I’m planning to do some capsule wardrobe collections over the next few weeks in the hope that Spring will at some point show its face. Jeans of course are always the lynchpin of a casual wardrobe and so I thought we should focus on where they have settled as the transition from skinnies continues. As we’ve already discussed, a key shape for Spring / Summer 18 jeans is the wide leg crop. I’m enjoying wearing my dark denim ones but I’m finding they work best as a statement jean. I still want a pair of easy jeans that I can just throw on without having to think.

As you know I like to be quite forensic about these things so I’m focussing on the cut that has settled at street level at the moment. It’s the straight leg crop and it’s nothing new but let’s see how people are wearing it. All of these street styler images have come from trending Pinterest boards (Look 1| Look 2| Look 3| Look 4| Look 5| Look 6).

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So, what do we notice about Spring / Summer 18 jeans?
  • legs are cut slightly wider than last year
  • the frayed hem is still around for those who like it
  • the wash is light to mid blue
  • the denim is stiff
  • the ‘mom jean’ midriff has moved on – these are high waisted but they hug the waist and hips
  • the jean is the most casual element of the outfit
  • tops are worn tucked in (you can get away with a semi-tuck to avoid bulk)
  • the ankle is erogenous, either left bare (and extended by a mule or sling-back) or defined by a sock boot
  • shoes are elegant but they don’t have to be high
  • these jeans can be worn now with boots until the sun shows its face

So you see although your heart sinks at the thought of jeans continuing to evolve, this is actually a very wearable look. Over the next few weeks I’m planning to source all of the other elements that pull this simple look together in time for Spring. Today though, I just want to focus on the jeans themselves. I need to order some too because the ones I have now are starting to feel too skinny. I refuse to pay £200 plus for designer jeans, particularly when styles are in flux, so here are the best from the high street.

Spring / Summer 18 jeans

4 different approaches to Spring / Summer 18 jeans
  1. Authentic straight leg jeans with frayed hem, available in different blues and also black, they nip in at the waist so good for an hourglass.
  2. Raw edge denim jeans with thigh slimming fading at the front so good for pears
  3. Straight slim fit jeans for anyone who prefers an unfrayed hem
  4. Cropped flared jeans – usually best for the short bodied, these are cut slightly longer than the kickflares from the last few seasons so they should be a little more flattering to your hips than they have been in the past

Moving on to online favourites, these have a slight flare at the hem with Vêtements style detail. Bear in mind that as with most of the vintage style stiff denim that is around this season, there is no elasticated give so if you’re between sizes, size up.

Spring / Summer 18 jeans

Cropped flare jeans

And these even have an embroidered ‘love saves the day’ motif running up the leg

Spring / Summer 18 jeans

Love saves the day jeans

If you still prefer to stay on the skinny side, these are a gentle move on. Ignore the reviews and give them a try – remember that they are supposed to be very high waisted and the ankle is meant to be cut a little wider than in previous seasons.

Spring / Summer 18 jeans

Ankle skimmer jeans

Finishing with my current French style crush, I haven’t tried their jeans because I am extremely aware that my body is a long way from the model’s. However I was in a meeting with a very normal bodied lady from a big brand the other day. When I complimented her on her jeans, she told me very quietly that they were from Sézane and that they are the best she has ever worn. She looked fantastic.

Spring / Summer 18 jeans

Frayed hem slim fit jeans

If we can get the jeans right, the rest of the season will follow seamlessly.

A brand clearout not to be missed

And that’s it from me today. I’m only going to distract you with one more thing and that is the Finery clearance. As a small brand, they’re making room for the new season stock that is due to arrive and lots of Midlifechic tried and tested pieces are now very reduced.

Starting with my favourite summer boots, comfortable and easy to walk in, now 50% off.

Elmworth boot

Since I bought this jumpsuit last September, I’ve worn it to all kinds of events as well as at home when friends come round for something to eat. It has that “I’ve made an effort but not gone over the top” vibe – and because the velvet is stretchy, it’s comfortable too. It machine washes with no fuss – you don’t even need to iron it!

Blue velvet jumpsuit

The toning satin shoes are now 50% off too and with this season’s trend for embellishment, they’ll see you all the way through to next Christmas.

Satin and jewel shoes

You’ve seen me wearing this top several times, the only caution is that it isn’t very generous at the bust so if you are well endowed, size up. Also 50% off.

Cobalt lace top

Great shoes for spring, incredibly comfortable with a flattering heel, 50% off.

Ruffle shoes

The only pieces that I wouldn’t recommend are this top (too itchy) and this one (also itchy). This dress is a lovely colour but it slithers open all of the time. There’s lots more to browse through in their clearance, the jewellery is brilliant and really good for adding a little sass to an otherwise conservative outfit. Remember to imagine the clothes on yourself because they will almost certainly look better than they do on the poor sad models! With that I will leave you. Think about jeans, have a great week and I’ll be back on Friday.

Disclosure: Spring / Summer 18 jeans is not a sponsored post

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