A Guide to High-Waisted Denim

Apparently high-waisted jeans make your butt, thighs, and hips look huge. For some of us, that is good news! I know that the skinny bias in fashion is well-pronounced and that some women do not want to hear about the woes of the thin, but petite girls have troubles too! I hate the phrase “normal body types”, which is usually used to describe a woman who is thicker than model thin. But I’m a naturally small woman, and I consider my body type to be just as “normal” as anyone else’s. I hate that people attack the clothing that looks good on our body types, in favour of something more flattering to the “average” woman. One trend that has gone under attack recently is the high-waisted jean; and don’t get me started on the high-waisted SKINNY jean – that could get physical. Photo: Anna Sui S/S 2008.

But the truth is that individuals just need to learn to dress their body type! Whatever you look like, there is a style that is flattering to your body. Embrace that style, and work it. The offerings for "plus" sizes are growing everyday, and you’d be surprised what a little tailoring can do. I’m sick of these fashion critics saying that what looks good on the runway doesn’t always translate to real life. I personally love the high-waisted look, and when worn in the right way, by the right woman, it is hot.

For those who are considering the look, please take heed. Unless you’re tall and thin, the wide-legged look is not for you. You will end up looking like you’re wearing mom jeans, with a diaper. Try a tailored straight leg instead. Curvy women should try the style in a pair of trouser shorts or a fitted pencil skirt. It will take in your waist and accentuate your hips, giving you a lovely hourglass shape. On the other hand, to camouflage wide hips, choose a style with detailing on the front (buttons or pockets) to break up the wide piece of fabric. If you’re petite, then the high-waisted skinny jean is actually the perfect choice for you.

Above are some candids of two of my style icons, Kate Moss and Janet Han of GetJanet Productions, rocking this style. Cute right? So as a final note to you nay-sayers: the skinny and high-waisted jean are far from dead. Get over it.