can anyone find me the perfect pair of jeans - please?

[mimsum]

I desperately need some new jeans but can't find a pair which either fit or flatter

I used to go for Gap long and lean but they've changed the cut and it doesn't work on me anymore

I'm 45, 5'7, size 12 with "sturdy" thighs, slim(ish) waist and more-marshmallow-than-I-would-like stomach after 3 kids ...

I don't want skinny jeans (I wore drainpipes as a teenager so they fail my "not if I wore it the first time" rule), I don't want low-rise as it doesn't do anything for my tummy and a lot of cuts which fit my legs are way too big round the hips/waist

So far I've tried Gap, M&S, White Stuff and even Boden without success - I don't like or have much time for shopping so would love any suggestions please?

I really like French connection jeans, and I am similar in shape/size/squishyness to you.

I have just bought a pair of their bootcut which look nice.

I did see some in Oasis yesterday which looked ok, but haven't tried them on.

Like you Gap, white stuff and boden all look bad on me. I also tried Levis which didn't look anything special.

I have also got some jeans from Aubin & Wills which are surprisingly flattering. Other people say that Topshop jeans are nice too.

Great Plains. Just bought 2 pairs of their J4009 vintage style which are £45 but I got them at TK MAXX for £16.99. Mid rise, slight just right bootcut.

They are almost as flattering on the tum and thigh as my Paige Premium Denim Hollywood hills which cost megabucks. Seriously reccommend.

Very nice darkish plain denim no distressed patches or bleached bits. Flower stitching on back pockets not exactly cutting edge but neither am I these days!

Uniqlo denim is lovely but I've got a pair of the straight skinnies and I'm forever hoiking them up. Not sure what a different cut would be like, worth a try. Very long on me though

Have you tried Long Tall Sally? Depends on your leg length mind - they do 34" and 36" inside leg. I am 6' and find the are a good length on me. Lots of styles from "ordinary" bootleg (called Seine) to trendy drainpipe etc (although agree with you been there done that got cystitis)