I Never Thought I'd Despise a Jean as Much as This One

"Despise" is an awfully strong word. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines it as looking down on something with contempt or aversion, and to regard as negligible, worthless, or distasteful. Dramatic, yes, but it's precisely how I feel about skinny jeans—the fashion world's beloved skinnies I hereby despise. I've been wearing skinny jeans since high school, which is reaching almost 20 years ago at this point, and though my proclivity toward wearing them has ebbed and flowed throughout that time, I can confidently say that over the last five years my sentiments toward skinnies have remained decidedly as such: not a fan.

Why? A few reasons that are solely based on personal preference and opinion (in other words, I unquestionably encourage wearing whatever makes you feel your most confident and reserve zero judgment for the jean style of your choosing).

First, I feel as though skinny jeans, no matter one's body shape, are not the most flattering option. Sure, a slim leg is apt at showing off the bum and legs, but the ultra-tightness factor (particularly around the calf and ankle) can make my stems look like two sausages. Second, for whatever reason unbeknownst to me, whenever I slip into my skinny jeans I instantly look younger. And though looking more youthful is a positive attribute, I simply find it challenging to look like a 30s-something working adult when I'm wearing them. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, they're frankly not as comfortable as other jeans that have more give. I like to eat a meal and not be in pain afterward, thank you very much!

All that griping aside, in the effort of finding a solution I rounded up four alternate denim styles that—if you feel similarly about skinnies—are cute and stylish and great for wearing all season and 2019 long.

Try Instead: Crop Flares

The slim legs plus crop hemline plus kick flares all equate to a super-versatile, super-flattering pair of jeans you'll wear endlessly.

Try Instead: Straight-Leg

Consider these the trousers of the denim world. They go with everything and add polish to anything. Wear yours this winter with a Fair Isle sweater and ankle boots.

Try Instead: Bootcut

Personally speaking, my bum looks the best when I'm wearing a pair of bootcut jeans. They're pleasantly elongating and feel slightly more dressy. 

Try Instead: Ankle Crop

I know what you're thinking, these are 100% skinny jeans. And sure, they definitely have attributes of skinnies, but the shorter hemline makes the super-slim leg feel freer, less stuffed. I'm on board!

Up Next: 10 holiday party outfits you can wear with jeans.