Designer Directories
Welcome to the DenimGuide at Grechen's Closet!
The DenimGuide, compiled from months of research and lots and lots of input from women like you, is designed to be the most comprehensive guide to buying high-end denim online. To add your own review, go to the DenimGuide Form, otherwise, read on to navigate through the DenimGuide.
View a 'Snapshot' of the women who helped build the DenimGuide
Find out which jeans are the all-time favorites, and which ones you should try for your body type
General Tips for buying high-end Denim online:
- Denim sizes are measured according to your waist size, in inches, and run from sizes 24 to 32. Generally, if you are a regular size 0-2, your denim size will be 24-25. Size 2-4 = denim size 26-27, size 4-6 = denim size 28-29, size 8-10 = denim size 30-31, size 12 = denim size 32.
- If the denim is stretch, sometimes you can size down, which means that if you are a size 32 in a non-stretch style, you may want to try a 30 or 31 in a stretch style.
- If denim is 'True to Size' it generally means that it corresponds closely to the size chart above. If it runs big, then you can go down one or two denim sizes from your regular size. If the brand/style runs small, or 'slim,' then you should go up one or two sizes.
- If you have curves you want to even out, or a behind you want to flatten, the stretch styles will not generally be the best for you. They are very comfortable, but not as slimming as rigid styles. If you do buy stretch (which I do) look for thicker denim with more structure.
- If you have a tummy, look for higher rise styles that will give you more coverage.
- How many pairs of jeans should you own? Of course that's all a matter of personal preference, but here are some of our suggestions: you should have one pair for 'going out' or 'dressing up' like a trouser style or dark denim with a long leg. For the weekend, hem one pair of jeans short enough to wear with trainers - please don't try and roll up your long jeans for the weekend, they won't look right. Have one stretch style for comfort and one pair of knock-em dead jeans for dates or spying on your ex.
- Last thing, if you do not own at least one pair of designer jeans, I would not suggest you buy your first pair online (unless you buy from Nordstrom where you can return items in-store for free, or other online boutiques where they offer free shipping and returns). When buying online, it is helpful to have a frame of reference; one pair of jeans that fit you well and that you can use to compare other brands/styles. If you do buy online, be prepared to purchase several pairs and return the ones that don't work.
- Sometimes buying high-end denim can seem almost like a second job. But there is something uniquely satisfying about finding THE perfect pair of jeans. Once you do, you'll be addicted to how you look and feel in them, and there's no turning back. Enjoy the ride!