If you were to poll women on the item they find most difficult to shop for, I'd hazard a guess and say that jeans are very high on the list (perhaps even only second to swimwear). It is a universal understanding that finding the perfect pair of jeans is akin to finding a needle in a haystack, especially when you take into account the fact that sizes, silhouettes, and trouser lengths tend to vary significantly across different brands.
Standing at the relatively tiny stature of 5'1," shopping for jeans has been a difficult endeavour for as long as I can remember, which is why I was so pleased with my most recent high-street purchase. Nestled in amongst H&M's 306-strong women's denim section, I managed to find a pair of jeans that not only fits me but that also successfully ticks the box of workwear, weekend wear, and beyond.
Ta-Da!
The brand's Vintage Slim High Ankle Jeans are available in seven different washes and come in both petite and regular leg lengths (a huge win for all my fellow tinies out there!). The silhouette features a flattering high-waist style that doesn't dig in or restrict movement and a slim leg through the thigh, which tapers down to a straight-leg cut around the calf and ankle. It might sound obvious due to the name, but these feel like the kind of perfectly cut jeans you'd find amongst the racks at your local vintage store, and I can safely say they're the closest fit I've found to rival my favourite vintage Levi 501s.
The indigo denim wash I purchased is the ideal shade of dark blue that won't look out of place at a fancy restaurant dinner but that is still casual enough to wear while working from home or on a wintry weekend walk. I've barely taken mine off since I purchased them, and I plan to wear the jeans moving forward with everything from ballet flats to heels, sneakers to chunky boots. Keep scrolling to see the five ways I'm styling my H&M Vintage Slim Jeans this winter.
1. The French-Girl Look
Styles Notes: There's just something about putting on ballet flats and a Breton stripe top that always makes me feel like a French girl (even though I am far from being a chic Parisienne). The high waist and straight-leg cut of these jeans also feel very reminiscent of the classic, timeless styles worn by French women, so it's an oui from me on this look.
2. The Borrowed-From-The-Boys Look
Style Notes: My love of button-down shirts and Stan Smith sneakers is well documented on this website, and whether it's for a workday or weekend, I love this relaxed borrowed-from-the-boys outfit. And yes, this shirt was purchased in the men's section, so I do mean that quite literally.
3. The Saturday Night (on the Sofa) Look
Style Note: Saturday nights look a little different these days, but I still love the feeling of putting in some extra effort by dressing up my jeans. I'll add a cute top or blouse and fun accessories for some understated sparkle.
4. The Zoom-Ready WFH Look
Style Notes: While working from home, I attempt to at least keep some semblance of professionalism in my outfits. During winter, I often opt for a chunky knit and pair of earrings if I'm feeling like I need a pick-me-up. Finishing the looks with jeans and slides is the ultimate win, meaning I've successfully managed to stay out of activewear for another day.
5. The Weekend-Walk Look
Style Notes: For a long weekend walk, I am all about practicality. I've lived in these comfy Carvela boots this winter and consider this puffer coat my second most utilised purchase (runner up to the jeans, of course).
Next up, The Biggest Spring/Summer 2021 Trends You Need to Know
-
From Pilates in L.A. to Meetings in Paris, Kendall Jenner Can't Stop Wearing These Classic Designer FlatsI don't blame her—they look sleek and so comfortable.
-
Dancer Isabella Boylston on Fighting Ballet Stereotypes, Content Creation, and Listening to Her AnklesShe's changing minds one performance and social media post at a time.
-
Want to Wear Dark-Wash Jeans the 2025 Way? Style Them Exclusively With This Rich Color TrendThe chicest shade pairing for fall.
-
H&M's Highly Anticipated Glenn Martens Collaboration Is Finally Here—Shop Before It Sells OutInspired by Y/Project.
-
If You Have Good Taste, These 8 Chic Editor-Approved Fall Trends Will Be No SurpriseSee what made the list.
-
If You're as Against Wearing Sneakers With Jeans as I Am, Trust Me—This Outfit Will Change Your MindSpotted on Jennifer Lawrence in NYC.
-
Chicer Than Jeans and a T-Shirt—Everyone With Rich Taste Will Wear These Denim Outfits This FallYour new uniform to elevate your style.
-
Not Slippers, Not Boots—These New Uggs Are Already Replacing Every L.A. It Girl's Favorite SneakersThey're $150 and they're yours.
-
Here Are the Sweaters You Should Be Shopping at Zara, H&M, and COSThe only sweater guide you need this season.
-
Here It Is: The New It-Girl Way to Wear Jeans and a Pair of HeelsSofia Richie gets it.
