Denim style

By CAROLINE DOHACK of the Tribune’s staff

Published Sunday, January 25, 2009

Even though it’s January, it’s time to start thinking about spring styles. As we once again set off on our quest for the perfect jeans, we can take comfort in the fact that a variety of popular styles means there’s a flattering option for everyone.

Nick King photos

Skinny jeans by Citizen, $195 at Britches Clothing; top by Suq, $19.99 at Britches Clothing (sale price); shoes by Dolce Vita, $155 at Swank Boutique.
Model: Danielle Manocchi

"In all the showrooms I’ve gone into, they give us a wide range of cuts and styles, which is good in the respect that it fits so many more body types," said Lori Guy, owner of Girl Boutique. "We have girls coming in who say, ‘Oh, I need some new denim, and what’s the most popular style right now?’ There’s not one popular stand-out style right now, and that’s good."

Here’s a peek at what’s to come.

The Bootcut

Always a classic, the bootcut is flattering to everyone and looks great dressed up or down. Embellishments liven up the look, and popular features include pocket embroidery, whiskering and a little distress.

Although we’ve seen a lot of dark washes for winter, Guy says jeans are going to lighten up as temperatures heat up for daytime looks, while dark washes will remain popular for going out in the evening.

The Skinny

Some fashion forecasters say this style is on its way out, but others swear this look has legs.

"People have realized they’re not just a trend," said Erin Keltner, owner of Swank Boutique. "They’re really becoming more of a staple because boots are going to go far through spring and summer."

Dark-wash skinny jeans will remain popular for evening looks.

"I think the skinny is going to stick around for going out," said Shena Doerr, manager at Britches Clothing.

The Boyfriend

If you find yourself reaching for your guy’s jeans on the weekends, it’s definitely time to get your own. The boyfriend cut is a low-rise, comfortably slouchy fit. It’s popular in lighter washes and distressed fabrics.

"The rips are where they would normally be, and they’re very light, so when you do wear them they’re going to break in and really be your own," Keltner said.

Pair these with dock shoes and a T-shirt, or roll them up at the ankle and pair with heels.

"It’s definitely a daytime look," Doerr said.

Boot-cut jeans by Joe’s Jeans, $158 at Girl Boutique; tank by Michael Stars, $42 at Girl Boutique; shoes by Dolce Vita, $155 at Swank Boutique.

Distressed boyfriend jeans by Seven For All Mankind, $205 at Swank Boutique; T-shirt by Active Basics, $5.99 at Britches Clothing (sale price); shoes by Dolce Vita, $155 at Swank Boutique.

Reach Caroline Dohack at (573) 815-1727 or cedohack@columbiatribune.com