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Don't let finding jeans make you blue, guys

By Korin Miller | kmiller@am-ny.com

March 24, 2008

American Eagle (Handout)

All men are not created equal. And neither are their jeans.

When it comes to finding that perfect pair, "Guys really do have just as many problems as women," says Jessica Arredondo, co-founder of TrueJeans.com. "I just think they don't complain about it as much."

Dying to find demin that fits in all the right places? We've got you covered -- whatever your body type.

Thin

Levi Strauss 510s, $54

Only the trim 'n' toned should sport the latest trend in denim -- skinny jeans. But it can be tough to find a pair that's, well, skinny enough. Levi's super slim 510s adhere to legs from thigh to toe, leaving little to the imagination.

Bonus: They're unisex

Muscular

7 For All Mankind bootcut jeans in Melbourne, $189

Athletic builds can be the hardest to fit into a pair of jeans, according to Jessica Arredondo, co-founder of TrueJeans.com (KORIN'S NOTE: INCLUDED HER FIRST REFERENCE TWICE B/C THIS WILL BE CAPTION-STYLE). Many men who try to squeeze full thighs and a small waistline into a pair of pants end up buying a size too large -- and a belt to hold things up. A bootcut with a bit of stretch, like those made by 7 For All Mankind, helps balance out legs and hugs the waist.

Avoid: Skinny jeans

Short

Jib Hunt loose straight fit, $94

A tailored straight leg with a dark wash is a good option for men who want to appear taller. And shorter men should pay special attention to the length of their jeans -- too much fabric around the angles can make legs look stumpy. "It's always a good rule of thumb to make sure that the hem of the pant leg meets the top of your shoe sole," says designer Jib Hunt.

Avoid: Cuffing the hem of jeans

Tall

Martin & Osa low-rise, very straight leg, $78

Want to show off those long legs? Fitted jeans with a straight leg "tend to elongate and slim the frame by fooling the eye that there is one continuous, straight line," says Levi's Brett Anderson.

Also try: Levi's 511 skinny jean

Work

William Rast billy flare, $220

Ditch the faded jeans and opt for a dark wash in a classic cut for work. The darker color "dresses things up a little," says Arredondo. Also try: Diesel Industry five-pockets

Evening out

Diesel Dughan stretch jeans

With a dark wash, tailored fit and straight leg, Diesel's Dughan jeans can easily be mistaken for slacks. Translation: They're perfect for a night on the town.

Also try: Chip & Pepper's 87 straight leg jean

Weekend

American Eagle low-rise bootcut jean in bohemian wash, $59.50

Frayed, faded or scuffed -- anything goes on the weekend, provided it's comfortable. American Eagle does the breaking-in for you with their bohemian wash. Also try: True Religion's ultra-soft Bobby bootcut jeans