'busy', team it with neutral, solid colours like white, black or navy so it doesn't become too much.

Boot-leg or skinny?
Depends. Your aim is always to balance out your body and keep your proportions pleasing. If you're wearing an oversized tee or sweater, skinny jeans are the way to go, but if your top is fitted, a boot-leg balances your silhouette. If your legs are not long and slim, the boot-leg cut adds length, especially when teamed with a heel.

The big brands are so expensive – can I buy cheapies and still look good?
Unfortunately not. When you buy cheap jeans you compromise on fabric quality and cut. Considering how much you're going to be wearing them, it's really worthwhile spending more and buying a pair that fit well and flatter your body type.

I have a flat bum. Do 'bum lifters' help?
Actually, yes. For those of us who are not J-Lo, these jeans add a bit of booty to the bereft. If you suffer from 'table bum', don't wear jeans that have low back-pockets – they make your bum appear even flatter.

What's the deal with super-stretchy denim and/or elasticated waists?
You're on tricky terrain here. For the most part, unless you're Giselle, leave them to pre-schoolers because they are not flattering. Skinnies with a bit of stretch are fine, especially when worn like leggings, but very tight, super-elasticated jeans in a thin fabric can lead to sausage-casing-legs, while an elasticated waist will create a beer-boep out of the tightest tummy. Make sure your jeans have a zip (it flattens the stomach), and while they should be huggy, make sure they're not too tight.

Author: Susan Hayden