The Fall Jean Debate: Wide vs. Skinny

The opposite of what is overly-popular is always the "new" shape. Skinny jeans were big last fall, so big legs are back.

But don't throw away your skinnies yet! Come fall/winter they will still be popular, mostly because it's hard to give up the functionality of the skinny jean. When boot season arrives and you can just tuck 'em in and not worry about getting the bottom of you pants ruined in the harsh weather. And their sexy.

The Wide leg, however, can be sexy if paired with heels and something fitted or tucked in on top, Studio 54 style. Look for a medium to high-rise, and avoid frumpy at all costs.

For those of you as OCD as me, here's a pros (and a few cons) list to help you shop this season:

Option 1. Wide Ones
-Comfortable to wear in hot months, and well, just more comfortable period.
-Look great with heels and flats
-Can transition to workplace as a trouser if a dark wash
-An alternative to the skinny jeans you see on MisShapes wannabes everywhere
-Look for a wide leg that is fitted on top and falls straight down from the thigh, not fitted at the thigh and then flared.
Try: Citizens of Humanity Hutton high rise

Option 2. Skinnies
-Tucked into boots is functional for escaping the muck of NYC streets
-Cute with flats
-Perfect to balance longer tops and full trapeze-style tops still popular this fall
-Worn with pointy-heels, skinnies can be trashy and a little dated (unless that's your idea of dressing ironic). If your going to wear high-heels with super tight jeans, try a less severe, rounded toe.
Try: Cheap Monday, J Brand

Option 3. In-Between
-If your looking to add a narrow leg jean to your wardrobe, your best bet is to bypass purchasing a new pair of skin tight skinnies and opt for a straight leg jean (in between a bootcut and a skinny)
-Straight legs look great in a low to medium rise with a shirt tucked in.
-A straight leg is more flattering than super-tight jeans on bodies with short legs or wider hips and a great option for those who refuse to wear skin-tights.
Try: J. Crew Matchstick Jean, James Straight Leg