Men's Fashion archive

Jeander Bending

 

well, I finally found my place behind my camera again! As you can see...my Aussie model for the day, Tim, is speaking the Universal Language of Denim in his ripped jeans. Finding a stylist for my shoot was really tough, so I ended up taking it into my own hands...and I found myself pulling clothes from the women's section because the choice of men's clothes was lacking in that certain je ne sais quoi! I was aiming for the layered style that Australians have mastered - which I'm finding out has to do more with the temperamental weather patterns than what I had originally thought! I know some of you gents out there are partial to the cut and fit of women's jeans...but do you also look to the ladies' choices when it comes to shirts and jackets- or is it just jeans? 

 

Universal Language of Denim: Los Angeles

Well guys, our street style tour has come to it's final destination: Los Angeles, CA! Considering we started this stylish trip on the East Coast in NYC, it seemed like the appropriate place. I hope you guys have enjoyed this little project as much as I have! If there is only one thing you got out of it, I hope it was to celebrate your individuality-because someone out there is admiring you :) And no matter how many different trends there are- whether it's ripped jeans, tye dye jeans, high waisted jeans- in the end, they are all made from denim. Look into that as deep as you'd like ;) ...but do know that, yes, I am comparing jeans to the human race :)

 

Universal Language of Denim: Amsterdam

With Spring in the air here in Boston, brighter colors are fighting their way through the muted remnants of winter! I chose our street style tour destination today based on this same aesthetic. Nature can be so inspiring! So I bid you 'Hallo' from Amsterdam! Neon is one of the many hot trends happening right now, and I love how some of these guys have injected just a small dose of this bright color family into an otherwise pretty tame outfit!

Do you guys prefer the neon incorporated as an accessorie (like the sneakers and boots on the 1st and 2nd row) or would you prefer to make it the stand out clothing item (like the two guys in the middle)?

 

 

 

Men's Shoes | A Character Flaw?

 

Rumor has it that you can tell a lot about a man by his shoes. I personally don't buy into this theory, but there are a few authors out there that would scoff at my preference to the scuff! According  to Donna Sozio, author of "Never Trust a Man in Alligator Loafers: What His Shoes Say About His True Love Potential", the most important thing a woman should look for in a man's shoes is "Condition, condition, condition. If a man can't take care of his shoes, he can't take care of you, bottom line." Hmmm- I have to disagree. Besides, the man in the above photo is my husband in his incredibly full-of-life shoes...and I can't imagine being taken care of any more than he takes care of me :) Those shoes have followed me into the deepest woods for photo shoots, they've walked next to me on my darkest days, and most importantly they've played with our dog in the middle of numerous rainstorms! In some cases, shoes can just get better and build more character with time, but I'm not opposed to a little polish on a dressier shoe from time to time :)

Even though I hope my husbands shoes have a few more years in them, I asked him to put together a spring shoe wishlist to share with all of you. With lighter weight shoes having a slimmer sole compared to heavier winter boots, your jeans may tend to get caught underneath your heel and completely ruin the hem line. One way to avoid ruining your new spring jeans would be to get them hemmed through the True Jeans Original Hem Service.

 

(clockwise from top left: Converse Tweed Low Ox,  Kenneth Cole Chukka, UO Tonal Oxford,   Diesel Runaway , Bronx Atlanta , Calvin Klein Earle )

So how do the men out there feel about being judged on your shoes? Do you rate your potential dates on the looks of their shoes? For the ladies- do you put a lot of importance on a man's shoe?

Double Denim

I'm very close to taking that leap over the fence towards the positive side of the double denim issue, but I think it could be solely to do with the girl on the left. To me- she is absolutely owning this look! The combination of the awkward stance, the hat, the red lips and the boyfriend jeans just begs to take center stage on the pages of a fashion editorial!

The March issue of Lucky magazine had a feature on how to master the look of denim on denim for the girls. Here are their three fail-safe ways to wear the trend:

• dark+dark : Indigo washes have a 70's workwear appeal-and the added benfit of being slimming. So a loose silhouette works well: A baggy jacket (with the sleeves rolled) and wide-leg trousers look clean and casual. Keep it all simple by tucking in a white tee, and add patterened wedges for a bit of color.
• light+light: Pale hues instantly lend a lighter, girlier quality, so they're great for softening the look of tough pieces like tight jeans and motorcycle jackets or rocker-ish vests. A long undershirt reinforces the lean silhouette, while a studded sandal will echo the glamorous/edgy feel.
• dark+color: Bright stovepipe jeans are quite bold, and pairing them with black denim-in the form of a sleek blazer-is a fun and easy way to balance them out and play them up. Hit an elegant note with the rest of the outfit: a drapey silk blouse and super feminine beige heels.

Don't fret guys!...this trend can be for you too! For those of you looking for inspiration not involving skinny jeans...read on to see how Kayne West put his spin on wearing denim with denim!

So, how do you feel about this denim-on-denim trend? Have you found the perfect combination that you'd like to share?

Continue reading "Double Denim" »

Justin Timberlake on Oprah | William Rast

 

Oprah's Friday Live brought Justin Timberlake to the round table! The actor, producer, song writer and fashion designer visited Oprah to show some pieces from the William Rast spring collection. (Oprah.com)"Justin says he loves to see women wear a mix of sexy and tomboy looks...a style his girlfriend, actress Jessica Biel, is known for. "She's obviously a huge muse for me and with the designers too," he says. He also added that every woman should have a good pair of jeans and a leather jacket in her wardrobe. 

In keeping with this style, the first model came out wearing William Rast's black leather jacket with studs and Jerri skinny jeans. Both models were also wearing a pair of cropped boots; a style that Jessica Biel has been seen wearing a lot lately and also becoming a fast Hollywood trend! 

"Over the years, Justin has become known for his unique sense of style. "I like mixing sort of a cleanup top with the rugged jeans and like a flannel with a blazer," he says. "Try it, guys. See what happens." To illustrate his point, a male model pairs the William Rast "Ben" jeans with a flannel shirt and optical wave wool blazer."

What's the inspiration behind these looks? "I'm inspired by our president, and I'm inspired by new leadership," he says. "I'm inspired by the world, and we're expressing it."

"William Rast takes its denim very seriously. To get the creases for the line's "Ben" jeans just right, Justin says Johann, the head designer for men, wore the same pair of jeans for 18 months...without washing them."

Check out this video on oprah.com to see Justin Timberlake giving a tour of the downtown Los Angeles William rast headquarters.

Willliam Rast doesn't just look amazing on models and celebrities! Trace took to the streets of Chicago to recruit young men and women to model more looks. See the video here on oprah.com."

(excerpts and images courtesy of oprah.com)

Universal Language of Denim: Melbourne

G'Day! Monday's are always a tough wardobe day for me because I'm still clinging to the disheveled comfy weekend wear. So today I am going to admire the street style of Melbourne, Australia and take some pointers from a few of these polished and preppy looking people. I'm loving the blazers! If I had one, I would absolutely throw it on over my childhood horse t-shirt to smarten it up a bit! Hey...it's the thought that counts right? ;)

 

 

Universal Language of Denim: Tel Aviv

Shalom! High rise jeans and an 80's color palette are proving to be a strong trend in Tel Aviv, Israel. From the bright pops of bold color, to the uncharacteristically sweet look of the neon spattered paint; these guys have managed to keep these looks current, but still bring back the good memories from decades past!

 

 

images from thestreetswalker

William Rast Fall/Winter '09 Fashion Show

 

Justin Timberlake and Trace Ayala hosted their William Rast Fall/Winter '09 fashion show in the Bryant Park tents this year. They were joined by creative directors Marcella and Johan Lindeberg to show off their new line of jeans. The New York Post had this to say about the collection: "...Timberlake, Ayala and Lindeberg truly understand the sexiness of a studded leather jacket, a plaid shirt and some well placed leather fringe. And the denim- as usual- is trendy, inventive and interesting. The biker bar and feel and acid wash skinny jeans were a combination we could get used to on boys and girls. This year's theme was "New America" and the show notes read, "New America is here, and with it, William Rast is embracing the renewed confidence and vision. We believe that during this coming of era of modern America, it is creativity that will be one of the most important ingredients into today's culture." The notes continued, "We are part of understanding the needs and appealing to the desire of this evolving culture."

Here are a few looks from the collection. Check out Denim Blog to see more from the collection and to see who was sitting front row!

 

Universal Language of Denim: Buenos Aries

Hola! Our world street style tour has landed us in Buenos Aries, Argentina with these brightly colored personalities. I love all the poses! Their confidence is definitely the most stylish thing about them :) Their sneakers are a close second!

 

 

images from on the corner 

Universal Language of Denim: Paris

Love is...Paris street style. Everything about each and every one of these incredibly fascinating looking people has validated Paris as being the city of love for me! Yes, they may have meant it in a completely different way all these years...but, to each their own- right?! I have fallen so hard for the mastery of styling that Paris has to share, that this blog has become part of my morning ritual! Paris...tu es pour moi la plus belle.

 

 

Universal Language of Denim: Tokyo

moshimoshi! Feast your eyes on the layering, the subtle details, the shapes, the pops of color! These creative individuals seen in and around Tokyo, Japan seem take a simple every day task of getting dressed and make it into an art form.

images from streetpeeper.com

Universal Language of Denim: Copenhagen

Hej! These fine looking folks from Copenhagen, Denmark are not afraid to dabble in a denim trend or two. I have to say, I am seriously considering adding a pair of acid wash jeans to my wardrobe! Either a pair of those, or tie dye ones like the guy from New York City.

 

 

images from copenhagenstreetstyle.dk

Universal Language Of Denim: London

I have a special place in my heart for London, so I was very excited to spend the morning living vicariously through these unique individuals! I can only imagine what gem the adorable girl in the jean shorts has in that Selfridges bag! Cheers to my love...London, England.

Just joining us? Check out the street styles of New York City, Budapest and Berlin. Images from stylescout.blogspot.com.

Continue reading "Universal Language Of Denim: London" »

These Boots Are Made For Endless Walking

I promise I will get down from my men-in-boots soap box shortly...but I'd just like to share one more thing I found over the weekend! TeddyBoyInc. Your feet will thank you, but your jeans may get a little jealous...and so will everyone else on the street!

Universal Language of Denim: Berlin

Guten Tag! Today we are exploring the streets of Berlin, Germany. I can't seem to take my eyes off of the guy in the tie-dye jeans and plaid blazer- I would love to spend a day shopping with him! Are you guys coveting any looks that you saw here? Or perhaps someone in New York City or Budapest caught your eye?

 

 

(images from stilinberlin)

The Universal Language Of Denim: Budapest

 From New York City, USA...to Budapest, Hungary...

 

 

(images from bpstyle.blogspot.com)

 

The Universal Language Of Denim

Fashion trends have their inspirations, muses and origins. Designers have been known to pound the pavement to cure a little design-block and even shopping magazine Lucky has taken to the streets for styling tips from passers by. The way a bike messenger rolls his jeans to avoid the spokes could prompt you to roll your shirt sleeves differently, or maybe you'll experiment with a new shoe color because of the girl running for the train in the most amazing tights (yes, I can't stop thinking about that flash of marigold!). The streets are fashion's playground, and people share whether they like it or not! :)

Over the next few weeks, I will be posting images of people around the world...on the streets of their cities..doing what they do best; being themselves. No matter what country they're from, they are all fluent in denim! First stop on the style tour...New York City, USA.

Street style blogs such as The Sartorialist and Style Sightings are satisfying the people-watcher in all of us, but documenting street fashion is not a new thing. New York Magazine's fashion writer Amy Larocca and photographer Jake Chessum were teamed up in 2004 for the magazine's weekly feature/social experiment/style record known as the Look Book. New York Look Book: a gallery of street fashion is a compilation of 3 years in the making where the core of its theme is the idea that New York City is a giant-sized runway.

Next stop... Budapest, Hungary!

(images from The Sartorialist, Style Sightings and Refinery 29)

William Rast | New York Fashion Week

William Rast, the brand created by Justin Timberlake and Trace Ayala, will be making their Bryant Park debut next month when they show their spring collection under the tents during New York Fashion Week. This will be the brand's second show during NY Fashion Week. The last show was held at the Roseland Ballroom, which included southern touches through the help of wooden benches, leather lounge chairs and treating the likes of Vogue editor Anna Wintour to buckets of Budweiser!

According to WWD, a spokeswoman for William Rast said that while Timberlake is scheduled to be present at the Feburary 16th show, there will be no performance. I wonder if Justin will proudly wear the runway look like he did last year with his cuffed jeans and boots! Even if Timberlake's girlfriend, Jessica Biel, is unable to make it to the show to support her man, she clearly makes up for it throughout the year! From her Savoy Trousers to her Sadie Straight Leg jeans, she creates her own runway of looks.

 

 

The Finishing Touch

Happy New Year! Were some of you feeling the pain like I was about covering up your finely-tuned New Years outfit with a not-so-glamorous winter jacket? With temperatures in the low teens it was a definite practical move on my part to opt for the plain puffy coat, but unfortunately my style factor was below zero! Needless to say, this started a hunt that ended in a new obsession: Mackage. The structures... the details...the collars! Here are a couple of styles that I *window* shopped for myself and my husband!

 

Walk The V-Neck Line

A plain white t-shirt; the no fuss-all year round-goes with everything-wardrobe staple. What better gift could there be to give this ‘practical gift' giving year? (Besides a classic pair of jeans of course!)

The most coveted style is the slouchy deep-v neck, which is inspired by a man's undershirt. Men everywhere breathed a sigh of relief when brands, such as Red Engine, started making jeans for women in a ‘boyfriend' fit, but with this trend there is no need for panic! Celebrities, such as Jessica Alba and Lauren Conrad, have been turning to LnA t-shirts for their simple and understated chic looks. Designers Lauren Alexander and April Leight created these super soft, loose fitting shirts to look like a man's t-shirt, but cut to flatter women. With their amazing fits, versatility and bright color range, LnA is receiving some deserved rave reviews from Vogue, InStyle and Nylon magazines.

 

No need for jealousy guys- LnA also has a men's line using the same ultra-soft cotton! Celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Orlando Bloom and Gavin Rosdale have been seen looking undeniably and understatedly cool.

I've also heard that James Pearse has finely tuned the vintage feel, but I haven't actually tried those on. Does anyone have any other suggestions for finding that perfectly worn in t-shirt?

 

Continue reading "Walk The V-Neck Line" »

Men In Boots

The topic of men tucking their jeans into boots is one of those conversations that people tend to tip toe around. I've had a few brief discussions lately myself, and I am always left wondering why there is a timidness in the air about whether the look is preferred or not. I did a little searching around the blogosphere on this subject and came to these conclusions: a) men are a bit weary of trying it out, even though they really want to. b) women aren't quite sure how they feel about their men sharing their same fashion trends. c) some people (unfortunately) feel the need to attach stereotypes. For the people who fall under d) none of the above....I commend you!

With all this talk of change in the air, I thought I'd share a few ways to wear this controversial style in the hopes of inspiring at least one person to experiment, one person to stop over-thinking and just do it, and possibly one other to encourage someone else instead of giving that dreaded once-over look.

 

One way to show off your ankle boots is to follow the current women's trend of cuffing your jeans. Instead of giving your jeans a messy roll, try a crisper and taller fold like Chris Brown, who gives a nod to the rockabilly look of the 50's with his white tank, open shirt and chain. If you're looking for an overall style that is a little more tailored, then look to Justin Timberlake at his William Rast runway show for some inspiration. Casual friday's just got less casual!

Another option is to non-chalantly shove your jeans into your boots-giving the idea that you were just too busy to take the time to get fully dressed. Jude Law has successfully mastered this rugged look- wether or not he tried! Justin Timberlake also showed off his boots with this purposeful haphazard style. On the other spectrum, Ed Westwick rocks a pair of skinny jeans and harness boots on the set of Gossip Girl.

Being photographed out and about on the streets is not just for the celebrities anymore. One of my favorite blogs is The Satorialist- a daily style diary on average joe's photographed on the street looking far from average! I would imagine that seeing your image on this site would make anyone proud! These guys below are some of the d) listers that marched to the beat of their own drum and became part of the chosen ones.

So, now that you've seen a few different ways to show off your boots- are you going to go out and buy that pair you've been dying for? For those of you already wearing this trend- Do you have any helpful tips?

 

Men @ Work

 

 

The October issue of Men's Health magazine has an insightful editorial on "The Ultimate Guide to Buying, Wearing and Looking Great in Denim". Their Denim Through The Ages timeline takes you through James Dean's classic white t-shirt look in Rebel Without A Cause, to the 1976 punk movement with the Ramones in skinny ripped jeans through to a 15-year old Brooke Shields and her infamous Calvin Klein ads.

Along with having 'real guys' talking about why they love their blues they have their cover model Rob Hillis, carpenter of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, talk about his work wardrobe staple! '..."Baggy pants and protruding boxers are a liabilty for me, " says Hillis, who needs to be nimble on set. A precise fit will keep you from snagging and create a more flattering silhouette. Each brand has its own idea of sizing--often very different from the waist measurement on the tag...'

Other helpful tips in the article include some 'Blues Basics' from David Lim, founder and designer of Kasil Jeans. He explains how to clean your favorite denim:

-Wear your jeans at least two or three times between washings.

-Turn jeans inside out before laundering. use cold water and mild soap.

-Hang dry. Do not use a clothes dryer- heat will fade and shrink denim.

-To maintain the original color of your jeans, dry clean them.

The article also highlighted Lucky Brand Jeans, 7 For All Mankind and Kasil jeans as some brands to check out for different occasions. Below are a few style suggestions from True Jeans on how to  incorprorate jeans into your work wardrobe!

 

1. 7 For All Mankind Bootcut Fiji  2. William Rast Billy Prince 3. William Rast Billy Darkness

1.  Chip & Pepper Ike Nifus Dixon  2. Kasil Smith Grease 3.  7 For All Mankind Bootcut Fiji

 

William Rast Movies Are Here!

The short web based William Rast movies have finally premiered.  These promotions were long awaited so, enjoy!

What do you think of Justin Timberlake’s portrayal of character William Rast?  Do you think this a good way to market the William Rast brand?

Keep Your Pants Up!

 

Has anyone ever pointed out to you that your fly was down?  The Zip Holder ensures this embarrassing situation will never happen again.  This clever little elastic button loop closure will keep your zipper up and is easy to attach from your jeans.  What do you think of the Zip Holder?

USA Gets a Gold Metal in Fashion?

The 2008 Summer Olympics opening ceremonies were nothing short of spectacular.  Bejing hosted a marvelous 4 hour whirlwind of entertainment previous to the Parade of Nations introducing the proud athletes completing this year.  Our team at truejeans.com highly appreciates sportsman ship and we are proud of our USA team amongst all of the great athletes from around the world, but we always have our eyes on fit and fashion. 

Picture courtesy of boston.com.

For this year one of America's finest, Ralph Lauren, designed USA's uniform for the Parade of Nations opening ceremonies. The classic all American tailored look for both men and woman may have topped some of the looks showcased, but fashionista's on bravotv.com have mixed opinions.  Was USA a fashion do or don't?  What other countries did you think had great style?  

HonestMall - the Fashionista's (and Fashionisto's!) eBay

Perhaps you've visited the folks over at DenimBlog and HonestForum via our blog roll or some of our blog posts for some fashion advice or the scoop on the latest trends.

There is another really cool part of their website called HonestMall. You know how if you go into eBay and search for designer clothes, you end up with a gazillion results loaded with knock-offs and scams? Well, on HonestMall, it's a much smaller scale, and they've taken precautions to make sure that all of the listings are authentic.

The mall charges a one time $10 entry fee to keep the scammers out, and there are brand managers that review the posted items to make sure they're real. They dig through to make sure that the seller is a real person, that they have a high feedback rating, where the item came from, and they even comb over high-res photos to confirm stitching and tag details. No more squinting at your monitor to figure out if that sexy Juicy Couture sweatshirt or that cute Kate Spade bag is fake! Some sample brands you might find on there include Diesel Jeans and Sevens as well as Louis Vuitton, Dolce and Gabbana, Manolo Blahnik, and more.

They are also working on integration with myspace and facebook and are building a mini version to work on your phones and blackberries. The best part? They've started a charity too and a portion of all their revenue goes to the poor. Stay tuned for more info as we collaborate, and remember to shop safely! If you're ever suspicious, remember to have a look at our blog post about how to spot fake premium denim so you don't make an expensive mistake!

Esquire Magazine's Best Dressed Real Man

Esquire Magazine recently put its readers to the test with their contest for the "Best Dressed Real Man 2007."  The contest, which took place earlier this season, challenged readers to find men in their own lives who they thought were the best dressed.  Readers were asked to submit their candidates for voting, and then the group was narrowed down to semi-finalists and eventually a winner was chosen.

By looking at the profiles of each of the five finalists it is easy to see that you don't have to be a fashion designer to have the sharpest duds on the street. Contestants' occupations covered a diverse range, with the five finalists being a New York restaurant manager, an LA Clothing Shop Owner, a Floridian business manager, a Floridian attorney, and a North Carolina dental student. 

Viewers can look at contestants' profiles, watch interview videos, and learn some tips and tricks for enhancing their own wardrobe choices in the "How to be a Best Dressed Real Man" section of Esquire's website. With topics for how to dress like a million bucks regardless of your less than a million budget, how to choose a dress shirt, and an introductory how-to on pattern choices, this site could be a useful tool for all the men in our lives!

Jeans and Boots for Men???

 

 

 

Last week, Jonathan Rhys Meyers visited MTV's TRL to promote his new movie, August Rush.  Meyers and co-start Kerri Russel chatted about learning to sing and play instruments for the movie. 

Meyers also rocked a pair of skinny jeans tucked into boots.  This boot-iful look is something that I chatted about last week as a great trend of the season for women. 

How do you feel about men rocking this look?  Can't wait to hear your opinions!

Target Goes Model-less

With all the talk about model’s being too skinny lately, Target has ditch models for its latest showing of fashion and have enlisted the help of animated holograms to debut its newest fall fashions.  The 3-D projections were created by Musion Systems Limited, who also helped created the holograms used during the Gorillaz’s live performance for the MTV Europe Awards.  This show was the first virtual model-less fashion show of its kind.  

Target's show took place last week on November 6th and 7th at Vanderbilt Hall in New York’s Grand Central Station.  Streaming projections were broadcast several times each hour throughout the two day event.  The show featured men's, women's, bridal and maternity collections from Bowie by Keanan Duffty for Target®, Erin Fetherston™ for Target, Isaac Mizrahi for Target®, Liz Lange for Target® and Mossimo for Target™ as well as jewelry, handbags and shoes from Dominique Cohen for Target® and HOLLYWOULD for Target®.

What do you think of Target’s innovative fashion show?  Is it a strike of genius or should they have stuck with traditional real life models to show their new live of fashion?

 

"Love, Life, and Sneakers"

Have the past few posts sparked your interested in the sneaker culture?  If so, I suggest reading “Life, Love and Sneakers” from The Boston Phoenix.  The article was written over a year ago but is filled with timeless stories about the sneaker culture.

According to The Phoenix, the sneakerhead culture “isn’t just confined to online forums and brick-and-mortar high-end stores; it’s also creeping into the mainstream.”  The infiltration of the sneaker culture can be seen by watching the ESPN2 series It’s the Shoes, “a late-night sneaker-centric summer-series featuring interviews with the likes of Carmelo Anthony, Spike Lee, and Missy Elliott.” 

The hip hop culture has and continues to greatly influence the appeal of the sneaker culture.  Legendary MC and DJ, Biz Markie, shares his passion for sneakers in this clip from ESPN2's series It’s the Shoes.  Check out his old school 1970’s Puma’s and Super Pro Ked’s.  

So just how huge has the sneaker culture become?

So just how huge has the sneaker culture become?  American’s obsession with sneaker has grown so big that ABC’s Nightly News team covered the story. The segment is great because it touches on the fact that sneakers are a form of nostalgia that many people are willing to pay a pretty penny for.   

Click here to check out this segment.  The segment features clips from HBO’s hit series “Entourage” and Spike Lee’s Do The Right Thing. 

Change your Jeans not your Genes-- find a pair that fits the TRUE you.

It is with great pleasure that I am able to introduce our True Life readers to our first official guest blogger.  Addie Smith works for Boston College as a Research Coordinator in the Women's Resource Center. Boston College is currently in the midst of their "Love Your Body" week long campaign to raise students' awareness about body image issues. Please read on the find out more about this campaign and how you too can get involved to promote healthier body image.

 

Change your Jeans not your Genes--
find a pair that fits the TRUE you.

 

 

 

Standing in front of the mirror squeezing, stuffing, and shimmying into jeans left over from my senior year in high school I realized—I’m not a size 2 anymore—not even close. I looked in the mirror, sighed, and like any other woman scrutinized-- hated.

For me, this scrutiny is particularly shameful. I run a research study looking at the biological (and genetic) correlates of anorexia nervosa - a serious psychiatric disorder where the fear of fat and weight gain is so over powering that individuals fast, exercise, and purge to points of severe malnutrition and life threatening medical complications.  So, shouldn’t I, the scientist, understand how ridiculous it is to try and make my body do and be things it simply can’t? And shouldn’t I, who sees women each day who have lost themselves in the pursuit of thin, lead by example and love all of me? Well, it would help if I could find a pair of jeans that fit.

Inspired by the National Eating Disorders Association and in conjunction with the Boston College Love Your Body week the Eating Disorders Research Team in the Boston College School of Nursing has partnered with TrueJeans to encourage college age women (and men!) to change their JEANS not their GENES.

The lifetime prevalence of full blown anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa in women are .9% /1.5% respectively and .3%/.5% respectively in men (Hudson et al. 2007). These numbers still surprise me and they barely touch on the amount of healthy individuals who struggle with poor body image and disordered eating patterns—especially in college!

Although exercise and healthy eating are important, we now know that the size and shape of your body is greatly determined by genetic factors—which are hard to change, but with a site like TrueJeans finding a pair of jeans that fits everyBODY isn’t so hard.

Sneakerpimps

For years now, Sneakerpimps has been on a revolutionary traveling sneaker tour that represents the sneaker culture through out the entire world.

Sneakerpimps is a lifestyle showcase with more than 1,500 shoes on display as well as sneakers crafted by artists and inspired by photography. Most sneaker events only have Air Jordan or Nike displayed and a couple more brands that have blown up the last couple years. However, Sneakerpimps has a wide variety of limited edition kicks that are hard to find anywhere else.

This show is a lot different from others traveling exhibits. The show takes an innovative look at not just the colors but also the artistic vision that goes into creating every pair. Most of the shoes that travel with Sneakerpimps were custom painted or custom created. The Aragon hallways were filled with sneakers.

If you are a sneakerhead, I definitely suggesting check out this show when it comes to a city near you!

Continue reading "Sneakerpimps" »

Jeans and Sneakers - The Ultimate Duo

America is truly becoming a denim culture.  Jeans are no longer reserved for casual weekend wear; instead they have become a staple in our daily wardrobe.  What better to pair with your jeans than a great pair of sneakers.  Not only are they totally comfortable, but a great pair of sneakers can also be the ultimate fashion statement.

I went on the hunt for the perfect pair of sneakers recently and during my search I learned a tremendous amount about the growing sneaker culture that is making sneakers one of the hottest commodities on the market.

My knowledge of this growing sneaker culture was pretty limited.  Besides the fact that I love the way a great pair of sneakers looked when paired with awesome fitting jeans, I did not know much about how the sneaker culture got its start and slowly invaded main stream America.

In order to begin learning about this social culture and find my perfect pair of kicks, I checked out Hypebeast.com, an online magazine for all things relating to the sneaker culture.  This site is a great resource for anyone interested in learning about the latest sneakers to hit the market and is also great for those looking to learn about the many vintage styles that are out there. 

Hypebeast.com also has a forum with topics relating to specific sneaker brands, custom sneakers, where to buy sneakers, and street fashion.  The conversations that are contained in these threads certainly show the passion for sneakers that is growing.    

From there, I checked out a site called Sneakerhead.com.  Sneakerhead is a term describing the newest generation of sneaker collectors, those in search of  the coolest, rarest sneaker on the market, whether it be Adidas, Nike or Reebok.  If you are at all interested in learning about anything from the history of sneakers to where to get the best selection of sneakers, Sneakerhead.com's Sneaker Academy is the place for you.

Check back all week for more about what I learned about the sneaker culture!!!

7 For All Mankind Broadens Its Brand

The Journal tends to support the idea the 7 For All Mankind’s expansion will give the brand a stronger presence in the market and will be good for the company, stating:

"Launched in 2000, without any advertising but lots of word of mouth in hip, fashionable circles, Seven For All Mankind's jeans quickly became hot sellers, racking up $70 million in sales in its second year in business in 2002, up from $13 million its first year… The brand burned hot enough to catch Wall Street's attention. In 2005, Bear Stearns's Merchant Banking unit bought a 50% stake in Seven for All Mankind LLC for nearly $300 million. Founder Mr. Koral owned the rest. He is staying on with Seven until his contract expires in February."

Seven has also recently been acquired by the major apparel label, VF Corp, who also owns brands like Lee, Wrangler and Nautica.  Seven should be able to use the resources already in place at these sportswear brands while breaking into the accessory market.  

7 For All Mankind’s premium jeans literally exploded onto the scene, quickly earning critical acclaim and an immediate following for its innovative us of fits, fabrics, and finishes in denim.  Will the same happen for the brand’s new line of accessories? 

What do you think?  Will 7 For All Mankind be able to successfully crossover into other product categories or should they keep their focus on the quality denim that so many of us how come to love?

Halloween Costumes for the Denim Lover

With Halloween only a week days away, the clock is ticking to come up with some last minute costume ideas.  There is no need to panic with these three simple ideas that can all be assembled with your favorite pair of denim jeans. 

You can easily create a cowboy or cowgirl costume by pairing your jeans with a western inspired vest, a cowboy har and some cowboy boots.  

To create a scarecrow costume, throw on some jeans and a plaid short and stuff the pockets full with straw or shredded raffia.  Tie twine of rope around your waist to make a belt.  Add a few touches of straw to a hat, gloves and boots.  Finish the look with a corn cob pipe and or even a fake crow perched on your shoulder. 

For those looking for a costume that is slightly more creative, check out the Where's Waldo above.  This costume can also be super easy.  First, pair your blue jeans with a red and white horizontally striped shirt.  Add a pair of round, black framed glasses and a red and white striped cap. 

Please feel free to share any other costume ideas that can be created with denim jeans!  I can't wait to hear what you come up with! 

Denim Hits the Runway with Chanel

When you think of Chanel, black and white classic elegance most likely comes to mind.  However, Chanel’s recent catwalk show at Paris Fashion Week moved away from the world of classic elegance and moved into the edgy world of denim!

It seems like everyone in the fashion world, including Louisa Kinoshi at Tartan Online, is buzzing about this collection.  "The last thing the fashion world expected was a show proclaiming American nationalism", says Kinoshi, “but that's just what they got. With a prevalent theme of reds, whites and blues, Chanel Creative Director Karl Lagerfeld showed the high fashion crowd that denim can belong on a fashion week catwalk, in more ways than one.”

With this line, Largerfeld has taken an everyday fabric like denim and has translated it into the haute couture world of high-end fashion.  I am not sure how I feel about the use of denim in this collection.  Don’t get me wrong, I really think the lines of these pieces are gorgeous.  I just don’t know if the fabric is appropriate for the image Chanel upholds. 

How do you feel about Chanel’s new line?  Do you think Chanel is taking the denim trend too far?

Take Forbes Advice on How to Wear Fall's Fashion Trends

A recent Forbes article, entitled "How To Wear Fall Fashion's Top Trends," discussed the latest fall fashion trends and offers advice on how to take the runway trends and make them work with your everyday wardrobe. 

 According to Forbes, wearing runway looks can "pose  a risk: What won applause on the runway can get you hooted off the stage of real life. Says David Wolfe, creative director of The Doneger Group, a fashion-forecasting firm in New York City, "For the designers, it's an exciting time; but for consumers, figuring out how to wear these trends without looking foolish can be problematic."

Yellow and other bright hues were a major trend to hit the runways in designer's menswear fall collections.  Forbes advised that the best way to incorporate these brighter colors into your wardrobe is to "use sparingly."  A great way to pull this look off is to incorporated brightly colored accessories  such as a tie or pocket pocket to your outfits.  

For women, the major color trend is grey.  But for those who are looking for a little more color, geometric patterns are the way to go.  Forbes warns that you can "run the risk of looking a fool, though, if you wear too loud a print in too conservative an office. And to wear more than one patterned item at a time is definitely a no-no: You'll look like a test-pattern." 

To learn more about the right way to wear this season's trends check out "How To Wear Fall Fashion's To Trends"  at http://mt.corpblogsite.com/mt2/www.forbes.com

The Skinny on Tight Jeans for Men

Just how tight is too tight when it comes to men's denim?  It seems like the men's denim scene has been dominated with one look for as long as I can remember; the low slung, baggy look.  Recently though, we have begun to see a new trend emerging in the men's denim world. 

The skinny jean is now making a crossover into the men's fashion world.  The trend of slimmer menswear is popping up on celebrities and rock stars who have begun wearing slender, tight, and even women's jeans.

According to an article in Men's Health Magazine, there is a simple way to determine if jeans are too tight.  Quickly do an "anatomy test. If I--or you--can see any of your frontal anatomy through your pants, they're too tight."

Skinny, tight jeans are certainly not for every man!  Check out the clips below from Seinfeld to see what happens when Kramer tries out the tight jean trend.

 

The Great Debate - Button vs. Zipper Fly

Have you ever wonder about the logic behind a pair of pants that takes an extra 10 seconds to unbutton, an extra 15 seconds to button?  Many can even argue that buttons close the fly less completely and less efficiently than a zipper.  So why do some many of the premium brands only offer button fly jeans?

The button fly was included with the first pair of Levi’s, presumably for the same type of sturdiness provided by the rivets that made jeans last longer than other pants. At some point zipper flies were introduced, and the confusion began.

Comedian Jerry Seinfeld let the world know that he only wears button fly.  During an episode of his hit TV show Jerry stated: "That is one place on my wardrobe I do not need interlocking metal teeth.  It's like a mink trap down there."

What's your stance on this issue?  Do you prefer button or zipper fly jeans? 

 

Fall Denim For Men

I came home from work the other night and sat down to relax and check up on the day's news in the local newspaper.  While reading, I came across an article in the lifestyles section that I have been meaning to share with all those guys out there who are wondering what looks will be hot for fall and winter.  The article, "Standard Time: Deeper Blue Hues and an Authentic Fit Rules Men's Jeans This Fall," was published in the Lowell Sun on September 25, 2007.  

According to the Lowell Sun article, men's denim look this coming fall and winter are reflecting a James Dean look. "The standard fit is the perfect everyday pair of jeans that work for just about every occasion," said Kimberly Terry, spokesperson for Gap stores.  Many men's denim retailers are returning to a more classic look for fall.  According to Terry, "Washes are more subtle, moving away from the more extreme washes of a few years ago."  

This is great news for the guys who are sick of the trendy washes and treatments that go out of style so quickly.  This season, look for a dark, clean wash and classic fit.  Check out Chip and Pepper – Bobby Baby in New Credit to see an example of a classic fitting, dark washed jean.

For the Men: Matching Shoes to Jeans

We have received many messages from men asking how to pair shoes with their jeans for various occasions.  I have been searing through the web and found a few useful resources for all the questioning men reading our blog:

About.com has a whole page about men’s shoes to wear specifically with denim.  About also boasts another article about men’s shoe suggestions in general.

Ehow has a great seven step process to find the shoes to match with your denim perfectly.  I just love having steps, makes everything so much easier to remember.

To make it easy on everyone, here are a few steps and suggestions to remember compiled from everything I’ve read.

Make it a Casual Thing...
Sneakers are always a safe bet for a casual look with jeans.  Some easy to find favorites are Pumas and Adidas.  These brands offer a more retro style offering and can be seen on streets from LA to NYC.

One Step up…
Boots and slip-ons are an easy and not to mention faster alternative to sneakers.  If you’re going the boot route make sure to find something a little more cutting-edge or urban.  Straps, buckles and especially square toes are always sleek and in style.  Unlike women’s boots, Men’s look best in an ankle boot, regardless of style or material.

Lace it Up
Most sites suggest choosing an Oxford or any other lace up loafer based on the shirt you are wearing.  For example, a tailored button down denotes a nice pair of Oxfords but a more casual T-Shirt is better with sneakers.

No Fail Advice Tidbits
Stay away from anything shiny.  Overly shined leather, patent leather or shiny animal skins are a bit over the top when it comes to jeans.  Stick to faded or distressed leather or suede if you have to.

Make sure to match your shoes to your belt.

Any other suggestions?

Is Global Warming Changing the Way We Dress???

Everyone who has seen Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth knows that global warming is no joke but who knew that one of the most obvious effects of the warming trend can be seen in your closets.  A recent article in the Wall Street Journal examines how we as a global community are moving toward “seasonless dressing.” 

The WSJ also claims that “people spend so much time indoors and in cars that their lives are essentially climate-controlled. There's less of a need for bulky sweaters and tweedy woolens.”

So what are designers trying to do to adjust to the climate change?  Liz Claiborne Inc, Target, Kohls and JC Penny are all shifting the way they sell clothes, so they have items on the rack that customers need "month to month, instead of season to season." These companies have been working with climatologists and meteorological consultants to how plan the fabrics and styles that should be available month to month.

Because there are lee dramatic changes between seasons, the chore of switching out your entire wardrobe every few months is no longer necessary.  I wonder if that means that the near future we will be wearing white denim all year round – kind of a scary thought!!!

What do you think about the climate change’s effect of fashion?

The Skinny On Business Casual

There seems to be an external disagreement between old and new schools surrounding what ‘business casual’ is.  The custom of ‘casual Fridays’ has been more accepted in years past, with most organizations launching to a ‘everyday business casual’ state of mind as of the past few years.  Thank you, Silicon Valley, for spreading the idea!!

So…let’s go ahead and define it, shall we?  Or better yet, we will let Wikipedia do it for us:

I am one who likes to dress a bit casually at work.  I am also interested in any way to defend my right to dress more on the casual side.  Sure, capris or skinny jeans might not make the cut, but what about a great trouser cut?  I wear my pair of Orchid Wide Leg Trousers quite a bit with a dress shirt or sweater.  To me, the key to wearing jeans to work is ensuring that the details in the seams and back pockets are simple and the wash in more monochrome and on the darker side instead of lighter washes with a distressed look.

I’ve recently found my silver lining, not to mention new source of rationalization!!  In a recent
Boston.com article, research conducted by Ladders.com was shared.  Ladders polled over 1,000 executives who make more than 100k annually, about their own (and their employers’) view on business casual.  The response to me was great!  Results found that of respondents polled:

- 62 percent said business casual is their standard workplace dress code
- 80 percent of executives prefer to wear more casual attire at work
- 42.2 percent mention that they see more company’s adoption a less formal dress code
- 22.3 percent said the definition of ‘business casual’ has stretched to include JEANS!

On the flip side, however, as reported by USA Today, some employees are finding that their industry does not think business casual is appropriate.  I guess you have to look at business casual through the eyes of your boss, not to mention the industry you work in.  There are helpful hints all over the web, one of which is About.com’s HR section. These sites are especially helpful if you don’t have a written dress code at work.

For a good laugh to see just how far telecommuters will go to stay comfortable at work, click here.

These are problems and questions we all face at some point.  Feel free to share your opinion or story here.

Men's Premium Denim Forum: Style Forum

Men have just as many woes as women finding jeans that fit.  There are countless blogs for women’s fashion, most specializing in specific fit and body issues.  There are resources for women for everything from plus sizes to petite sizes and everything in between.  I have used these sites numerous times for suggestions, product reviews and shopping hints.

But what about the guys?  How do men with athletic thighs find help with fit?  What about the tall and lean men out there?  I think I’ve found one possible solution for this lack of help online.

Style Forum is an active forum with more than 15,000 members.  Registration is free, and the forum is really fun to read and interact with.  They offer categories that run the gamut of men’s fashion from urban to more tailored fashion topics, not to mention a section on fitness and social life suggestions for cities across the globe.  More than anything thing else, I like this forum because of the community members that contribute.  I love reading through the threads and seeing the helpful tone and overall camaraderie between the members.  

I have already found threads that might be helpful to some of our male readers.  One recent thread is a member asking for help finding the right fit for a more athletic thigh.  From the measurements he gives it is clear he falls into the ‘normal’ category when it comes to inseam and waist line, but it seems he still finds most jeans are too tight above the knee.

True Jeans attempts to solve these fit problems by requesting thigh measurements as well as inseam and waist.  To make our predictions that more ‘spot on’ we are also ask multiple choice questions about specific body areas, in fact this might be the most important and useful information we ask in general.

So here’s my question for all you fashionable men: What is your most frustrating fit problem, and what brands/styles have solved it?

Fashion Week Kicks Off With a Bang!

Fashion week is well underway in New York.

Check out style expert Robert Verdi in this video clip as he takes you on a whirlwind tour through the best and most glamorous that fashion week had to offer.  The clip includes interviews with designers Betsey Johnson, Michael Kors, Diane Von Furstenburg, Michael Volbracht for Bill Blass and many more.  Verdi also speaks with celebrities like Joan Rivers and Kim Catrall about the allure of fashion week. 

Check out the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week YouTube site to see more video clips from several of the runway shows. Can't wait to see what is store this week at fashion week!

Designer Trace Ayala Talks About William Rast's Denim Line

William Rast is one of the most popular denim lines on the market today.  With there unique washes and stellar fits, it is no wonder that celebs and regular folks alike cannot get enough of this fashion forward brand.

Justin Timberlake and best friend / partner Trace Ayala launched the line in 2006 and its popularity has skyrockets over the last few months with the help of celebrity endorsements like Jessica Biel and Jessica Simpson.  

In a recent interview with E! News, Ayala, who started his design career making custom designs for music tours and for friends, discusses William Rast’s upcoming fall line, which according to Ayala has an “Elvis/ Sinatra type of vibe.”

Check out the video to learn more about the celebrities who love this line and the technique William Rast uses to achieve a great fitting jean. 

Boston's Fashion Week

New York City is not the only place hosting fashion shows this week.  Boston is also joining in on the fun and hosting its own fashion week from September 7th – 14th.  Some may wonder why Boston chose to host this week long event during New York’s even larger and more distinguished event.  Even with most of big name designer, buyers and fashion advertisers in New York but Boston's fashion week is sure to showcase great designers.  

Unlike New York’s fashion week shows, the Boston shows require an RSVP, but not an invitation, so anyone who is interested can request to reserve a spot via email. There are also several after parties and events to go along with the runways shows that require you to RSVP if you are interested in attending.

If you have time, check out the Boston Design Laboratory at the Hotel Commonwealth on Sunday, September 9th from 11:00AM – 5:00 PM. There will be multiple designers, and vintage couture will be resurrected for the runway.  If you are in or around Boston, I think these events are definitely something worth checking out and supporting local designers! Let me know if you check out any of the events.  I know I am going to try and make it to a few! 

Fashion Rocks Helps Kick Off New Fashion Season

Some of the biggest names in fashion and music joined forces last night at Fashion Rocks ’07.  The concert, which was held at Radio City Music Hall, featured performances from Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Lopez, Usher and many more.  Other heavy hitters, including Jessica Alba, Mischa Barton, Teri Hatcher and Carmen Electra, also came out to celebrate the strong bong between the fashion and music industries.  The concert timing perfectly kicks off a new fashion season as well as celebrating the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. 

Be sure to catch the great fashion and awesome musical performances tonight!  Fashion Rocks airs on CBS tonight at 9PM EST. 

William Rast on E!'s Daily 10

 

You’ve seen Jessica Simpson sporting these sexy jeans everywhere lately.  All of the growing celebrities buzz prompted  E!’s Daily 10 to  featured Justin Timberlake’s William Rast clothing line.  The line, which is inspired by Elvis and Frank Sinatra, has attracted quite a large celebrity following over the past couple of months.  The Daily 10’s host Debbie Matenopoulos went behind the scenes and spoke with JT’s partner Trace Ayala to see how the pair goes about creating a great line of clothing.

Trace describes how the design process begins by choosing which type of denim (Italian, Japanese, American, etc) will be used for a particular style.  Next, the duo decides which type of wash will be applied, whether it will be a dirty wash, a clean wash, or if the denim will be left raw.  Finally, the fitting process begins.  Instead of using one fit model, William Rast uses three very different models and takes the best fit out of the three.

Check out the video clip to learn more about how Jessica Simpson had William Rast design jeans exclusively for her.

 

Zune Digital Media Player Meets WESC Headphones

I recently visited Los Angeles for a wonderful (and long overdue) vacation.  I was on the hunt for the new and upcoming street style that only LA can provide.  Trends and the ‘next big thing’ to reverberate from the west coast over to us on the east coast.

It’s funny to me that after all the Rodeo Drives and Melrose’s that the city offers I found my diamond in the rough from one night out at a club called King King.  There was a photographer from the popular nightlife and events scene named Rich Kim, of Blink of an I Productions.  Kim was mingling among the crowd snapping photos of the attendees and performers with skill and ease.  All of my friends in the LA area, that I was with, kept saying that ‘Rich is the best’ and ‘No one captures what he can’.  So obviously, on my return to Boston I had to check out his site.  Let me tell you my friends weren’t kidding! All the photos featured within the company’s index are nothing short of amazing.

This is where it gets really good.  I noticed that Blink of an I captured a recent event featuring Zune and WESC.  WESC offers their own high-end headphones in addition to their jeans.   At this launch party WESC headphones were displayed with Zune’s popular digital media players along with WESC’s denim and shirt offerings.

Since True Jean’s offers WESC, my interest was sparked.  It is well known that a lot of denim brands offer lifestyle items like sunglasses, handbags, shoes, and outerwear….and well… I guess now media items.  So here’s my question for you: what is your preferred items to buy from your favorite jeans company other than denim?  Personally I have purchased various items from Lucky Jeans, that have nothing to do with their denim line.. To be honest their hooded sweatshirts are constantly in and out of my closet.  Your feedback is welcomed and appreciated.

To See all of the photos from this event go to Blink of an I Production's site where you can see the entire portfolio of the event.  To Contact Blink of an I Productions just look at their event index and click one of the contact boxes at the top of the page.  Furthermore, a whole-hearted thanks to Richard for the OK to reproduce these photos!  I really appreciate it!

Disclaimer: This is NOT a paid post.  It’s plain and simple: love these (and many other of Rich's) photos and the overall lifestyle branding trend we're all seeing so much of.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Weeks Kicks Off in New York

It’s that time of year again.  The fashionistas are flocking to New York City to determine what is hot and what is not for next season during Mercedes Benz Fashion week.  Taking place September 5-12, this year’s events will feature the hottest trends and styles from some of the biggest names in fashion.  Big name designers like Marc Jacobs, Zac Posen and Betsey Johnson will be showing there newest collections and up and coming designers like actress/ fashion icon Chloe Sevigny are participating in the event for the first time.

With over two hundred shows scheduled for New York’s Fashion Week, it can be extremely hard for designers to stand out from the rest of the crowd.  I cannot wait to see what designers have up their sleeves to wow the crowds and highlight their new collections.

Because the clothes can’t make it down the runway on their own, check out New York Magazine for a list of the top ten models to watch during this fashion week.

Streetwear: The Insiders Guide by Steve Vogel

In May 2007 Steven Vogel released the book, Streetwear found here.  Vogel is a freelance writer and critic and has contributed to several international magazines and websites. He is also the Global Special Projects Manager at Burton Snowboards. 

Vogel is an enthusiast for all things street.  In his own blog post announcing Streetwear’s release Vogel writes about his own goals and aspirations behind creating this work:

“What I wanted to achieve with this book is not really that simple to answer with one statement. I wanted to gather all my friends, colleagues and people that have inspired me in one way or other and get them to sit around a table, eat some BBQ and drink beers and talk about our experiences, thoughts, fears, goals and opinions about the subject of streetwear and subsequently this sub culture which has, for all of his, turned from fan, life to work and hopefully still encompasses all these facets…you will not find the who’s who of streetwear here, some people whom I wanted to participate didn’t want to, I didn’t know them or they had no time…I don’t want to preach about what it is streetwear and what it is … Nor are any of the contributors interested in telling you what to think. Each contributor shares their story, their idea’s, their thoughts on their very own personal journey in this sub culture through either interviews and / or short stories that were conducted throughout 2006.”

In addition to his other achievements, Vogel curates the annual streetwear show, 'Untitled'.  Here is some information about the 2007 and 2006 parties .  'Untitled' is part of the BREAD & Butter international street culture tradeshow held in both Berlin and Barcelona every year.

I would suggest to any interested in street or urbanwear to check it out!  If you’ve already read it, or have suggestions on other books on the streetwear sub-culture I ask you to share the wealth in a comment!

To read more of Steven Vogel’s commentary go to his blog featured on Hypebeast.  There are a variety of blogs featured on this site about kicks, jeans, graffiti, art, and music.  All are great reads with an international flavor.

Designer's Chip and Pepper at the 2007 Teen Choice Awards

HollywoodUpClose recently caught up with dynamic twin brothers Chip and Pepper Foster at the 2007 Teen Choice Awards.  The quirky and crazy brothers chatted about the California lifestyle vibe they hope to embody in their clothing line.

The pair also shared their excitement about their recent collaboration with JC Penney to create their new line C7P.  C7P is an awesome new line that will be sold exclusively at JC Penney for affordable prices (everything retails for $34.99 or less).  The twins describe the jeans in their new line as, “the best jean at that price in America.”

Chip and Pepper also offer advice for new designers just getting into the fashion industry, saying “Go for it!” and “work for a good designer and get some training!” 

MySpace Fashionistas

MySpace unveiled the revamped version of MySpace’s Fashion Channel earlier this week on August 28, 2007.  The sites launch further deepens the relationship between the networking site and the fashion industry.  The Fashion Channel will be similar to the existing Music and Movies channels and will allows users to connect with fashion designers, brand and stylish celebrities.  Besides providing you with a way to connect with your favorite designers, the site will also feature video diaries of celebrities’ closets and fashion lives. 

InStyle magazine has signed on to partner with the Fox owned site.  InStyle will share the most up-to-date fashion news and information in a section entitled “InStyle News.”  WhoWhatWearDaily, one of my favorite daily fashion sites, has also partnered with MySpace Fashion. 

To check out the newest channel, go to www.myspace.com/fashion.  While you are browsing the site, be sure to check out True Jeans’ MySpace page and become our friend to receive special updates on sales and specials. 

Let Designer Denim Jeans Take You to the Head of the Class This Back to School Season

The last few weeks of August can only mean one thing – the back to school season is right around the corner.  For many, shopping for back-to-school apparel is a late summer ritual.  

Anyone who is prepare for back to school shopping should check out this must-read story from CNN reporting on the latest trends in shopping for back-to-school apparel.  

As tweens and teens become increasingly savvy about fashion, they are no longer asking for fashion basics to go back to school with.  Instead, they are asking for luxury products, such as $200  handbags and $100-plus designer jeans. 

So what is the major item in the fashion world this back to school season? Denim, varying from pencil skirts to long shorts to different styles, rises and colors of jeans. My absolute favorite trend for back to school denim has to be the wide leg styles that have hit the scene. The wide leg is a soft comfortable cut that is flattering to so many body types that can stylishly take you from class and extra curricular activities.  

What are your favorite back to school trends this season?

Suggestions on Spotting Fake Premium Denim Online and Off

There has always been quite a buzz online about how to avoid buying fake designer clothing.  To all you fakey sellers out there— we are catching on and sharing the information!!.  With the overnight success of premium denim it is no wonder that counterfeit problems will come into play. Sites like eBay are great to haggle on prices and feel more control of your purchases, but it’s not always 'what you see is what you get' on sites like these.  I wanted to write this quick post to let all our readers know about a few helpful hints and websites to help you buy online, and sometimes even in stores with confidence.  

eBay has a great list of resources written by members about the signs to look out for when perusing the site. Some of the suggestions are about brands in particular, such as Diesel, Seven for all Mankind, Rock & Republic and Xxxx Xxxxxxxx (just to name a few) as well as overall advice about identifying authentic vs. fake denim.  Many pictorial guides are offered, and you know we love photos to show the differences in labels, packaging, washes and styles of jeans and comparisons of the differences to look out for.   To be honest, I wouldn’t have known what to look out for before reading through these pieces since we sell 100% authentic denim on True Jeans.

Second City Style also featured a piece from Women’s Wear Daily, or WWD to us avid readers, with a shorter list of ‘what to watch out for’ advice.  One interesting section mentions:

On that note, here are my own suggestions with a little help from eZine @rticles:

- If the price is too low in comparison to store prices, be wary
- Read through an eBay seller’s feedback section, look specifically for reviewers who mention the brand your are looking to purchase
- If there are not enough photos of all the jeans’ labels, or if there are only stock photos of the item, make sure to request pictures of the actual jeans, specifically the labels and back pockets.
-Sure, premium denim comes at a premium price, but there are reasons for this.  In another post on True Life we mentioned that most designer denim is made in the USA, on the tags it should say that the jeans were manufactured in the states.  Japan, China and Thailand are hubs for producing counterfeits of all kinds, so just be careful of that as well.

My final suggestion, and the real motivation for writing this post, is to check out The Honest Forum.  This is an amazing community for premium denim fans!  Sure, the site costs $9.99 for a 25 year membership but let me tell you, it’s definitely worth it.  There is an entire section listing sites that sell fake denim, and mentions of eBay sellers which are known for peddling fakes which I found very useful.  These enthusiasts really know their stuff and are more than willing to help out other community members when something seems a little fishy.  

I hope you find this helpful.  I’d love to hear any other suggestions or counterfeit sites you’ve come across in your online shopping travels.  ‘Cause when you get down to it, there’s power in knowledge and power in numbers!

A Great Site for the Fashion Obsessed

Big time fashionistas out there are probably already familiar with my latest fashion find. For those of you looking for the most up to date fashion hits and misses, WhoWhatWearDaily.com is the place for you.

Founders Katherine Power, a former West Coast editor for Elle, and Hillary Kerr, a veteran of Teen Vogue and Nylon, know all when it comes to the latest fashion news and trends. Each day WhoWhatWearDaily informs its readers what fashionistas celebs are wearing.

You can even sign up for a free email subscription to easily and affordably bring your fashion obsession to your inbox every day!

Help me find the right shoes for my Kasils!!

Doug Asks Julie:
Julie:  I came in for a fitting in May just before I moved to LA - I bought two pair of Kasil jeans.  My question of what kind of shoes do you think go well with these jeans - mine are boot cuts.  My Luchese boots look great with jeans.  My flip-flops and tennis shoes do not.  Also, my formal cap-toe and wing-tip type of dress shoes don't seem appropriate either.  What shoes do you recommend for a 43 year old man going out on the town in jeans in LA?

Julie's Response:
Hi Doug!

My advice to you for your shoe selection would have to be to keep it simple. Simplicity will definitely make it easier for you to transition from day to night.  You can never go wrong with a black or brown shoe; and it seems as if men's fashion shoes are going toward a less chunky, smaller, sleeker sole; like a leather loafer or a trendy sneaker.  Celebrities seen in Kasil Jeans, like Nick Lachey, and Brad Pitt, are usual seen with a t-shirt and a blazer, and a casual dress shoe.  Aldo has a great fall selection, which mixes simplicity with style.  Check out Men Style.com; they have great fashion tips, but also gadgets, travel, and media advice. Also, you might enjoy this great blog called Plopculture.  It's a man living in LA; it's hilarious and honest about style, celebrity and life in LA.

Good Luck!

Julie

A Little Something for Designer Jean Lovers!

 
Ever wonder how your designer jeans get their fantastic detailing and fading on them?  Have you ever been curious to learn how to give your favorite pair of jeans a more worn in look?  If these questions have ever crossed your mind then you should check out The Denim Design Lab's Encyclopedia.  This perfect coffee table book is ideal for all you denim enthusiasts out there.  It contains a tremendous amount of useful information including great historical background and simple step-by-step guides to design your own designer jeans.  The detailed instructions allow you to customize your jeans to perfectly match your personality.  Even if you are not crafty at all, this book will provide you with a wealth of knowledge about how jeans are made from start to finish.  

New Online Fashion Community

Have you ever worn such a killer outfit that you wish you could share it with the world?  Well, a new online community is making it possible to share your cool style with the online world.  StyleMob, a new community for street fashion enthusiasts, allows you to upload images of your outfits and search and rate other individuals’ outfits.  Style Mob users also have the ability to mob other people's looks! As part of the mob, you vote and choose the day's top-rated street fashion.  Check out Groove Effect for a full review of the site. 

Style Mob is still in super-exclusive, pre-beta mode but is set to go public by the end of this week so make sure you check it this fun and refreshing way to share your awesome style!

 

What is Your Denim Personality?

Since it is Friday, I figured I should share a little fun with you.  I came across this denim identity quiz at Glam.com.  Take a break from your work and give it a try. 

According to the quiz, I am a Chip and Pepper - No need for anyone to take a chill pill when they’re around you. Your casual, laid-back, and happy-go-lucky personality is soothing, comfortable, and approachable, just like a pair of too-cute and relaxed Chip and Pepper jeans.

Diesel "Liquid Space" Holographic Fashion Show

Diesel’s latest fashion show was anything but ordinary.  The show, which was held in Florence on July 21, 2007, combined all aspects of visual art, with the models walking the runway accompanied by holographic sea creatures.  The sea creatures were in mid-air and seemed to be interacting with the models in an underwater runway.  This was the first fashion show that ever had real models showing with holographic models. 

For a review of the show, check out Groove Effect.  According to Sean, who attended the show, "the Liquid Space show used holographic projectors and live models simultaneously, blended them together seamlessly with a great soundtrack, and ultimately produced one of the best multimedia events I've seen in some time… the visuals were so well done and integrated into the show so seamlessly that they were the real stars of the event."

Fashion for the Blind

 

Shopping online can be a difficult task but just imagine trying to shop for clothing online without being able to see.  Rochester Institute of Technology students, Jaimen Brill and Asmah Abushagur, recognized the need for a site to help give the blind more freedom and independence while shopping and created White Cane Label. The idea for launching a site that addresses the shopping needs of the blind started off as a school project and could possibly be the next big thing in internet shopping. 

White Cane Label's site will be driven by sound and not by images and is expected to launch sometime this fall.  Customers will be asked a series of questions to help identify their personal style and put together a list of clothing recommendations, each with a detailed description that will be made accessible through special keyboards and voice content.

All clothing offered for the site will have Braille labels for size, style, washing instructions and suggestions for mixing and matching pieces.

To read more about White Cane Label, check out their Press Release and read about them in Democrat and Chronicle or All Headlines News.

 

Chip and Pepper Team Up with JC Penny

Interview with CEO and Founder of WESC - Part 2

Nylon Magazine recently interviewed Gregor Hagelin, founder and CEO of WESC.  I recently found this interview and though it was a great follow up to the WESC post from a few weeks ago.  In this interview, Gregor goes into detail about his background as a avid skateboarder back in the '80s.  It was his love of skateboarding that inspired him to initially create a clothing line for that culture. 

 The clothing line has since evolved to include all elements of street fashion.  Street fashion, according to Gregor, is "being developed all the time. The aesthetic of it is to somehow find the Nordic quality and we made an agreement not to follow the same colors/trends for that year. We said from the beginning that we would never be that company that goes to a garment trade show to buy what all the big dogs are buying. Instead, we try to be leaders instead of followers. When we bring stuff to the table nowadays, people are ready for it." 

To check out the full Nylon Magazine interview click here. 

Hudson Jeans' Fall Winter 2007 Lookbook

Hudson jeans have been one of my favorite brands for quite some time now.  Their incredible fit, unique washes and super-soft fabrics have made my Hudson’s one of my most beloved pairs of jeans.  

Hudson recently made news during their photo shoot for the Fall Winter 2007 lookbook.  “Pushing the envelope of artistic expression and creative thought, Hudson shot their Fall Winter 2007 Lookbook photo shoot live during 944 Magazine’s one year anniversary party at the Stoli Hotel in Hollywood, California.”

Hudson could not have picked more fitting celebration to shoot at. The magazine, which focuses on fashion, lifestyle and culture, embodies everything the brand represents.  Check out the video and let me know what you think of Hudson’s photo shoot ideas.

William Rast UK Launch Party

 

Justin Timberlake may be busy ‘bringing sexy back’ but he had enough time to squeeze in an appearance at the UK launch party for his clothing line, William Rast.  Timberlake made the time to promote his clothing line while in London for the UK leg of his concert tour.

will.i.am Parteners with Antik Denim

Yet another celebrity is introducing a clothing line.  will.i.am, rapper and music producer who is best known as the front man for The Black Eyed Peas, has teamed up with the fashion house Blue Holdings Inc. to create his own denim fashion line.  The line, which will be called i am Antik, is an extension of Blue Holdings’ Antik Denim Collection.  

will.i.am, whose real name is William James Adams Jr, was a student at the Fashion Institute of Design in Los Angeles prior to joining The Black Eyed Peas.  will.i.am’s background in fashion design certainly sets him apart from other celebrities –turned designers out there.  Blue Holdings CEO Paul Guez says he approached will.i.am because, unlike most celebrities who want their own clothing lines, will.i.am is an actual designer with the knowledge, tools and love of fashion

In this YouTube clip, will.i.am discusses his dream to launch and market clothing in a manner that combines music and fashion. "I want to design the line and score it the way a composer scores a film and tour the collection like a band will tour an album," he says.

i am Antik is scheduled to debut in August in specialty stores.  

Interview with CEO and Founder of WESC

 

 

While doing a little bit of searching on YouTube, I came across this pretty interesting interview with AJ Jackson of Label Networks that I thought was worth sharing.  During the interview Jackson speaks with Gregor, the CEO and founder of WESC, who is asked about the brand, its marketing strategy and the brand’s products.

WESC is Swedish based street fashion brand for ‘life after skate.’  The company was founded in January 2000 and quickly gained a cult following with its unique line of street or ‘life after skate’ styles.  This street fashion company has a strong background in skateboarding and this deeply rooted background has enabled the brand to grown and gain a terrific reputation.  It has been over two years since the company began doing business in the United States and they are now selling more women's clothing than men's. 

During the interview, Gregor takes a bit of time to discuss the major changes that have occurred within the skate clothing industry.  Several years ago, skateboard stores where the only places that products like those made by WESC could be found.  These skateboard stores were slowly replaced by street wear stores which in turn where replaced by active wear boutiques as the demand for quality active wear clothing grew.  WESC fits into the gap perfectly over the years.  The company has thrived on the notion that clothes are what you wear while you do stuff.

WeActivists express the further idea that WESC apparel is the clothing worn by people who do interesting things.  WEactivists are creative people who endorse the brand and the lifestyle that the brand represents.  They are artists, photographers, skateboarders, actors, film makers that are extremely good at what they do.  WESC strives to make the best possible product for each and every WeActivist so that their clothing can reflect the way they want to live their lives. 

The brand name speaks for itself.  WESC creates quality and feel of the highest caliber making it perfect for casual or formal settings.  Check out some of the styles of WESC jeans that True Jeans is offering and see for yourself how WESC truly does make jeans for people to wear ‘while they do stuff.’

Dressing for the Office - What Every Man Should Avoid

 

 

We have all make fashion mistakes in the past, but these mistakes can be avoided with just a little knowledge.  A recent post on Sharp By Design discusses some of the most common men’s fashion don’t for the office.  This list of fashion faux-pas included wearing: 

-    Ill fitting suits
-    Clashing Patterns
-    Poor Quality Ties
-    Un-tucked shirts
-    Worn-out Shoes
-    Wrinkled Clothes
-    Mixing Casual with Dressy

These are great ideas, but it may be hard to understand how to incorporate them into your daily dressing routine.  To avoid clashing patterns I think you shouldn’t try and make so much of an effort to look fashionable that you end up overdoing it.  Less is certainly more when it comes to dressing yourself stylishly.  If you have a busy (patterned) shirt it is best to balance out any outfit with a simple, great fitting pair of jeans or slacks.  There is nothing wrong with a little color or a little pattern, but use sparingly.  By all means buy fashionable pieces if they suit you. Mix and match them with the basics in your wardrobe. You don't have to wear every single trendy item you own all at once.

Quality and fit are two of the things True Jeans stresses when buying jeans.  These qualities should also be considered when purchasing any item of clothing.  Poor quality looks cheap even to the untrained eye.  Fit is probably the most important thing to consider when buying clothes because no matter what, an ill fitting garment will never look good.  You CANNOT look fabulous in a suit that does not fit properly.

While Sharp By Design’s rules can be considered a good guideline, it is my opinion that there is a big difference between being stylish and just following the latest men’s fashion trends and rules. To avoid being a fashion victim at the office try not to follow all the latest men’s fashion trends without thinking of whether they suit your body shape, looks, or age.  You should also make sure your fashion style shows off your personality.  

Hopefully these tip will ensure that your fashion-sense or lack there-of is not offending the eyes of your colleagues or recklessly endangering your career!

How to Choose the Right Jeans - What Factors into Fit?

It may seem like a silly question to ask, but many people are curious about the elements that factor into great fitting jeans.  With so many different styles, cuts, colors and rises, it is difficult and frustrating to find the right pair of jeans.

A recent video interview with Anna Mormina, manager of Parasuco Jeans in Montreal, attempts to answer the question of what goes into finding your perfect fit.  During the interview, Mormina mentions that many customers are drawn to darker denim because of its ability to slim out your silhouette.  

While finding a wash that is appealing is key, even more important is finding the correct cut for your body type.  Whether you figure is flattered by a bootcut, wide-leg, straight leg or skinny has a great deal with your personal preference.  Don’t hesitate to ask Julie for tips on choosing the perfect jeans for your unique body.  

Shopping For Men's Denim Isn't As Easy As You Thought!

In today’s world, women are not the only ones who crave the perfect fitting pair of jeans.  Men also are in search of a great fitting, timeless pair of jeans that they can wear either to casual Friday’s at the office, for a night out on the town, or even to those afternoon sporting events.  A recent post on AskMen.com advises male readers to stick to “tried and true denim styles” while shopping. Most importantly, AskMen.com encourages its readers to purchase a pair of jeans that they feel comfortable in.  This may seem like a simple task but for most men it is far from that.  
The search for these perfect jeans can be difficult due to the unique needs men have.  

I think it is a common misconception that most women believe that men have it easy when they shop for jeans.  I know most of my girlfriends believe that men simply need to know their waist and inseam measurements to be able to shop.  That, however, is far from the truth.  Just like women, men have problem areas and cannot simply fit into any style of jeans.  

Josh from Houston explains the unique problems he faces while shopping for jeans, stating, “For almost my entire life I have dreaded buying jeans. I am 6'9" tall and I weigh 280 pounds, and purchasing clothes that actually fit has to be one of the most time consuming things I do.”

Randy from Friendswood, Texas has a completely different problem; “Being a weightlifter, my thighs are much larger than 'normal'. I also prefer a short rise. I have yet to find jeans that are just right. Levi 550's are close. 560's are too baggy. I have a 38" waist, but need 40" jeans to fit all the other stuff into.”

As it turns out, both Josh and Randy’s problems were solved by Chip and Pepper’s Big Pickle jeans.  This relaxed style is great for men with an athletic build.  Because they are a bit roomier in the leg, they make plenty of room for your studly thighs and butt.  

What has your own experience been while shopping for jeans?  I can wait to hear both your horror and success stories! 

Photo Retouching - The Shocking Extremes Taken By the Beauty Industry To Create Perfection

Photo retouching has long been the fashion industry’s dirty little secret.  The ability to digitally retouch photos is certainly not a new technique used by the fashion and beauty industry but just how much has this art of digital manipulation changed the way we view true beauty?  Magazines have come under fire for the extreme measures they take to digitally ‘perfect’ people.  All of these false images that we are bombarded with every time we turn on a television or open a magazine are certainly contributing to the unrealistic body ideals and negative body image of both women and men all over the world.

Dove’s Campaign for Real Beauty recently featured a video clip showing the retouching process done to a model from start to finish.  Dove, whose recent advertising campaigns focus on beauty coming in all shapes, sizes and ages, call out the drastic measures some companies take to create the perfect picture.  It is quite shocking to see how the finished product looks so completely different from the starting shot.  How could seeing all these artificially altered images be good for anyone’s perception of their own body?

 

An even more shocking video posted on the blog Back in Skinny Jeans highlighting the extremes of photo retouching as at least 100 pounds are digitally taken off a model during the retouching process.  Watching this will opening your eyes to the way technology can be used to give any model the ‘digital diet’ treatment and leave you wondering just how ethical it is to practice these extreme retouching techniques.

What do you think?  Are critics right when they say photo retouching has gone too far and is dramatically harming American’s body image?

Men's Summer Denim Trends

 

 

With summer just around the corner, it is just as important for all of you guys out there to look good while keeping cool in the summer heat.  A recent post on Nothin’ But Fashion notes that men don’t “care about ‘skinny jeans’ and tube tops,” but instead are interested in reading about fashion that pertains to them.  

For summer, one of the biggest trends to hit the men’s denim world is lightweight denim.  The ultra lightweight fabrics not only look and feel amazing but also help to keep you cool as the temperatures begin to sore.  Blue Cult’s relaxed lightweight jean, which comes in two washes, is a terrific relaxed bootleg jean for the guy looking for both style and comfort.  The Manic wash's blue-grey tint will certainly set you apart from the rest of the crowd, while the Crystal wash offers a more traditional denim blue tone.

All you active men out there know that it is often difficult to find jeans that fit with your active lifestyles.  One of True Jeans’ newest brands, WESC, is perfect for just that.  With its roots in the skateboard and snowboard culture, WESC’s designs denim that sets its own rules and follows its own trends.  WESC’s Lower jean in either Rinse or Graze will be perfect for the guy looking for a snugger fit and straight leg.  

Finally, for all you fashion forward guys out there, you need to check out Justin Timberlake’s line, William Rast.  The William's great back pocket design and dark Resin wash is the perfect combination of funky detailing and classic styling.  

Don’t wait until the thermometer hits the triple digits to look good and stay cool this summer!  

Premium Denim at Premium Prices

Practicality may have once ruled over price in the denim market but that is certainly no longer the case.  With denim prices now soaring well into the triple digits, I am sure consumers are starting to wonder just what exactly they are paying for. 

An October 2005 San Diego Union Tribune article, entitled "Denim Has Legs,"  takes a closer look at the explosion of higher priced premium-jeans.  The article acknowledges that within the past five years the denim market has gone through some serious changes.  It has been "transformed, with so-called premium - which provides a superior fit and styling- becoming one of the hottest segments of the apparel industry. 

 

 

What exactly factors into these higher priced denim jeans?  To begin with, premium denim lines are almost always created exclusively from Japanese or Italian denim.  More time is taken in fit factor considerations when it comes to premium denim, many brands cater to different body styles or are constructed in a way to attract a certain shape of customer.  Even though denim is important, many of the premium brands are entirely manufactured in the United States, raising the total cost of manufacturing and thus this cost carries over to customers. Finally, and lets be real here, the ‘celebrity factor' cannot be overlooked.  Names like Jessica Simpson and even Justin Timberlake are synonymous with the most popular denim brands there are.  Elise Carter, a blogger at StyleDash mentions this in a blog post earlier this year.

So why do I think doling out money on a great pair of fitting jeans is a good idea?  I truly believe that a great pair of jeans makes for a smart investment because you can virtually wear them everywhere.  With many styles, washes and cuts to choose from, there is a pair of jeans for almost every occasion.  Whether it's to the office, out with friends or on a hot date, you simply cannot go wrong with a terrific fitting pair of denim jeans!

What do you think?  Is premium denim a wise investment?

 

 

What is an Orginial Hem?

Have you ever wondered how to get your jeans to be the perfect length and still preserve their unique styling details and leg opening?  Well, the answer is simple.  An original hem (sometimes called a tricky hem or European hem) maintains the integrity of your jeans because the original hem of the jean is kept in tact. Original hems can be done be cutting the jeans or by following the  uncut method.  Daily Denim agrees that original hems may change the common misconceptions people have about hemming jeans.  Jeans, just like almost every other item of clothing, may need a bit of tailoring to achieve a perfect fit.  It just so happens that length is the easiest alteration you can make to help you achieve a perfect fitting pair of jeans.  Original hems are the perfect solution for anyone who does not want to loose the signature look of their jeans.

Sure, there are some common misconceptions about what an original hem may do to hurt the look of your denim.  In a great post on DailyDenim a few of these were mentioned, such as: The flare is lost once hemmed, getting clothing hemmed is a hassle, even issues having to do with stitching and destruction on the hem being lost once hemmed is discussed.  Many of these common assumptions are disproved in this blog post.

True Jeans is now trying to take some of the hassle out of getting your jeans hemmed; we are offering original hemming service for $15.00 per pair.  Good tailors are usually able to alter jeans using the original hem method for a slightly higher cost than a regular hem.  To learn more about various hemming methods, check out Dacia Ray.  This post has great instructions and visual aids to guide you through the hemming process.

Don't let the inseam length dictate which pair of jeans you wear. Choose your fashion, don't let fashion choose you!

The Perfect Jeans for Active Lifestyles

With the hectic daily lives we all lead, it is no wonder I constantly find myself reaching for my favorite pair of jeans to keep me comfortable throughout my busy days.  Fashion trends my come and go but I am faithful to my jeans because they are just so darn comfortable. Women and men today are more active than they have ever been and they need jeans that fir into their busy lifestyles. 

With the wide variety of cuts, fabrics and washes available in the denim market, it has never been easier to dress for an active lifestyle.  A lightweight jean with a little bit of stretch and a mid-rise, like Red Engine's Midrise Bootcut, provides you with the perfect amount of comfort without compromising any style.  Kasil's Tribeca trouser is another terrific option for women like me who are constantly on the go.  The trouser cut of these jeans make them perfect for the boardroom and the unique wash can easily be dressed up for meeting your friends for cocktails.  Active men also have plenty of denim options to keep them comfortable while still looking great.  Chip and Pepper uses ultra soft denim and features unique washes. Check out the Big Pickle, which is roomier in the thigh more additional comfort, for that perfectly relaxed fit. 

What do you think?  What types of styles, cuts, and fabrics accommodate your active lifestyle?

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