Stretch denim looks different from the way jeans look. The best thing with these jeans is that they have the look of denim and the elasticity of the elastic fabrics. Therefore, the style of jeans comes out to be comfortable with a good fit and it accommodates all body types.
However, there is a little bit of learning curve in buying stretch denim because the type of stretch, fabric mix, and style can all make a big difference with fit and comfort. This guide takes you through everything you might need to know to buy the perfect pair of stretch jeans, starting from understanding fabric blends to finding the best it for your lifestyle.
What Is Stretch Denim?
Stretch denim refers to the combination of cotton-based traditional denim with a little percentage of elastic fibers, which include elastane, spandex, or Lycra. This makes it stretchable; in this case, it is able to create the jeans comfortable and flexible as stretchy and relaxed compared to the normal non-stretch denim.
Traditionally, stretch denim includes up to 5% or less of elastic material, though the more it reaches up to that range, the more flexible it becomes.
Stretch denim is a good balance of style and comfort. It gives you the classic look of denim but added flexibility, so you can wear these jeans on a daily basis, active movement, and even sitting for hours on end.
Types of Stretch Denim and Their Differences
Stretch denims are not all equal! Various types differ in the amount of stretch, which influences how well the jeans fit and feel. Here are the primary types:
- Comfort Stretch – This type of denim contains about 1% elastane. This offers a slight level of stretch, so you can wear jeans that will be comfortable yet retain the constructed look. Comfort stretch is perfect for the classic dresser that wants just a little stretch.
- Moderate Stretch – With about 2% elastane, moderate stretch denim has an excellent balance of stretch and structure. It is apt for those who want jeans to move with them but are not willing to lose shape.
- High Stretch – Jeans with a content of 3%-5% elastane. High-stretch jeans ensure the maximum comfort and flexibility possible. They feel soft and snug, adapting closely to one’s body. High stretch jeans are perfect for such people who want jeans like a “second skin, fit for active days or endless hours of wear”.
Knowing the types will help guide you in determining how much of a stretch you require. Let’s talk about two other important considerations when picking stretch denim.
Choosing Your Fabric Blend
Stretch jeans come in various blends but are usually made of cotton-based blends with elastic fibers from spandex or Lycra. Here are the most common blends:
- 98% Cotton, 2% Elastane – This mix gives you a nice balance of structure and stretch. It feels like traditional denim but allows a bit more movement.
- 92% Cotton, 8% Elastane – Jeans with this mix are extremely stretchy. The higher elastane content makes the fabric soft and flexible, similar to leggings. These jeans feel snug and conform closely to your body shape.
- Polyester Blends – Some stretch jeans contain polyester for more durability. Polyester makes the material resistant to wear and tear, meaning your jeans might be able to last longer. This blend often feels smooth but may not be as breathable as 100% cotton.
Choosing the right fabric blend depends on what you prefer in terms of comfort and style. More elastane content means more stretch, while blends with more cotton offer a sturdier feel.
How to Determine the Right Fit for Your Body Type
The right fit in stretch jeans is all about balance. Here’s how to find the best fit based on body type and preference:
Slim Fit
Slim fit jeans will fit closely along the body from hip to ankle. Perfect fit is suitable for those who lean or are athletic in shape. Comfortable stretchiness of the slim-fit jean.
Skinny Fit
These are skinny jeans, tight fitting from the hip down to the ankle. With high-stretch denim, the skinny fit would allow comfortable clothing against the body. Best suited for someone looking for that tight, trendy style.
Bootcut Fit
Bootcut jeans hug closely towards the thighs and flare out from the bottom. This fit style is great for those who have broader hips or those who prefer to have a broader fit. Stretch in bootcut jeans allows one to move around easily while retaining the classic look.
Relaxed Fit
Relaxed fit jeans have loose fittings in the thighs and around the hips. They do not hug the body much and come with a very comfortable and laid-back look. The stretch denim adds flexibility and makes them even more comfortable for casual wear.
Straight Fit
These are jeans with the straight width of the thigh to the ankle. A person who would want a classic look yet still wear some stretch is suited well by this pair. These are comfortable while not compromising on their tailored look.
Each style is different, so think about your needs for comfort and the look you prefer when you choose a fit.
Knowing How Rise Can Affect Your Stretch Jeans
Rise is just the distance from the seam at the crotch area to the waistband of the jeans. It is another factor in comfort and also in the look:
- Low-Rise – Low-rise jeans hang below the waist, near the hip. This is a very relaxed and casual fit, so it’s pretty comfortable to wear with short tops.
- Mid-Rise – Mid-rise jeans sit a little below the natural waist. This rise will suit most body types. It’s comfortable, versatile, and works just as well with shorts as it does with long tops.
- High-Rise – High-rise jeans sit above the natural waist. This style creates a smooth, contoured shape and works well with tucked-in shirts. High rise stretch jeans have a tight fit around the waist for added comfort.
Choose the rise that feels best for you-it will affect comfort as well as style.
Tips for Buying Stretch Jeans Online
Stretch jeans are best purchased online, considering you will not have an opportunity to try them on. Here are some tips to ensure you get the right fit and style:
Check the Size Chart – Every brand has different sizes. Read the chart of the brand and take your measurements to get a perfect fit.
- Read Reviews – Customer reviews usually give a good impression about the fit, comfortability, and stretch of the jeans. Take notice of true-to-size comments.
- Review Return Policies – A hassle-free return policy can be extremely useful if the jeans purchased don’t fit as the buyer anticipated. Determine if it has free return.
- Know Your Favorite Blend – If you know you prefer a certain percentage of stretch, look for that specific blend. That will ensure the jeans are going to feel the way you want them to.
Following these steps makes shopping online and finding good-fitting jeans easier to do.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buying stretch denim comes down to understanding what makes up a fabric blend, fit types, and comfort preferences. Remember, you will have different kinds of stretch levels in your stretch jeans.
These levels are from very minimally stretched to extremely stretched with an utterly different feel. Pick your fabric mix according to comfort and also consider body type while selecting a fit.
With stretch denim, there’s no need to forgo style for comfort; rather, a well-selected pair of stretch jeans is there to keep you comfortably fresh, looking great and being ready for anything.
