Denim always a classic, with new twists for summer

My love affair with skinny jeans started about a year and a half ago when I spotted them… My love affair with skinny jeans started about a year and a half ago when I spotted them hanging on a sale rack at Express. And while what first attracted me was superficial (the $20 price tag), once I put them on, it was clear the feelings were mutual. I was drawn to their rich, dark color and their adorable skinny cut, and I know my skinny jeans were lovin’ the way they felt hugging my frame in all the right places.

At first though, skinny jeans played hard to get. You couldn’t find them just anywhere, which only added to their attractiveness. They were so new and fascinating. And sure, in the beginning, like in every relationship we had little mishaps – pairs that were a little too baggy in the butt, cuffing the bottom just a little too much or wearing the wrong shoes or shirt, but finally we got it right and embarked on a beautiful affair.

We did everything together – parties, movies, just hanging around at home. We were a power couple. We could pull of any style – glam, preppy, sporty. And as time passed, I learned we could look great with almost any shoe. I wore wedges, flip-flops, ballet flats and heels, not to mention that as fall turned to winter, they just felt so good tucked comfortably into my favorite brown boots.

But after spending so much time together, I fear skinny jeans may have become a little too available. You can find them anywhere now, on practically any girl. And to be honest, the novelty has worn off, and we’ve fallen into such a boring routine – boots, skinnies and long flowy top. They no longer make my heart flutter with the same excitement that only a new outfit can elicit.

Sure, I don’t think I could imagine my life without them, but I’m looking to put a little fun back in my wardrobe. I mean, I’m only 19 after all. So, I’m on the prowl for a new denim look for spring.

For help, I turned to some boutiques to help set me up with the hottest new shapes for spring and hopefully inject some much needed variety into my deflated “jean life.”

According to Germaine Glaser, the buyer for the Pittsburgh Jeans Company, a premium denim shop located on East Carson Street in the Southside, the must-have look in denim for spring is a high-waisted trouser jean with a more dressed-up silhouette in a lightweight fabric.

Glaser said any wash, light or dark, will do, as long as it has a clean look.

“No tears with a more even color instead of a blasted look,” she said.

E.B. Pepper, owner of the women’s boutique in Shadyside of the same name, also said high-rise, wide-leg denim will be popular for spring, especially in lighter colors.

Pepper also notes the trend away from embellishment, saying, “Everything is cleaner. No stones or gems. But, of course every company has their own pocket with a little bit of color.”

Glaser echoes this sentiment: “Denim has made its way back to a more basic look,” she said.

And it’s hard to believe it now, but Pittsburgh actually does get warm during the spring and summer, so I wanted to know what styles I can expect to see if I decide to get a little flirty.

“Shorts were really strong last year, and they’re always popular in summer, but I’m not seeing as many this year,” Glaser said.

But if you’re looking to make a statement with your shorts this spring, E.B. Pepper is carrying fuchsia denim shorts with a medium rise by Rich ‘ Skinny. Also, Pepper said color is a trend across the board. Red, green and pink hues are showing up on basic jeans.

If you’re a fearless fashionista who likes to experiment, Maxalto, also located on Walnut Street in Shadyside, carries a high-rise jean by Maxime Cossoguy that reaches all the way up to just below the bust. Marta Minic, owner and buyer for Maxalto, stocks the store with higher-end American and European designer denim by D’G, Cavalli and Girbaud. For spring Minic also favors the wide-leg trend or on the opposite end of the spectrum.

“Very, very skinny legs with zippers at the bottom,” said Minic. And if you’re looking for the very latest, Minic reports, “Rompers are the newest shape in denim.”

So what kinds of brands should you be checking out for the ultimate best in denim this spring?

At Pittsburgh Jeans Company, Glaser discussed her favorite brands.

“William Rast’s fit is amazing and Earnest Sewn and Pierce are great brands also. For men I like Save Khaki designed by David Mullen, a Pittsburgh native,” Glaser said.

E.B. Pepper favors 7 for All Mankind.

“They’re very innovative,” Pepper said.

And even if you operate on a bit lower budget that doesn’t quite allow for premium denim, American Eagle carries a trouser jean for around $50 with wider legs in both a dark and light wash. Additionally, the store offers a high-rise jean with a wider leg, along with all of its usual styles.

Still, I’m not ready to completely give up on my long-term relationship with my skinnies, but I may have to let my eyes wander a little. Because, c’mon, a trouser jean for spring that’s simple, sexy and sophisticated? It could be love.