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Best Jeans for Mature Women

Middle-aged women are forgotten about by retailers. I offer help with clothing choices, skincare, and healthy eating for the mature woman.

Best Jeans for Mature Women

Best Jeans for Mature Women

Which Jeans Suit Older Women

Ladies, do you ever wonder if you're too old to wear jeans? I must admit the thought has crossed my mind as well, but then I think, 'Heck no, I love wearing jeans!'.
The doubt often starts when we see a photo or video of ourselves then a reality check sets in. We tend not to see a problem area on our bodies as the changes to our shape are gradual and creep up on us over the years. So what can we do about it if we refuse to give up wearing jeans? It isn't that we're too old to wear them; we need to adjust the style to suit our changing body shape because the design that once worked for us may not be the right cut for us now.


Never before have there been so many styles, makes, and adornments to jeans. If the original makers of jeans, Levi Strauss and his partner Jacob Davis, could see what has become of their initial idea, I think they would shake their heads in disbelief. The robust and reinforced pair of work pants for the Californian gold miners have become a fashion statement often sold with holes and rips in them and cost more than a miner would have earned in a month panning for gold!

How to Get the Perfect Fitting Jeans

Unlike men, who buy jeans solely by the waist and leg measurement, women need more information. This might work if we were all in the same proportions but think about the women you know; how many are shaped the same? Not that many, I suspect. You may wear the same size as your friend, but everyone has lumps and bumps in different areas. Throw in personal taste, and you can see that we need more options to find our ideal pair of jeans. For some women, choosing jeans is a minefield, with all the new terminology, jargon, and some might say utter nonsense. My goal with this article is to clarify some of the confusion surrounding jeans. I have contacted my nephew, who works at a large fashion house in San Francisco, for the latest information.


To get the correct fit, you need to look at the waist rise, the upper leg, and the lower leg. Using these three, you'll be able to select the perfect pair of jeans whether you're 35 or 95 years old or somewhere in between.


Times have changed since you first starting wearing jeans. Then, it's likely there was one waist height or 'rise' as it's now called. Now, it's possible to walk into a store and find jeans with a waist rise anywhere from the navel to ones that barely cover the pubic hairline.

Short Waist, Long Waist or Normal?

When buying jeans, we may think about our hips' shape, condition of our abs, or length of our legs, but there is more to it than that. Knowing if you have a short or long waist is a factor to consider when choosing a pair of jeans. Here is how to determine which category you fall into.

  • Measure the distance from your armpit (A) to your natural waist (W).
  • Then measure from your waist (W) to your bottom of your buttocks (B).

If the distance from armpit to waist is less than the distance from your waist to buttocks, then you have a short waist. Sometimes this is called a high waist.

If the measurement is longer, you have a long waist or sometimes referred to as a low waist.

Here's the equation:

  • B=buttock
  • W=waist
  • A= armpit
  • A/W>W/B= Low waist or long waist
  • W/B>A/W= High Waist or short waist
  • W/B=A/W= Balanced or regular waist

Now that you know this, you are in a better position to select a pair of jeans that will suit you.

For women with a short waist, stay away from high-rise jeans. The visual effect is that your jeans begin in your armpits, not the look we want. The fact that our breasts are also lower makes for a bad combination. On a positive note, having a short waist generally means your legs are longer or at least appear longer. Opt for jeans that are a normal or a low rise as this will lengthen the torso's look, creating a visual illusion that the top and bottom are equal.

For those who have a low waist selecting a pair of jeans with a higher rise will give the illusion that your legs are longer.

For those whose measurements were equal, you can wear either high or low-rise jeans depending on your preference and the overall look you're trying to achieve.

Caution

Although one can choose a pair of jeans with a low rise, caution should be exercised, because unless you are the queen of sit ups or planks at the gym, these should be left for the younger ladies, in my opinion. If you have a mummy tummy, or love indulging in bakery goodies leave these for the 0 size models. Unless you have a flat stomach, low-rise jeans allow the skin on the abdomen to flop unceremoniously over the top of the jeans resulting in what is often called a muffin top.

Jean Fits Demystified

The jargon surrounding the fit of jeans is confusing. Let's clarify the meaning of some of the terminology. Remember, all manufacturers do not classify their jeans the same.

Read More From Bellatory

  • Jeggings: A relatively new term that is a combination of jeans and leggings. Jeggings are just leggings made to look like denim jeans. If you are a fan of leggings, then maybe these are the ones for you. Unless you have a firm tush and flat abs, opt for a hip-length top such as a free-flowing blouse or longer style t-shirt. If the stiffness and thickness of denim have kept you from wearing jeans, try jeggings.
  • Skinny: These are tight from the waist, across the thigh, and taper down to the ankle. Skinny jeans look best on people who are slim and have a balanced or normal waistline. With a bottom that isn't too large or too flat. If you carry weight around your abdomen, then wearing skinny jeans will only emphasize this into what is commonly called a muffin top. Skinny jeans will not make you look skinny!
  • Slim: Fits close to the body, although not as snug as skinny jeans, are narrow. These are generally slim at the waist and through the thigh but not necessarily tapered.
  • Relaxed /Straight: These are comfortable at the hip and fall straight. This style is the most popular among mature women, as this style suits most figure types.
  • Boot cut: These can be a high, mid, or low rise with a slim fit through the thigh flaring out at the bottom to accommodate boots. This style is my personal favorite.
  • Boyfriend jeans: You may have been married for 30+ years, but you can still wear boyfriend jeans. So just what are they, and will boyfriend jeans suit the mature woman? The answer is definitely because boyfriend jeans are a bit baggy or loose-fitting, somewhat worn in, and just plain comfy. The idea of some marketing guru, these relaxed-fitting jeans are supposed to be ones that we have borrowed from our boyfriend. They are assuming our boyfriend is roughly about the same size as us and the same height. Usually, they are also straight leg and a normal rise.
  • Tapered: These are full at the hip and narrow towards the ankle. These can be flattering for many women in either jeans or regular pants.

Top Tips for Jeans

Distressed and vintage Jeans

Distressed and vintage Jeans

More Useful Words Associated With Jeans

Besides the fit of jeans, there are other useful words to be aware of when buying a pair of jeans. Some of these are used to describe the treatment the jeans underwent at the manufacturers.

  • Whiskers: These are the faded lines which run from the crotch towards the outer leg. Often there will be several on either side. They're called this because they look similar to a cat's whiskers.
  • Distressed: This will be jeans which are ripped or have the appearance of being well worn. Again, in my opinion, these are best left for the younger generation. In fact, I could never bring myself to pay for anything that would have been fit for only rags when I was growing up.
  • Stone washing: This process is done with pumice stones. These are the same type of stones you use to remove rough skin from your feet. The manufacturers wash the jeans with these to give them a worn-in and roughed up look.
  • Worn-in: This effect can be seen on the thighs, the back of the knees and on the seat of the jeans. This is a slight lightening which is produced by artificial means.
  • Rail tracks: These are the faded lines that run down the outer double stitched seam of the leg. It resembles a train track, hence the name.
  • Vintage: This is a term which is used a couple of different ways. These can be jeans which are genuinely old or in a 'Vintage' style. Manufacturers are quick to jump on the latest phrases if it helps sell their jeans. However, the term vintage means 25+ years old.

Various Jeans Brands

I have looked through various jeans manufacturers to see how they class their jeans. I looked at traditional brands Levis, Lee, and Wrangler. Plus Pepe, Hilfiger and Diesel to compare what you can get. The upshot of this is most of these brands carry the various waist rises and different fittings through the legs although there is a gray area between what some call skinny, slim and straight. As always sizing is all over the place so it is best to try it on or, if buying online, read the reviews to see if it is true to size. If you are buying from Amazon and the size isn't right, they are easy to return.

StyleWaistHip and thighLower leg

Skinny

normal,low

slim, skinny

slim

Jeggings

normal

skinny or slim

slim

Slim

high, normal, low

slim, straight , skinny

straight, slim

Boot cut

normal

straight

wide

Straight

high, normal

straight

straight

Boyfriend

normal

straight

slim,straight

Styles of Jeans

Styles of Jeans

Jeans:The most versatile item in a woman's wardrobe

A Love of Jeans

I have loved jeans for as long as I can remember so when the chance came to visit the Levi factory in San Francisco, on a school field trip, I jumped at the chance. I was taking sewing classes in school and together with a handful of other students we boarded the bus to San Francisco.

I assumed it was going to be an ultra-modern building full of people whizzing away on machines. As I recall it was more personal than that, as we had a guided tour with a representative from the factory. With a pile of denim about 18" on the table in front of us, we watched as the machine cut through the fabric. We walked past industrial machines, rivets, and large spools of thread until we saw the final product. To me, I had the feeling that things hadn't changed much since they first started. It was in an older building which had housed it for quite some time. It didn't have the feel of a designer's studio, it had the feel of tradition.

Best shoes for jeans

Best shoes for jeans

Footwear for Jeans

If you wonder which footwear goes with jeans, the answer is virtually any type depending on the style of jeans.

Boots, such as ankle boots, desert boots or cowboy boots are perfect with a boot cut style of jeans, obviously. But a pair of boots also can look good with slim fit or skinny jeans team as well with rolled up jeans as in the image above.

Wear skinny or slim jeans inside boots such as Ugg's or knee high boots This avoids the excess fabric escaping. See the first video on this page for instructions on how to fold over the pants leg for straight jeans.

Ballet flats and plimsoll style shoes also look fanastic with straight or slim jeans.

Slim and skinny jeans team well with heels such as stilettos or wedges, if you have the body and the legs to pull it off.

Author's Opinion

There is an old saying, mutton dressed as lamb. Just because we can fit into these clothes, doesn't mean we should.

Some of us, who are mature, have better bodies than many women half our age. That doesn't mean we have to flaunt it. Confidence comes from within and doesn't need to be cinched in, strapped up and made to look like we are 30 years younger. Maturing means feeling comfortable with ourselves and our clothing choices.

I will say, many of the salespeople in stores, which specialize in selling jeans, know their stuff. Of course, they want to make a sale, but they realize that if you're happy with your choice, you'll be back.

I remember going into a GAP store in the UK. The young man, enthusiastically came over to help me. He looked me up and down and recommend a couple of different styles and sent me to the dressing room. When I emerged, he cast a knowing eye across the jeans, requesting me to turn around so he could examine all the lines. He put his hand to his chin and paused. He was mentally going through the stock of jeans. “Just a second,” he said and sped away.

He passed me a pair of jeans as though it was his firstborn child and said, “try these.” They were perfect.

I hope this article has given you the confidence to continue wearing jeans, and a little bit of knowledge of the latest buzz words and modern phrases.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

Questions & Answers

Question: Are lighter colored jeans OK for women 60 and over, or should we stay with dark blue?

Answer: It is really down to personal choice. It's always said that darker colors are more slimming, but there are many women who are already slim and don't need to worry about a color to enhance their shape.

I live in Brazil, where women of all sizes wear what they want. It is refreshing to see women who are confident enough to wear anything they like without fear of people staring at them.

You can wear whatever color you like as long as you are okay with your choice. If someone else doesn't like it, that is their problem.

Question: I am an older woman with an apple-shaped body and a flat bottom. What jeans would you suggest I wear?

Answer: That is also my shape. If my weight goes up, it is around my tummy area.

If your flat backside is a problem for you, then there are a few options. One is to wear padded panties; these will give your derriere more definition. Jeans with large rear pockets with help disguise the lack of fullness. Often you can find jeans with large decorative stitching on the back pockets.

If neither of those options appeals, longer shirts are stylish.

You don't mention if you are high waisted or not. For an apple shape, I wouldn't go for a low rise pair, as any excess around the tummy area will spill out.

Also, you cold try a relaxed fit or a normal rise bootcut style.

Question: My daughter says that I wear “Mom” jeans. What style of jeans should I wear if I’m sixty-four?

Answer: There is nothing wrong with wearing "Mom" jeans. In fact, some labels even call them that. Usually, they are a higher rise. I would suggest you go shopping with your daughter and see if the type she "thinks" would be suitable for you are.

Two things might happen, you'll love the new style, or she will stop mentioning your current one.

Question: When going by the size charts, should you go by the waist size or the hip size? My waist is 32" and hips are 38". Size charts never seem to match my measurements.

Answer: It sounds like you are having a few problems. You don't say what style you prefer or how you like them to fit.

However, I have just checked on Amazon and Levi's do various styles that come pretty close to the size you need. I prefer to not have them too tight in the hips so a little Lycra can help. Also don't think you have to stick with one brand or one size. Also have a look at the junior's jeans, curvy jeans, and yes even Men's jeans. Levi do a 505 for men that measures, 31.5-32" for the waist, and the seat 37.5-38".

In the search for the perfect pair of jeans, no stone should be left unturned.

Question: My biggest problem with buying jeans is swollen knees. Even if the jeans would fit my waist and hips, they are too tight through the knees to get them up. I find my selection very limited, having to rely on "wide leg" in dark colors. Any suggestions?

Answer: It is a problem but you already know one of the solutions, the wide leg. There is nothing wrong with the wide leg look. In fact, some styles are quite elegant. Palazzo pants for example are comfortable and can look stylish and some come in a lightweight denim. So they look great and are comfortable.

Also consider cropped jeans/pants. These can hit anywhere from just below the knee to just above the ankle. The circumference around the knee is often wider than a normal pair of jeans.

You don't say what size you are but there are some plus size jeans that are wider around the knee.

Depending on how curvy you are, don't discount wearing men's jeans. Wrangler do a relaxed fit for men that is much wider around the knee than the ladies' relaxed fit.

I'm confident there is a pair of jeans out there with your name on it!

Question: I have a very unique body type! I’m 5’2” with a 32” inseam. I’m short waisted and wear a 2 or 4 size. The best fit for me is by NYDJ or Wit and Wisdom brand. Also Calvin Klein is wonderful at offering inseam length in all sizes! Do you know of other brands that would fit me?

Answer: I'm glad you've found makes that suit you. Also, TheMogan have a pair you might like.

You don't say if part of the need for a 32" inseam is to accommodate heels. If it is, then you could use skinny jeans that end at the ankle and wear heels.

© 2016 Mary Wickison

Comments

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on May 05, 2019:

Hi Liz,

It can be frustrating when manufacturers cancel our favorite lines. I have seen some NYDJ size 20 boot cut jeans on Amazon. They are called 'Barbara Bootcut'. I'm not sure if it is the same style you like. You can access it from the Amazon link in this article, and type in NYDJ Bootcut size 20. If you add the word Barbara, that would help as well.

If they do discontinue that style, I would suggest you send a message to NYDJ and ask what style is the replacement. It could be a marketing move, where they change the name but keep the style.

Another option would be to check out eBay, or a factory outlet store. The only other option, is to get a seamstress to cut a pattern to get as close as possible to the shape you love.

Good luck

liz morton on May 04, 2019:

I am 82 yrs old and love jeans--my favorites ever are NYDJ. A bootcut in a size 20.. I wear an 18 but the 20 looks and feels fabulous. I can't find any anywhere. any ideas???? Please NYDJ keep making these for us elderly misshapen women. I will pay top dollar as these jeans last forever and keep there shape. I have many compliments on how I wear them! Help!!!!! I need several pair,

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on March 29, 2018:

Hi Jennifer,

I can tell how exasperated you are by what has happened. When my weight goes up, it goes to the same place, right in my midsection or as my mother used to say, 'the gut'.

If you haven't thrown those jeans out yet, I would suggest you contact a seamstress or if you're handy with the sewing machine you could do it. A good seamstress will be able to open up the waistband and put an extra piece in. Fabric or elastic would work, and if needed she could extend it down into the side seam as well. Mulitple layers of denim take a strong machine, though. If you can't find a seamstress, an upholster will have machines which are more robust.

By doing that, you'll keep the same size in the hips but make the waist more comfortable. Even inserting a V-shape of fabric would work.

Although we think we have to buy what is sold by the stores, with a few modifications, anything is possible.

If you prefer to wear your blouse or shirt tucked in, a belt or scarf at the waist will hide any alterations.

Let me know how you get on.

Jennifer Wasko on March 23, 2018:

Your article was helpful but I have a horrible issue. I'm in my upper forties and suddenly within months this year I gained a bunch of weight and all of that weight and I mean every bit of it is in my stomach and waist. So I just finished clearing out my closet of jeans that don't fit most of which I paid $200 pair for and they still have tags to find that a couple of them still work. As long as they are super low rise but then I have muffin top so I'm forced to wear a huge oversized sweater only. the rest of my body did not get fat so when I'm searching for jeans my waist is 35 in and my hips are only 41. So my hips are a size eight and that's what size I've always been but this way still saying my waist is 35 in and my hips are only 41. So my hips are a size eight and that's what size I've always been but this waist still saying that I need a size 15. I live in the middle of nowhere and I order most everything online. But my waist and hips are such a drastic difference that I can't imagine of ever going to find a pair of jeans fitting. I may be stuck with just wearing the ones that I have with giant shirts or otherwise not wearing them at all. I have put on 30 pounds in my waist. This is the craziest thing ever. Literally every other part of my body is exactly the same. Honestly the only thing I can think of is to continue with low rise or purchase jeans that are six times too large just so they will fit my waist. I'm beginning to think I'm the only one in the world with this problem because I don't see a solution. Other than elastic waist. Quite a big difference from wearing beautiful $200 jeans. Not that I would go out and buy those now but I want them to look reasonable. I did find a pair of Levi's 711 that do button but they aren't that comfortable. If I go up a size in the exact Style I might be okay but I don't enjoy having Muffin Top either so I'm probably a lost cause. I have never known anyone to gain that much weight and it plant itself in only one area of the body.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on February 15, 2018:

Hi Rene,

Unless women have had implant surgery or spend their lives doing squats, we are all going to have a droopy backside. Just because large posteriors are in fashion at the moment, we don't have to kick ourselves for a less than perfect derriere.

If you're concerned and want to add fullness, there are padded panties you can buy. Some have pockets so you can add the pads when required. These will give you a nice shape but not overly pronounced.

Regarding your knees, I would suggest opting for a relaxed fit. These are a little fuller around the knee Or there are some called wide leg jeans. Although stretch jeans are wonderful, they will show, as you've said, any unevenness.If a relaxed fit is still too tight, normal jeans might not be an option.

However, there are styles such as culottes, Capri, and palazzo pants. All of these can be found in chambray which is a denim-like fabric but softer. Plus these types of pants have the wow factor. Let me explain.

We, women, have grabbed our jeans out of habit almost as a security blanket. But there are other women who opt for something to make them stand out in a crowd. Any of those I have mentioned should be wide enough to accommodate your knees. If the compression items you're wearing are socks, then long flowing palazzo pants would be a great choice. They are very feminine and comfortable!

Remember, with most online shops, such as Amazon, they offer free returns so you can try them on at home and get a feel for them.

I hope that helps, let me know how you get on.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on February 15, 2018:

Hi Maureen,

I'm glad you found the information useful. If you really like skinny jeans, then you could always wear them with a flowing hip length top. That will cover up your waist but still allow you to wear skinnies.

Although I love the bootcut style, I have long slender legs and occasionally like to flaunt them. Skinny jeans and heels or boots look great.

However, I am not getting to an age where I choose comfort first.

We all have to reassess our body shapes and our clothing choices as we age. We don't have to wear what the stores suggest but we do have to be honest with ourselves. We have to dress to please ourselves and not others.

Thanks for reading and your comment.

Rene Kruze on February 15, 2018:

My knees are very large and my rear end has "drooped". I wear compression wraps and stretch jeans show every velcro strap. Size 20 is good except for thigh to waist. Please help!

Maureen on February 13, 2018:

Hi Mary, GREAT information. I have tried on more skinnies than I can tell you and can never find one that works. You mentioned that skinnies don't work for certain waistlines - mine happens to be thick and I also measure longer in the legs than in the torso. Your comments helped me to figure out that my figure just isn't right for that type of fit...problem finally solved! I love slim fit jeans and sometimes bootcut which goes along with your advice. Thanks so much for a terrific article and re-assuring what I was discovering about my figure. You clearly stated what I was discovering but couldn't put into categories. Thanks again!

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on November 03, 2017:

Hi Donna,

I'm sorry to hear that. Perhaps jeggings might be better. They are leggings but with a look of denim. Jeans, although I love them, are a lot of thick fabric and if you want a sleek look it can be difficult.

Some women also opt for denim skirts which look great with a pair of boots for winter.

Let me know how you get on.

Donna Rambis on November 02, 2017:

I just can't find the right pair of jeans that will fit me ❤

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on September 20, 2017:

Hi Dolores,

I have quite a few pairs of casual pants with drawstrings. I'm finding waistbands on some pants, very confining and irritating.

Why the hatred of zippers?

I too like leggings as I have a high waist so the longer tops help balance me out.

I say go with what makes you feel comfortable.

Thanks for your comment.

Dolores Monet from East Coast, United States on September 19, 2017:

I enjoyed learning the lingo of jeans as well as your visit to the factory. I must confess to wearing "pull-up" or elastic waisted jeans which works for a person whose weight bounces up and down 10 pounds throughout the year. Too old for low rise and always hated zippers. I will wear jeggings with a mini dress or tunic. As an older woman I wonder how you feel about elastic waists for people who can still stand upright. I know it's pathetic but I don't care about that, as you can see from my photo my clothes don't always match either.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on September 19, 2017:

Hi Mona,

Now that I am in the tropics, I wear jeans less during the day but if we are out in the evening, I wear them.

I think you should go for it, have a day just jeans shopping and see if that past love of jeans is rekindled.

I'm glad my article has given you the confidence to give it another go.

Thanks for your comment.

Mona Sabalones Gonzalez from Philippines on September 18, 2017:

I have not worn jeans for over 10 years, but one thing I can say about your article, it gives me confidence. You make it sound so easy and doable. Thanks so much. I am giving my cupcake another chance, hahaha

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on July 07, 2017:

I too have a flat bottom but have decided, I prefer it. Who wants to be carrying all that excess around behind them? Believe it or not, wearing jeans with large back pockets or ones with a design on the rear pocket helps. Paris Hilton, also has a flat tush, who knew we were in such company! LOL

Your choice of straight jeans is probably your best bet or even a boot cut style.

Thanks for reading and your comment.

AB on July 06, 2017:

I like straight jeans, but I have a relatively big waist for my size (and a flat bottom.)

I'm still searching for great jeans!

BH on January 24, 2017:

The pop up survey you posted on this site before I had a chance to read it just made me crazy. If you want me to like your article you need to back off on the response questions until the end. ARG

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on January 22, 2017:

Hi ljb,

I'm pleased you found it interesting. I think there are many women who don't realize about the height of their waists and how this can affect clothing choices.

Thanks for the Facebook share.

ljb on January 22, 2017:

This is the best article for "mature" women that I have ever read. I especially appreciate the information about short- and long-waisted measurements. THANKS! I have shared your website on Facebook.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on November 29, 2016:

Hi Vespa, sorry for the late reply, I don't know what happened. Straight jeans are a popular choice with many women as they look timeless. Also if you wear nice shoes they don't get lost under a boot cut flare.

Hi Glenis, happy belated birthday to you. Actually both of the pairs of jeans I have here in Brazil are from M & S. I love the Per Una range of clothing. I agree with enjoying a bit of stretch in the jeans, it helps keep the shape and we can still get a nice fit.

Ladies, thanks for reading and also your input about your favorite style of jeans.

Glenis Rix on November 29, 2016:

I'm 69 years old ( as of last Sunday) and I spend most of my waking hours in jeans. Straight leg with a little stretch, from Marks and Spencer, are my preference for a good fit - and they cost a lot less than the best known brands.

Vespa Woolf from Peru, South America on September 18, 2016:

This is a very informative article. I appreciate all the tips on style and cut. It's true that our bodies change over the years and we have to take many factors into account when choosing the right pair of jeans. I prefer straight but not too skinny jeans. Thank you.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on August 02, 2016:

Hi Diana,

It's really down to personal choice. I think with anything if a person feels overweight or carries extra pounds around the hips, a dark color will help to mask this. Small rear pockets also help with this.

I personally don't care for light color jeans. A slight fade is okay but I feel if I have something too light, it looks too worn. I think young women can wear it, but for me, I prefer a light colored top and mid to dark jeans.

Another reason I prefer a darker shade is like yourself, I'm active. I don't wash my jeans every time I wear them. I try and wear them a few times until they get too loose before washing.

I'm glad you enjoyed reading the article, thanks for your visit.

Diana Clarke on July 22, 2016:

Was researching jeans & came across your very interesting article. I was wondering about colour which you didn't touch on, whether light or dark wash. I think I have the cut & style figured out as I have worn them forever, boot cut regular rise, I am only 5'4" and 125 lbs. I also just turned 76 but feel 50 and act 40, retired but still ride horseback, bike, ski and skate. I live in Canada. Still not decided on the colour, light for summer, dark for winter or does it matter ?

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on July 03, 2016:

Hi Susan,

There are some wonderful people working in retail who go out of their way to help.

I think we all are a bit lopsided to be honest with you. There is nothing wrong with wearing an elastic waistband as many of the manufacturers have incorporated this as a feature.

The point is, we as mature women have options above and beyond what the glossy magazines show on their rake thin models.

Good luck to you in sourcing your next pair of jeans.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on June 26, 2016:

Hi Dianna,

We are definitely not too old. I too like the boot cut as I think it is more flattering. Plus I don't like looking down and seeing all of my shoe.

I may be the only one who is wearing them when I turn 90, but wearing them I will be.

Glad you liked the article. Thanks for reading.

Susan Deppner from Arkansas USA on June 26, 2016:

I need your GAP guy to help me find a nice-fitting, comfortable pair of jeans. I have a lopsided figure, so I settle for elastic in the waist. Perhaps your excellent information will help me find something without elastic that would actually work.

teaches12345 on June 19, 2016:

Great article. I wear boot cut myself for the comfort and style. I'm glad to know we are never too old for jeans.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 18, 2016:

Hi Deb,

I have the same problem, but as you say, now we are lucky to have the shape we do. You are right to think that some jeans aren't flattering on those of us with a flat backside.

Selecting a pair of jeans with larger rear pockets will help disguise the lack of a booty. Plus it is much easier to do that then hit the gym for a round of squats.

I am pleased you found the terminology about jeans useful, it can be confusing.

Thank you for reading.

Deb Hirt on April 18, 2016:

Great article. I used to hate it that I had no butt and no hips, but found out in my older years that it was a blessing in disguise. At least now I know what all these terms mean if I see them.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 14, 2016:

I think it is easy to get carried away when you see something new you like. But we have to stop and ask ourselves, 'does this really suit me.' Just because we can buy it in our size, doesn't mean we should.

Thanks for reading, I am pleased you found it interesting.

Chitrangada Sharan from New Delhi, India on April 13, 2016:

Very interesting and informative hub!

I don't wear jeans normally but I loved going through all the information you shared about jeans.

I agree we should dress according to our age. And dressing gracefully is very important. We must understand what suits our personality and should not get carried away by what others are wearing.

Thanks for sharing this informative and interesting hub!

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 13, 2016:

Hi Peggy,

Much of this information also applies to other pants as well. You're right, you have to be comfortable.

Thanks for reading.

Peggy Woods from Houston, Texas on April 13, 2016:

I don't think that I ever owned a pair of jeans. If I did start wearing them I would go for comfort first. I do wear pants however in different styles. You certainly have your jean jargon perfected! :)

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 08, 2016:

Hi Dora,

I hope the lack of jeans in your wardrobe isn't age related. I know my Grandmother never wore trousers until she was over 50.

Here in Brazil, it is so warm I don't wear them much but I just can't part with them.

Dora Weithers from The Caribbean on April 08, 2016:

This is quite an education for me (no jeans in my wardrobe right now). At least, I can upgrade my jeans vocabulary. Very interesting!

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 08, 2016:

Hi Anita,

High rise are preferred by many women specifically because they can flatter us as you say. Thanks for your visit.

Anita Saran from Bangalore, India on April 08, 2016:

Low rise is everywhere and it's been ages. Finding high rise is pretty difficult. But it's so much more flattering for women's bodies - young or mature. Great info.

Mary Wickison (author) from Brazil on April 08, 2016:

Hi Bill,

I think many women past the age of 40 find it difficult. Clothing manufactures have forgotten about us in their quest to clothe the millennials. We are often left with the choice of clothing which is too young or something only our grandmothers would wear.

Thank you for your continued support.

Bill Holland from Olympia, WA on April 07, 2016:

Well, I'm not really sure what to say about all this mature women clothing stuff.....how about this....I love what you said about having better bodies than the younger generation but not having to flaunt it. Love that line and truth. My advice to attractive women....don't try so hard. When you've got it, less effort in displaying it all is better in many cases. :) For what it's worth.

Have a great weekend!

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