How to Shop for Jeans Online ?

Shopping for jeans can be challenging, particularly online. ​Here are the key denim measurements you should have on top of your mind before looking for jeans. 

R​ISE:

The front rise is the distance from the middle of the crotch seam (right between your legs) to the top of the front of the waistband. High-rise jeans are around 11-12″, mid-rise jeans are in the 9-10″ range, and low rise is 7-8″.
Your figure, your long or short torso, and your general comfort level will determine the ideal rise for you.

The best way to figure out your ideal rise is simply to measure the rise on your favorite jeans. And most websites provide that info, so if your favorite jeans are still available online, you can look it up that way.

​INSEAM:

An inseam is the length of the inner leg seam on jeans or pants starting from the groin to the ankle. The longer your legs are, the higher your inseam will be, while petite sizing will have a shorter inseam. ​

You usually take this measurement on the inside of the pant leg. Lay them out flat, folded in half, to get the most accurate measurement.
Once again, to determine which inseam length you want, it’s best to measure a pair of jeans you like. And you may want a few different options, depending on what shoes you are wearing or what style you’re going for. I keep several different lengths in my closet.

LEG OPENING:

This is simply the width of the bottom of the hem of the jeans, but before it’s sewn together.
To measure the leg opening, lay the bottom cuff flat and measure from one seam to the other. Then take that measurement and double it. For example, most skinny jeans have a 10″ leg opening, and when you lay them flat, they will measure 5″ across at the hem.
The knee measurement is sometimes listed, but it isn’t important unless you’re comparing flare or bootcut jeans, and then it’s nice to have so you can compare it to the leg opening.

With Love,

Charline Z, Personal Stylist - Los Angeles