Denim Styles for Every Body Shape: Real-Life Outfit Ideas for January
- Style with Wisdom
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 8 minutes ago
Denim is a wardrobe staple that never goes out of style, but finding the right pair for your body shape can make all the difference. January often calls for practical, comfortable outfits that work for school runs, coffee dates, working from home, and running errands. This blog breaks down denim styles that suit different body shapes and offers outfit ideas you can wear every day this month. If denim never quite fits right for you, this is exactly what I help my clients with.
Barrel Jeans for Pear Shapes
Pear-shaped bodies tend to have narrower shoulders, smaller waists and wider hips with a bum to be proud of. Barrel jeans, which are slightly tapered and roomy around the hips, balance proportions beautifully. I honestly believe that despite these jeans looking a bit crazy on the hanger they were actually designed for a womans shape. They do create curves for those that don't have them and fit the curves when you do have them!
Outfit idea for January:
Pair barrel jeans with a cozy knit, it shouldnt be too oversized as you want it to hit the waist really and neat ankle boots for school runs or casual coffee dates. Add a longline coat for warmth and style. For errands, swap boots for comfortable trainers or loafers and a crossbody bag, with maybe a fleece jacket.
Other great jean styles for pear shapes are bootcut, flare and straight leg.
Flare Jeans for Athletic Shapes
Athletic body shapes tend to have a straight silhouette with little waist definition. Flare jeans add curves and create more shape by flaring out from the knee. It's also great to go for a high rise and use belts to help give a waist line. It is also worth trying shapes like boyfriend and barrel as they are more relaxed and give shape. As an athletic shape I really recommend avoiding skinny jeans. Also, remember to try these jeans with footwear, they are intended as a floor length jean and so you have to decide whether you want to wear them with heels or flats.
Outfit idea for January:
Wear flare jeans with a fitted turtleneck and a cropped jacket for a work or lunch date look. They are also great for a night out as they are a smarter shape to wear.
For athletic shapes relaxed wide jeans also help give some volume and these are best worn as a mid to low rise.
Wide-Leg Jeans for Apple Shapes
Apple shapes carry weight around the midsection with slimmer legs, so I know having worked with clients anyone who feels they have an apple shape do really struggle finding the right pair of jeans. Wide-leg jeans draw attention away from the waist and elongate the legs, straight leg can also do this as well and mid-rise tend to be better as you can create that waist, as opposed to a high rise sitting too high and you feeling your tummy is being acentuated.
Outfit idea for January:
Combine wide-leg or straight leg jeans with a tucked-in blouse and a statement belt to define the waist. Layer with a tailored blazer for a polished look. For casual days, a chunky knit that sits slightly in line with your middle and flat boots work well.
Straight-Leg Jeans for Hourglass Shapes
Hourglass figures have balanced bust and hips with a defined waist. Straight-leg jeans maintain this balance without adding bulk. As an hourglass you are quite lucky as most denim shapes will work for you, flares and boot-cut are great too.
Outfit idea for January:
Straight-leg jeans with a fitted sweat top and trainers, or chunky boots for a school run or coffee date are super comfortable to wear. I think they are also great for glamming up as they usually hit the ankle so as well as wearing them with flats for the day you can add a bit of a heel for an evening look or dinner date. Great also for the office if jeans are allowed.
Tips for Styling Denim in January
Layer smartly: January can be cold, so layering with thermal tops, jumpers, coats, and scarves keeps you warm without sacrificing style.
Choose the right footwear: Ankle boots, loafers, and trainers all work well depending on your activity.
Add accessories: Belts, bags, and hats can elevate simple denim outfits. It's those final pieces you add that make a difference.
Mix textures: Pair denim with knits, leather, or fleece to bring the outfit to life.
Jeans are having a moment right now and I honestly believe there is the right pair out there for everyone. Message me here if you want to book in a denim shop.
