I’ve been obsessed with wide-leg high-waisted jeans for several seasons now. While I totally recommend this style, I realize I love them because they work best for my body type. My waist is relatively small, but my legs are bigger, and I feel more comfortable covering them up. Besides, my knees are looking a little bulgy in midlife, and I find that wide-leg jeans conceal them and create a smooth line. I’m sure many other women share my shape and similar concerns. But I also recognize that there are many different body types, and when it comes to the best denim jean styles for women over 50, there are specific solutions for each of us.
Best Denim Jean Styles For Women Over 50
So, I’m going to address those concerns so that women over 50 can find the best denim jean styles for their body types. One of the best things about aging is that we’ve lived with our bodies long enough to know what works. And another good thing is, we’ll wear what we want, even if it’s not the absolute best for our body types. Who cares, sometimes, as long as what we wear makes us happy? Fashion and personal expression are great for our minds!
At Fountain of 30, we never want to preach about fashion, but we do want to help you by sharing the options available and guiding you through your shopping experience. I know how trying on jeans can feel almost as frustrating as trying on swimsuits. Hopefully, these guidelines will make your next denim shopping trip a little easier.
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Jeans For 5 Body Types
Here are the best jeans for five common body types, helping you find the perfect style and fit for your shape and concerns. If you don’t know where to begin, try straight leg denim jeans. They are trending and are one of the best universal styles for most body types.
Straight Body
Best Styles: Skinny, Straight Leg, Flare, Wide Leg, Barrel, Mid or Low Waist
Why: If you have a straight body shape, you likely have a similar width throughout, with minimal curves. To add definition and balance, opt for styles that create the illusion of shape, like flared, barrel, or wide-leg jeans. Mid or low waists work great to define the hips and elongate the legs. Slim and straight body types can wear almost any style and look great in skinny jeans. Straight body women can wear a trendy shape like these Gap barrel jeans.
Curvy Body (or Plus Size)
Best Styles: Straight Leg, Flare, Wide Leg, High or Mid Waist
Why: Curvier body types often have a fuller bust, waist and hips. High or mid-waisted jeans help define the waist while providing ample room in the hips and thighs. Straight or medium wide-leg styles balance the curves and give a more flattering silhouette. If you’re curvy you don’t want to hide your shape but you don’t want to wear jeans that are too tight either. These Old Navy straight ankle jeans create definition but still skim over the body.
Thicker Waist
Best Styles: Straight, Flare, Boyfriend, Mid or Low Waist
Why: For women with a thicker waist, you may want to create a balanced look by choosing jeans that don’t cling too tightly to your midsection. Low-rise or mid-rise jeans can provide comfort and avoid squeezing. Flare and boyfriend styles also help balance the silhouette by adding volume to the legs. These mid-rise boyfriend jeans in a darker shade from Old Navy are a good option.
Wider Hips
Best Styles: Straight, Flare, Mid or Low-Waisted
Why: If your hips are wider than your waist, go for jeans with a straight or flare leg to balance out your proportions. Mid or low-waisted jeans are great for reducing the emphasis on the hips, but still provide comfort and fit. Opt for darker washes that are slimming and don’t add extra volume around the hips, like these Gap 70s flare jeans.
Bigger Legs
Best Styles: Straight, Wide Leg, Barrel, High, Mid or Low Waisted
Why: If you carry more weight in your legs, straight or wide-leg jeans will give you plenty of room without clinging too tightly. They also hide knobby knees and other leg shape flaws. High or mid-rise styles elongate your legs. Adding a belt will accentuate your waist. These Old Navy high-waisted wide-leg jeans are perfect for athletic or larger legs.
Shop Denim Jean Styles For Women Over 50
A Few Denim Shopping Tips
When shopping for denim jeans, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Try on Several Pairs in the Same Size & Style
If you’re ordering or trying jeans from stores like H&M, Old Navy, or Gap, it’s always a good idea to try multiple pairs, even if they’re the same size and style. Mass-produced denim can vary in size by up to an inch, so trying several pairs helps you find the best fit. However, I recommend shopping at these stores to try out a new look or trend and not spend a lot of money.
Consider Premium Brands for Consistent Fit
When you find a brand that works well for you, like I do with Frame, stick with it. Premium denim brands tend to be more consistent with sizing, and the fabric, construction, and styling details are often better. Plus, they last longer, making them worth the investment. Remember Cost Per Wear!
Seek Stretch Fabrics
Today’s high-waisted jeans are much more comfortable because of the addition of elastane or polyester. A small amount of elastane (1-2%) gives just enough stretch for comfort without losing that crisp denim look. I’ve noticed a trend towards 100% cotton denim and if you like those styles, you might need to size up for a more comfortable fit, as they tend to be less forgiving.
Consider Tailoring for a Perfect Fit
If you find jeans that fit your hips or thighs but are too loose around the waist, consider getting them tailored. A simple nip in the waistline can make all the difference. You may even want to size up in the legs and have the waist taken in. Hemming jeans that are too long can make a huge difference as well.
Wear What You Like! (Including Skinny Jeans)
Let’s not let younger trends dictate what we should wear! While some might laugh at skinny jeans, we know they’re still a stylish, versatile choice. Not only do they offer more support than leggings, but they also pair beautifully with long cardigans, jackets and sweaters. Skinny jeans can highlight your legs in a flattering way and are perfect for tucking into ankle or knee-high boots—another trend making a comeback. Own your style and wear what feels best for you!
Stylish Jeans For Women Over 50
Jeans are a staple in every wardrobe, but finding the perfect pair is not always easy. (It can make us cry!) So the key is understanding your body type and selecting styles that work best for you. Age doesn’t mean you can’t wear the latest trends, but we know it’s important to feel comfortable and confident in whatever you wear. Whether you’re into trendy wide-leg jeans or prefer a more classic look, the perfect pair is out there just waiting for you!
Shop Premium Denim for Women Over 50
Straight Leg
Flare
Wide Leg
Boyfriend
Barrel
Skinny
You may also like to read 5 Chic and Comfortable Fashion Must-Haves for Women Over 50 and Pantone’s Top 10 NYFW Fashion Color Trends For Spring 2025.
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