Skinny/straight jeans make me look weird, are bootcut the only freaking option?!?!

[HowYaLikeThemApples]

Just that really, I'm sort of hourglass, size 10 and short, 5ft 3 (which I think is maybe the problem) so skinnies in particular make me feel like an inverted triangle, but I'm starting to feel old in boot cut jeans. Anyone else feel like this? Any advice on how to balance it out

[Koothrapanties]

Watching with interest. I'm top heavy and skinnies just make it worse. I need to balance it out so wear bootcut or wider trousers. I look best in linen style trousers as it makes me look more in proportion.

I was rather disheartened when the thread about mumsyness said that bootcut jeans are a no no because I look so silly in skinnies.

[HowYaLikeThemApples]

That thread made me feel a bit weird too. I'm not a major fashion follower but just don't want to wear bootcuts if they're turning me into older version of what I could be if I could just nail the skinny or straight look. I'm also the owner of broad shoulders and that certainly doesn't help!

[LakeFlyPie]

I'm a very wide hipped / broad shouldered pear and try skinnies / straight legged jeans at regular intervals and they always look horrendous, have tried chunky boots, long tops etc but doesn't balance effectively on me. Might do when I manage to lose the 1+ stone I need to but not ATM.
Dark bootlegs are definitely the most flattering option for me. I don't care much for fashion and think if you find the style that suits you and wear it with confidence that will achieve the best look.

[Walnut8]

If you are used to the shape that bootleg jeans give you then skinny jeans will look odd at first - they change your "proportions" or silhouette completely. Start with straight leg styles and try lots on, you are bound to find a pair that looks good (tbh some "straight leg" jeans are not far off bootcut either).

[Walnut8]

(And sorry but bootlegs really DO date you...)

[dexter73]

Bootcuts don't date you but the type of bootcut you wear can. A well fitting, long enough pair of bootcuts will look good on you. Baggy or too tight ankle swingers will look like a disaster.

[whereisshe]

Skinny jeans don't suit everyone (I see evidence of this regularly walking around!)...

I agree with walnut about trying lots on and going for slim/straight leg instead of bootcut.

But actually the leg shape is less important than the top - it should be cut to suit your figure including pocket placement etc.

this is largely trial and error - try lots on and see if the silhouette makes you look taller and thinner. Variables include the rise (best on most people is lower at the front than at the back, but not too high as that makes bum look big), how the side seaming is done (slight curve better than dead straight in most women), height of the back pocket (lower is better), size/shape of the back triangle bit (more triangle is better for bigger bums). A specialist denim shop can help you sort through this minefield even if you have no intention of ever spending that amount on jeans.

[Cocolepew]

In my work a lot of the younger ones wear skinnys, because they are trendy atm. But even some of them look ridiculous. I think you always look better if you dress for your shape, no matter what age you are.

[dexter73]

I think you always look better if you dress for your shape, no matter what age you are.

I totally agree.

[HaveYouTriedARewardChart]

Me too. Keep trying them, they just don't work. I'm 5'1", slim hips but chunky legs.

Proper bootcut I find very dating, but by that I mean tight through the thigh.

Try boyfriend? I particularly love miss sixty perkins. Low and fitted on hips, loose but not too loose on thighs
Feels much more current than bootcut.

Also look at tapered boyfriend jeans, ankle length maybe gathered at the ankle? Not found the right pair yet but I love the look!