Back to School Shopping: The Hottest Jeans for Fall ‘09
Jeans are forever a wardrobe essential. From day to night, casual to formal, high school to college and everywhere in between, denim is the one clothing item that’s never out of place. Jeans go with everything and there’s a pair out there to flatter everyone.
No matter your personal style, there’s no way you can go back to school without at least one amazing pair of jeans. They’re the foundation of a look, the makings of countless great outfits, and one of the most comfortable and classic pieces you can own. As the first installment of CF’s Back to School Shopping series, here’s a guide to finding some great jeans this season.
The 3 Hottest Cuts:
There are 3 main cuts of jeans that are hot for fall ‘09 back to school: the skinny, classic bootcut, and trendy boyfriend cut. All three can be made trendy or classic – it all depends on the style and wash.
Here’s some more info on the top three cuts you’ll be seeing in stores this season:
Skinny Jeans
Skinny jeans have been hot for a couple years now, and they’re still going strong. While other cuts of denim have been fighting for popularity in recent seasons, the skinny cut just isn’t going anywhere. Whether they’re sleek and sexy with a dark wash, shredded for rocker appeal, or simply cute and comfy for a day of studying and hanging out around campus, skinny jeans are versatile and perfect for a number of occasions.
Skinny Jeans Under $100:
Product Information (from left): Women’s Skinny Jean – American Eagle, Ultimate Skinny Jean – TopShop, Wesc Eve Super Skinny Blizzard Jeans – Pacsun.com, Hydraulic Skinny Jeans – Charlotte Russe
Bootcut Jeans
If you’ve read this article and STILL don’t like skinny jeans or just want to add some diversity to your denim wardrobe, bootcut jeans are the way to go. They’re completely classic, work with everything, and can go from casual to dressy in a snap. They also help balance out a wider thigh, work well with sandals or boots, and will certainly stand the test of time.
Bootcut Jeans Under $100:
Product Information (from left): Women’s Artist Jean – American Eagle, Vigoss Double-Button Destroyed Stretch Bootcut Jean – Alloy.com, Women’s Slim Boot Jean – American Eagle, Hurley Skinny Bootcut Destroyed Black Jeans – Pacsun.com
Boyfriend Jeans
The ultra-trendy boyfriend jean is a popular choice for fall as well. This generously cut, slightly slouchy style gives off that effortlessly cool vibe so many strive to attain. Of course, these aren’t ACTUALLY boy’s jeans.. they’re women’s jeans cut to look like guys jeans fitted to a woman’s body. They’re cute for fall and work well with wedges or sandals.
Boyfriend Jeans Under $100:
Product Information (from left): VIGOSS Boyfriend Girl’s Jeans – Tilly’s, Bullhead Surfside Boyfriend Destroyed Medium Blue Jeans – Pacsun.com, Fragile Boyfriend Crop Jeans – Charlotte Russe, Boyfriend Jeans – Gap.com
Trends & Variations:
Shredded & Ripped Jeans
Shredded and ripped jeans have been a huge trend since they showed up on the runways at Maison Martin Margiela. Ripped up jeans were a major denim trend for fall 2008, and they’re still hot for fall 2009. If you like the rocker chick look, ripped up skinnies are a must-own item. Wear them dressed up with killer heels and a loose tee or dressed down with a pair of cute flats and a simple tank.
Ripped Jeans Under $100:
Product Information (from left): Lust Rip Skinny Jean – Arden B., Vintage Baxter Skinny Jeans – TopShop, Hurley 80′S Super Skinny Dark Rinse Destroyed Jeans – Pacsun.com, Destroyed Skinny Jeans – Wet Seal
Bleached Jeans
Bleached denim is a major trend for fall (I mentioned it here earlier this year), but beware: while these jeans are super hot right now, they’re so trendy that they probably won’t be around for long! Whatever you do, don’t spend major money on bleached jeans because they’re not going to last more than a season or two. If you have extra cash in your budget, though, bleached jeans are perfect for a night out paired with a simple tank, rocker chick ankle boots, and plenty of attitude.
Bleached Jeans Under $100:
Product Information (from left): 2020 Extreme Skinny Tie Dye Studs Jeans – Pacsun.com, Marble Bleached Crop Jeans – TopShop, 2020 Extreme Skinny Indigo Shattered Jeans – Pacsun.com
Colorful Denim
Brightly colored skinny jeans have been trendy for a few seasons now, and are still going strong for fall ‘09. Whether you prefer hot pink, cobalt blue, purple, or bright red, any of your favorite colors goes for fall. When you wear colorful jeans, remember to let them be the focus of your outfit! Keep the rest of the colors basic – blacks, whites and neutrals are your friend.
Colorful Jeans Under $100:
Product Information (from left): Over Dyed Acid Skinny Jean – TopShop, Bullhead Crescent Denim Leggings – Pacsun.com, Roxy Melly Super Skinny Jeans – Pacsun.com, Ankle Zip Skinny Jean – Wet Seal
Black and Grey Jeans
This season’s black and grey jeans are part of the whole 80’s resurgence that’s going on in fashion right now. Black skinny jeans are a slimming option that work with almost everything, while grey is a little bit trendier and trickier to pull off. If you’re going for an investment, black skinny jeans are your best option. Grey jeans are cute but will probably be out of style by next fall – not exactly worth spending tons of money on.
Black & Grey Jeans Under $100:
Product Information (from left): Skinny Jean in Faded Black – American Eagle, Ultimate Skinny Jean – TopShop, Hydraulic Skinny Jean – Charlotte Russe, Super Skinny Jean in Faded Grey – American Eagle
Splurge or Save?
I know many of you don’t have tons of cash to spend (and who does in college?), so I’m here to help narrow the choices down. Which types of jeans should you invest in and which should you buy cheap (or not at all)?
If you had to only choose one jean to buy this fall, I recommend a dark wash pair of skinny jeans. They’re so versatile and cute, as well as flattering on any body type. You can wear them with a cute top and sky high platforms for a night out or during the day with a simple tank top and sandals. They’ll make your legs look great and add style to any outfit.
Skinny jeans aren’t your thing? The second pair I’d recommend you get is a nice dark wash pair of bootcut jeans that flatters your figure. Make sure they’re long enough to work with boots or flats (or buy two pairs with different inseams if the budget allows). Fit is everything so be prepared to send things back if you buy online!
If you have money left over in your budget, then you can play a little with the trendier jeans. Loving shredded skinnies? Why not go for it? Can’t wait to rock purple denim this season? Who’s to tell you no? Get the trendy jeans on the cheap, though – there’s no sense investing tons of cash in a fad that’ll be played out in a year or so.
Your Thoughts?
You’ve seen my choices for fall denim.. now I want to know what you think!
I know you all love jeans, but which style of denim is your favorite? What kind of jeans do you plan to buy this season? What is your favorite brand? Let me know your thoughts by posting a comment.
Posted on on July 31, 2009 / Filed Under: Shopping / Tags: Back to School Shopping, Bleached Jeans, Boyfriend Jeans, Clothing, Colors, Fall 2009, Grey, Money, Purple, School, Shopping, Skinny Jeans, Trends
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Julie
My favourites are dark wash, gray or black jeans. I liked them in bootcut and skinny. Because I have short legs, I hate how the cuffed boyfriend jeans look on me. I’d love to get some dark was skinny jeans and another pair of black jeans, they are the best, IMO.
Sarah
Express jeans are buy one get one half off now too! I think I have too many jeans oopsie haha
Allie
I love the look of skinnys, and I know that you profess that anyone can pull them off. I’ve got a lot of curve though, and I’ve found that straight leg jeans give me the same effect with a little more forgiveness. Any suggestions on a place to find some great straight legs? I tried on Gap 1969’s straight option, but they weren’t quite right.
johnieemma
I’m a die-hard skinny fan. Anything with a dark wash looks flattering and classic though!
I’d say that white jeans are a really big trend right now, from Forever21 to ASOS to Pacsun. I’m not sure if I’m buying a pair yet, but they do look crisp and clean.
great article!
-
Sammy
Thanks so much for this article! I really needed it because I’ll be starting my back to school shopping soon and was going to go through the long process of jean-shopping first! My favorite right now is the boyfriend trend, they’re so laid-back and give the “chill” vibe that I’ve been striving to attain for a really long time. I love your advice about waiting and knowing when to splurge and when to hold back – I’ve been debating for a long time whether or not to get a pair of colored skinnies, but now I think I’m going to look for a cheaper pair so I won’t be left with expensive expensive jeans after the trend dies.
Thanks so much for this post! Loved it. I think your series is an ingenous idea.
M
I guess straight cut jeans are not trendy anymore? I still want a pair.
Thanks for the focus on black/gray jeans. I’ve been considering buying jeans in one or both colors, but now I’ll look for them in black only (if gray is harder to pull off). I’d like a black in boot cut, I think.
Bryn
I absolutely LOVE boyfriend jeans! I have been DIYing them by just rolling my regular jeans! I love the look and always get complimented! Boyfriend jeans just add a certain chicness to an outfit and can go with anything- tennies, wedges, heels, etc. I’m kinda sick of skinny jeans but they are good with flats sometimes and to tuck boots into. I love black jeans and wear them all the time! Long live denim!
Bryn
I absolutely LOVE boyfriend jeans! I have been DIYing them by just rolling my regular jeans! I love the look and always get complimented! Boyfriend jeans just add a certain chicness to an outfit and can go with anything- tennies, wedges, heels, etc. I’m kinda sick of skinny jeans but they are good with flats sometimes and to tuck boots into. I love black jeans and wear them all the time! Personally I’m not a huge fan of shredded denim or bleached or colored jeans but more power to you if you can rock them! They’re just not really my style but they look cool on some people. I’m definently sticking with my boyfriend style this fall, as well as bootcut and sometimes skinny! Long live denim!
Kath
I just ordered a pair of bleached skinnies from Target for $25. I was going to skip that trend but for that price I had to give it a try!
Angelina
i definitely think more people should look into buying Jolt Skinny Jeans from the BP section in nordstrom. i personally have 2 pairs (1 black and 1 dark washed). they are EXTREMELY comfortable and very flattering (i don’t have the slimmest thighs but these jeans make me feel SO skinny). They look like denim but they’re actually more of a cloth like material so they don’t squeeze you the same way actual jeans do, but they’re still form fitting. and the best part is, they’re about $40!!!! they also have them in a ton of bright, fun colors too :)
Luinae
Fabulous Article.
My favourite pairs of jeans are a nice bootcut in a dark wash with white seaming. They are so flattering on my leg, fit nicely, and they don’t look like trashy denim. I also like my 1 pair of dark wash skinnies, and I have a pair of black jeans (I don’t think those are a “trend”, they can be dressed up easily) and a pair of grey jeans, which are fun to rock!
However, this fall, I don’t need any jeans because the ones above still fit me and look great. Therefore, I want to try getting a pair of trousers in dark chocolate, probally wide-leg. But I LOVE denim still!
Leia
My black skinny jeans are my favorites! I’m glad they’ll see me through the next season. I’ve been wanting to get a pair of colorful jeans, but just haven’t found the right fit. Fit is so important when it comes to jeans!
natali
Love the article. I have black skinnies that I love and wear with everything. day ‘n night. and pair of dark wash and grey. grey I love but I’ve noticed that I look wider in them :S
boyfriend trend. not for me.
colors trend. love it! but not sure how to pull it off.
Tricia
I love your skinny jeans article. Until very recently I was convinced that skinny jeans aren’t for me (I’m size 2, but pear shaped and have butt & hips!). However, I was trying on some new jeans at GUESS and grabbed a pair of black skinnys just for fun, and I looked.. great!
Even better than in bootcut.
Now I’m looking for more skinny jeans :) Fit is most important, most brands (especially for skinny jeans) look weird on me.
Great article. It would be awesome if you could cover some back to school winter clothing (those in the east have… 9 months of winter, so we can’t splurge too much on fall clothes).
Maria
Great article!
I love skinny jeans, I own two pairs, one black one blue. They’re so comfortable and SO easy to mix with other outfits. My favorite brand is Levi’s. I own one from Mango but the one from Levi’s totally compliments my figure! (And I got it for half the price! :D)
Liz
I absolutely love straight skinny-ish jeans – not the ones that hug the ankle, but ones that are skinny then straight at the ankle. My favorite pair is a medium-wash pair that I bought for twenty bucks at forever 21. I ripped them up myself with a razor blade and added some bleach to the wash, and I always get compliments on them!
Great article.
Hannah from Hannah In Tennessee
i love skinny jeans a lot! i bought my first pair in august of last year and hated to part with them when they got a big hole in the leg from being worn so much!
however, i am not essentially feeling the whole boyfriend jeans. i tried a pair on and i felt really unkept and boyish. i know that’s the trend but it didn’t make me feel good.
yet, you wrote a great article.
gprbali
Great article! This will be my reference to choose newest style of jeans for school.
Zephyr
Glad you guys all found the article helpful! <3
Erin
I’m so glad you featured American Eagle jeans! I work there, and for the longest time I (and most other girls at the store) refused to wear their jeans. We all thought that they were the most uncomfortable, unflattering jeans. And this year, even after sitting through an employee meeting about how AE has revamped the denim line, we expected nothing else. But then we tried them on…and holy shizzz, I immediately bought three pairs. I don’t own anything else as comfortable and flattering. The legs fit slimmer and longer, the flares aren’t obnoxious, the cotton is to-die-for comfortable. And they finally changed the pockets so you don’t get that awkward flat-butt look anymore! If you’re looking for great jeans, (for the first time ever), I recommend AE!
Dawn
I think I’ll be picking up a pair of grey skinnies for this autumn to wear with boots during the day and heels on nights out. It’ll be a little bit rock chick and a little bit utilitarian mixed in with it.
Jennifer
I’ve been meaning to pick up a pair of skinny jeans for the fall. I originally didn’t like them on my body shape, but after tyring a pair on on a whim I fell in love with how they look.
Though one type of jeans I think you missed is straight leg, some stores label their straight leg jeans as bootcut, but I find straight legged jeans look good on any body type just like skinny jeans, but don’t have that skin hugging feature that might deter others.
Kimberly
I love the ripped/shredded jean style. I already have a pair and was thinking about buying another. What I do to add something extra is wear fishnet tights under them which adds a rocker style too it. Thanks so much for the article.
Cori
I love the skinny jean look, but after a few years of hunting I have YET to find a pair that fits me in all the right places (the way my 7 for all mankind bootcuts do… and I surely paid a premium for it). Sigh…
Winnie
Does anyone know where I can find a pair of jeans these days that DON’T have any of that annoying spandex material in them?!! I don’t know when this became so widespread, but I hate jeans that are stretchy. I just think they are way too clingy and do not look flattering at all, and I really want to know where to go to get jeans that are just 100% cotton.
Ally
Winnie – Try Lucky Brand maybe? I always find that there’s really no stretch to them, at least the pairs I have.
Good article, though I have to admit I’m not allowed to buy any more denim right now! I just bought a bunch for school, so this article is very taunting haha.
Ashlee
Winnie – My American Eagles and Aeropostales are 100% cotton.
I can’t understand bootcut jeans with flats. I’ve never seen it done right! It almost always looks sloppy and young.
Mandy
Since jeans are such a major staple item, I really like to buy the best possible quality in the less trendy cuts/washes (bootcut, straight)…but, working with a student budget, I can’t drop $200 on jeans. So, EBAY! I was amazed by how many great options are out there, and most of the really high end jeans were brand new (or so lightly worn you couldn’t tell the difference), and 50%+ less expensive than retail. If you love designer jeans as much as I do and you have $60-$90 to spend, you definitely can find great deals on ebay. Does anyone know of other similar sites for new/lightly used designer stuff?
Jane
White and straight-leg. ‘Nuff said.
Kortnee
I’m going shopping on Monday for jeans, very helpful timing as now I know what to be on the hunt for.
Jessica from Broke for a Month
Great article! I love skinny and bootcut jeans in dark washes and destroyed. But I HATE colored denim, probably because I went to a grades 7-12 school and saw plenty of 7th and 8th graders butcher this trend.
Trina
Gosh I can’t wait till I lose more weight so that I can wear skinnies again /=
Aury@ An Ordinary Girl's World
I already own a pair of grey skinnies and they look fabulous esp bcos i own a lot of black and aqua blue tops :)
My fav are dark blue skinny jeans though. perfect with every thing!
Brooke
I strongly disagree that skinny jeans are flattering on every body type–or, at least, the MOST flattering on any body type. The tapering in at the ankles make most girls’ thighs look enormous! Then again, it’s about finding the right pair…I’ve seen tiny things look fat in skinny jeans and bigger girls look great. But I really think that anyone would look better in what someone referred to as “skinny-ish” jeans (I liked the phrasing :D), the jeans that are tight to the knee and then go straight down. Fantastic alternative to the tapered ankle. Personally, though, I will always be a fan of the boot-cut! Classic and always flattering.
And why can’t you wear flats with boot-cut jeans? Someone mentioned it in a comment and I’ve just never heard (or noticed) that before.
Thanks for the article! Love the advice on where to splurge. :) Also appreciated someone else’s request for warm-weather clothing options…I hate wearing my down jacket (albeit my FABULOUS down jacket) for half the year.
Carolie
Yummm, denim. I loveeee jeans. Who doesn’t? My favorite styles are straight jeans and somewhat of boot cut. For some reason, I’m fickle about true skinnies, the ones that just taper down your ankle, as the previous commenter mentioned. It just seems weird to me. I do however love how straight jeans go straight down from knee to ankle, without the tapering. Great article!
Ashlee
Brooke – I’ve just never seen it done nicely. My mind is open to change, though!
Yuki
The number one investment jeans for me is the gray skinny jean. It may seem like an unlikely color that would be a classic but you can wear it with anything and any style. You could top it with a tiered white frill top and appropriate jewelry for a girly look or you could also take a graphic tee and make it indie rock style. And the best part of gray jeans is that they age pretty well. They become a more complex mix of grays and they subtly blend in with any outfit. It just matters about the fit.
Jojo
Good article!
I love dark denim skinny jeans! I can’t get enough of them.
I have an awesome pair by Parasuco, and I’m going to go back to see if they have them in black.
Lydia
I plan to buy skinny types of jeans (I realise that this kind of jeans fits me the best)…
Brittany
I am really glad you featured American Eagle jeans as well. I used to swear by their jeans but over this past year I haven’t really liked their fits, as much. However, today I went in and they were having a sale on all their jeans and I tried on the Slim Boot and they were a perfect fit. I would definitely reccomend them if you want a good pair of boot cut jeans (especially for only $35!)
wendy
BOYfriend jeans from Current Elliot are the best! Just started my own blog, please check it out and comment! THANKS! LOVE YOur BLOG! Check back daily because I will be posting everyday!
Strawb
Good article! I gotta agree with some of the other posters, though: skinny jeans definitely are NOT flattering on every figure. They’re indisputably cool on very thin people, but they can make you look so weirdly lopsided and top-heavy if you have thighs at all… sadly, this is one trend I’m gonna have to skip. :-(
Great advice about investing in a dark wash boot cut jeans, though. Those are classic!
Not long now until it’s time to hit the stores for back-to-school time… I can’t wait! <3
Hilary
I’ve found that I can sort of follow the skinny jean trend with straight jeans.
Can anyone tell me if they aren’t really in style anymore?
Aury@ An Ordinary Girl's World
i have thighs and and ass, and skinny jeans look good on me. In fact beyonce was one of the first to rock skinny jeans and they look great on her…
hey guys I’ve got this post on The Hermes Crocodile Ranch Situation and i really want to hear what you think. apparently not every1 even knows abt this. Its on my blog.
Amanda
this will really help me when i go shopping because I can only buy like two new pairs. Where are the jeans in the very first picture from, specifically tehe 3rd from the left?
Lena Michelle
i hate how jeans always get loose after wearing them for a while :(
any tips?
anyways i love this article :) i’m probably only going for a pair of dark blue bootleg and a pair of colored ones! purple seems cool :)
katgee
hmm i think id be buying dark washed skinnies. but im just wondering if straight leg jeans are still ok this season? cuz i love how they make my legs look long and lean, but not as tight as a skinny jean.
and do u have a tip on how to maintain jeans? cuz mine tend to shrink in the wash and get loose at the end of the day after wearing them =/ weird huh???
myvogue
Absolutely can’t live without jeans – boyfriend and ripped ones are my favorite!!!
M
Amanda- They look like True Religion’s to me. Try there?
Elsie
I love skinny jeans, they help me feel good and are so fashionable, the color skinny jeans are the cutest and craziest things alive. check out giovannistyle.com for articles on the latest fashion trends.
Jane
I have to be really honest and say that jeans are not my favorite trousers I much prefur a good work slack or fitted trouser but if i do where jeans it is usually a pair of bootcut jeans but its not very often that I wear jeans.
Zephyr
Allie – Jeans are so personal, it’s hard to say what the best straight-leg brand will be for you. I recommend checking out truejeans.com and taking the quiz – it will help you find the brands & sizes that fit you best based on your measurements.
Erin – Yeah, I like AE’s jeans too! One of my favorite pairs is from there – they really are quite flattering for being budget-friendly.
Cori – Keep trying! The right one is out there – you just have to keep trying different brands until you find them. Every body is different so the fit will be different for every brand.
Amanda – Those jeans are True Religion! Available at ShopBop (where all the photos at the top are from).
Katgee – Buy stretch jeans, they shrink less, also wash in cold water only and don’t ever put your jeans in the dryer on high heat!
carina
well i really like all types of jeans but mostly skinny jeans and i’m wondering what type of jeans will be in style for back to school
Jennifer
I love this post so much! I practically live in denim :) I’m gonna have to go try on some American Eagle jeans now!
A great place to get colored denim though is definitely Delia*s. I know earlier in the summer there were a ton of bright colored straight leg/skinny jeans (Morgan Jean) that are now on sale. For the fall there’s a lot of typical autumn colors like burgundy, mustard, brown, black, plum, etc. They also just recently released colored cords in bootcut, skinny, and super skinny fits! :) They’re definitely worth checking out and they fit so well! Lots of stretch for comfort!
Stephanie
I live in American Eagle jeans and any pants made by them. they seem to fit the best and if i can grab a pair for 20 bucks or less i stock up. I also love Express but tey can be kinda pricy.
Just a question, and totallly off topic. I noticed stirrup pants (pants with straps on the feet that go over heel). are being sold at walmart by miley cyrus/azaria(sp). Just wondering , are these back in style because im seriously hoping not. i despised them when i was little and despise them now.
Jennifer
(ahh, sorry, i submitted before i finished typing in the website so it leads you to some acne, skin-care site, haha)
Nessa N.
I love bootcuts, they make most shapes look flattering (like elongating your legs)
Jamie
What are the brands of the very first set of jeans you have displayed (before any of your article starts) and where can I find them?? I love those dark grey jeans second from the left! Thanks!
Rachael
i love bootcuts ’cause they’re flattering.. but i have to admit i’m a slave to skinnies! darker washes are more flattering though, if you’re going for a tapered leg :)
ib
bootcuts are definitely my thing-i’ve had this pair for 3years now and they still look as good. i also got a black pair after reading this article and mouths are watering…lol
Sage
Thank you so much for this amazing article. Great to read the comments too and see what people are into. I agree with what you said to Allie: jeans are totally personal, and it’s all about finding the right fit for your figure.
Also I think if you like a certain style and they work for your body type, don’t worry about whether or not they are currently trendy — just get the jeans that make you go “oh my god, I look so hot in these.”
I love destroyed jeans with tons of rips and frayed areas, although I have to be careful not to buy too many pairs because it’s not a look you can wear all the time.
I’ve got narrow hips, average thighs, curvy kaboose… overall athletic type figure, and petite (63.5″ tall) so I like to buy used jeans that the previous owner has had professionally hemmed to 30-31 inch length. eBay has tons of these. The brands that tend to fit me best are AG, Citizens, and Paper Denim mod/low rise.
The AG Angel bootcut jean and Citizens Ingrid low waist flair are very similar in fit and I love them both. Would recommend them to anyone who likes jeans that fit slim but are not tapered. More info on the web page I’ve linked to here.