Figure Flattery: The 5 Golden Rules of Jean Shopping

Learning what works for your body and how to best flatter your figure starts with finding a perfect pair of jeans. If your jeans don€™t fit right, your entire outfit will be thrown off - a lesson I learned the hard way via cringe-inducing old pictures. While everyone's body is different, there are some general rules EVERYBODY should heed before embarking on a jean-shopping excursion. Read on for some of my best tips for finding the perfect fit and how to wear different jean shapes the RIGHT way.

1. Fit It
Never EVER buy jeans that are too tight because this will inevitably cause you to spill over the sides. I know that fitting into a small size - usually by any means necessary - can feel rewarding, but seriously, buying a small size just for the sake of it is NOT worth it. HOWEVER, if the jeans are made of stretchy material, then they WILL give, so it€™s okay if they€™re a little - I said LITTLE - snug when you try them on. And watch the length. It makes a world of difference when it comes to looking chic vs. sloppy. Remember, we have brooms to sweep the floor, so we don't need your jeans to do it!
My Pick For Best Fit: Rock & Republic Jeans- they have the perfect amount of stretch which allows them to mold perfectly to your form unlike most stretch jeans which need to be shrunk in the wash after the first wear.
Rock & Republic Cosbie Classic Jeans, $222

2. The Skinny On Skinnies
Yes, this style is meant to be fitted; however, the jeans should not look like they were painted on. They shouldn€™t be baggy, but should be roomy enough to showcase your curves comfortably.
My Pick For Best Skinnies: J Brand Skinny jeans- they're ULTRA flattering and really comfortable as well.
J Brand 10" Lowrise Skinny Jeans, $158

3. Get Waisted
Nothing defines the waist and elongates your gams better than this hot new style. The waist should be cinched, but these jeans are not meant to be a new version of the corset, so make sure you can still breathe in them. This look is all about showcasing those curves, especially the derrière, so when shopping, make sure you get a good look at the rear view and really like what you see.
My Pick For Best Booty Boost: Joe's Jeans- high-waisted styles are super sexy and flatter bums of all shapes and sizes.
Joe's Jeans High Waist Trouser, $174

4. Rule of Thumb
My rule of thumb when it comes to jeans is the €˜thumb rule.€™ I always make sure I can slide my thumb all the way around the waist-line easily. If you struggle at all and have to force your hand to budge, those jeans are too tight. If your thumb glides all the way around a little too easily and you can fit your whole hand in there, definitely get the size below.

5. The Crack Rule
The €˜crack-rule€™ (I know, it€™s not exactly the most sophisticated title) is another important one to follow. When you€™re in the dressing room, squat down and see if your thong or butt crack comes out to say hello. If it does, those jeans are either too low cut or too big on you and it€™s time to try on a new pair! You should feel comfortable and confident in your jeans and that is just impossible if you€™re on thong/butt crack alert all night. Jeans should cover your goods and allow you to bend over without checking to see if anyone is standing behind you.