High On The Rise: High-Waisted Jeans Are Finally Back!

Good morning!

They’re finally here.

After years of women exposing their behinds (TMI!), and even worse, that should-never-be-seen “whale tail” peeking out of their low-rise bottoms (that’s a “Thong” in case you’re wondering:), the high-rise jean has finally made a comeback.

Are you as excited as I am?! The designers tempted us awhile back with a decent attempt at a medium-rise, but in my opinion they were still too low for the average girl. We had to bring back the good ‘ol days of the 70’s/80’s styles to get our waistbands back up and back into our lives, and so far I’m thinking this revisit may be worth it. Even if you’re thinking, “Hey I grew up in those times, been there, done that,” I’m pretty sure you’ll be happy the high-rise is back.

So…why am I so excited? Unless you’re 20 something or your work-out is a daily Pilates routine, most women end up with the dreaded muffin-top spilling out over their jeans (+ Other pants and skirts too!). Add a fitted top, one that isn’t even that tight, and you’ll see rolls of skin that you thought only you knew about. No matter how old you are, it isn’t a pretty site, and thankfully we can now remedy it.

My intuition told me that once the crop top became a trend that was here to stay for awhile, the rise of the pant waist was soon to come. After all, unless you’re bikini clad, living a beachy lifestyle on an island, for most of us, a one or two inch peek of our tummy is about all we can and want to expose on the mainland. A flash of skin is much more alluring, and attractive on most, believe me, than showing the whole belly.

Yes, I won’t argue with you that a lower rise can be super comfortable, just letting it all hang out, but that’s the problem, it all hangs out. A higher rise can hide a multitude of sins, just by tucking it all in and away! And believe me, they are very flattering and comfortable. Which brings me to today’s topic.

I received quite a few responses from my last newsletter. One of the questions was from my client Louisa. This is what she asked:

Hi Michelle,

I need to find high waist jeans.  I don’t get out to shop much – what brands are making these now (they are in stores)?  I need to do a quick mission shop to pick up a pair.

Thanks!

Louisa

Thanks, Louisa for your question! Thankfully there are more high-rise/high-waisted jeans available this season than ever before. Although a high-rise jean will hit differently on every woman, and mean something different to every brand, a rise that is considered high, usually starts about 2” below your belly button, a good rise for a comfortable jean, all the way up to your belly button, and a smidgeon above. Some brands call the latter a “Super high-rise.” If you want to wear a crop top that hits above your belly button, the best pant rise will be one that covers your belly button.

Here’s a list of some of my favorites. Note: There are many more high-rise skinny jeans than anything else but as this high -rise trend continues, more straight legged and flared jeans and other pants will emerge.

1. NYDJ – This brand is noted for their higher rises. On the downside, they can look a bit dowdy. However, they’ve gotten hipper with different washes and finishes. You’ll either love ‘em or hate ’em, but don’t say no until you’ve tried them on. You might be pleasantly surprised. Try one size down from your normal size.
2. Madewell  – “Flea Market” high-rise flare
3. 7 For All Mankind – Look for specific styles
4. Tommy Hilfiger – Look for specific styles
5. Michael Kors – Look for specific styles
6. Paige Premium Denim – “Transcend – Hoxton” high-rise skinny, “Transcend – Hidden Hills” high-rise straight, “Transcend -Canyon” high-rise bell
7. AG Jeans – “Farrah” high-rise skinny, “Janis” high-rise flare
8. Levi’s – 512 high-rise with tummy control
9. Jag Jeans – Nora pull-on – super comfy with tummy control.
10. Ralph Lauren – Look for specific styles.
11.   Kut From Kloth – “Natalie” high-rise bootcut
12. Treasure and Bond – high-rise flare
13. Citizens of Humanity – “Rocket” high-rise skinny, “Fleetwood” high-rise flare
14. James Jeans – high-rise straight leg
15. Rag & Bone – high-rise skinny

1. Are they flattering to your Body-Type? Not all styles of jeans work with all Body-Types. Find the style(s) that highlight what you want to show off, and conceal what you don’t.
2. Look at them on you from all angles. Are they baggy anywhere? Too tight? They shouldn’t be too loose – they should fit tight across your butt and comfortable in the thigh area with no horizontal creases under the butt (Too baggy) or horizontal lines across the thighs (Too tight)
3. Are they comfortable? Move in them! Bend over, sit, cross your legs. Make sure that nothing is spilling out, slipping down, or the jeans are too restrictive for your needs. Really, what is the point of wearing jeans if they aren’t comfy?
4. Are you buying them for work or play? Some “finishes,” “washes” and styles are not appropriate for work.
5. What type of shoes will you be wearing? Sometimes it is easiest to just have the store you bought them at to hem them and send them (to you), otherwise you might not ever take the time to get them hemmed.

If you’re geeking out on high-waisted jeans, 🙂 don’t worry, your eye will eventually adjust. Happy Shopping!

Now, it’s your turn. I’d love to hear from you. Do you plan to wear high-waisted jeans? What brand is your fave? Your insights and inspiration are appreciated so please share your stories in the comments below.

Blog me.

Love,

~Michelle