Things You'll Need:
- A willingness (and a way) to physically go to different stores
- An idea of your personal style
- Money
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Step 1
Know your measurements - Knowing your waist and inseam sizes will help expedite your shopping. In the United States, men's pants show the waist first, then the inseam, both in inches. For example: "36 x 33" means 36 inches around, and 33 inches long. Waist: Wrap a tape measure around ONLY your waist, making sure it is snug, but not tight. Inseam: Place old jeans on a flat surface and measure the inseam (from crotch to leg bottom). Round any fractions up to the next inch.
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Step 2
Try them on in person - Go to a real store to erase any uncertainty about size or comfort. Stand, sit, stretch, squat, and walk around when trying on new jeans, just to make sure they remain comfortable. Also, be aware that differences in manufacturing produce slightly different sizes. For instance, a Levis 36 might feel looser than a Wrangler 36. Also, if you usually wear shirts tucked in, consider jeans with a slightly roomier waist. Not only should your waist be comfortable, but gauge how much room you want around your seat, thigh, and lower leg as well.
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Step 3
Know your style and color options - Denim has traditionally provided a rugged, laid-back look. Styles and colors include stone washed, faded, black, khaki, white, and don't forget flannel- or fleece-lined jeans for the winter. Almost any shirts, tees, and blazers will go well with jeans. To give your look even more variation, try different footwear like canvas shoes, dress shoes, boat shoes, mocs, or work boots.
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Step 4
Figure out your price limit - If you're looking for something simple, expect to pay anywhere from $20 to about $60. If you want to make an impression, the sky's the limit. Some of the more expensive jeans sell for hundreds per pair, so try not to blow out your clothing budget.
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Step 5
Find a brand you trust - Jeans are not just for cowboys or construction workers, and there are hundreds of different brands. You can't go wrong with older brands like Levis, Wrangler, and Lee. Other quality brands are American Eagle, Calvin Klein, Guess, and Haggar. Also, most brands offer elastic waist jeans.
