There is a whole world of difference between jeans that will do and jeans that really fit. Even the most expensive jeans will look baggy and sloppy if they don’t fit well. So instead of reaching for the same old, it’s time to look at what really works.

What is the most common jeans mistake?

The number one most common mistake that men make when buying and wearing jeans is that they are simply too big. And to compensate for the excess jean fabric – they pull their belt tight. This leaves an unsightly fold in the fabric and the constant pulling up of jeans.

Most people don’t want their clothing to be too tight, so they go too far the other way – and then the clothing is far too big. But jeans are more often designed to be lightly fitted – when you get the right size.

When your jeans fit correctly, they will be more comfortable than the baggy, shapeless ones you have been wearing.

Here are two rules to live by when it comes to your jeans:

  • If your jeans are more like leggings, they are too tight (unless they are ultra-skinny fit)
  • If your jeans would fall down without a belt, they are too big

So, what should you do?!

How to find the perfect pair of jeans

Here is a quick list of points that will help you to find the right fit, followed by a few styles that are expected or have special features.

Calves

Stand up in the jeans, and see how much fabric you can pinch – more than a fingertip, and they are too baggy, none at all? Too tight.

Thigh

You can use the same test as above.

Butt

If your butt is restricted in any way, that is too tight; at the same time, you don’t want too much sag. Shapeless jeans aren’t an attractive look. If you can’t lift your knee to your hand or squat (if you normally could) in your jeans, they are too tight.

Waist

While the waist should be self-explanatory, it isn’t. Jeans that need to be belted are not your size, and jeans that roll or ride in any way are also not your size.

Overall fit

Jeans should sit close to your body but not restrictive; an inch or two away from the skin will be flattering. Tapering will be beneficial for most body types too, and the taper will avoid having those bell-bottom-looking jeans that aren’t bell bottoms at all.

It’s all in the cut

Not everyone is built the same, and the above is for a standard pair of straight-leg jeans on the average body. Here are some more specific cuts for different body types.

Relaxed/baggy

A relaxed fit is baggy, with no taper, and often, the term relaxed is phased out and replaced with athletic. You can find more style and texture in these, like rips, additional fabric, stacked jeans, and interesting logos or embroidery. Great for larger thighs.

Athletic

Guys who wouldn’t dream of skipping leg day or are blessed with wider set legs will enjoy athletic cuts, as they have more room across the butt and thighs.

Boot cut

Although some people can pull these off, boot-cut jeans are better left on the rack.

Skinny fit

The real skinny fit jeans suit men who have a slimmer build, although you should always wear what you want; skinny jeans were created with slim legs in mind.

Straight fit

The straight-fit jean, when you get a good pair, is flattering for everyone. However, they suit the average Joe best and give a little bit of room in the calves, thighs, and butt.

Tapered

Tapered jeans are great for guys who have some butt and some tight muscles but not wide calves; the tapered look means there are no awkward bell bottoms. Instead, it is a great cut.

Keep in mind that every brand will have its own twist on the cuts and its own sizing. When shopping in person, grab one size up and down from what you buy – try them all on. If none of them fit well, change the style.