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Skinny jeans vs slim fit jeans. This dilemma struck me when I was shopping for my daily-wear denim pants. When I tried skinny jeans, they were more form-fitting and hugged my curves in a way that I found flattering.
However, they were a bit uncomfortable and restrictive. Slim-fit jeans felt more comfortable, although not as flattering. Facing the same dilemma? Here are my findings on which style suits which situation.
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Skinny Jeans vs Slim Fit General Overview
Over the decades, jeans have undergone various trends in terms of fit, ranging from baggy to super skinny. Both skinny jeans and slim-fit jeans are styles that fit closer to the body compared to relaxed-fit jeans.
Regardless of the constant fashion evolution, these two styles have remained staples in many wardrobes. If you are wondering which style you should go for depending on the occasion and level of activity, the following guide will help you choose the most appropriate style.
Skinny Jeans Overview
Skinny jeans are a type of denim pants that provide a snug fit through the thighs, knees, calves, and ankles. As the name suggests, they are meant to contour closely to the shape of the legs. If you are a parent, read dad jeans and mom jeans.
The opening at the ankle is narrow, ensuring they maintain their tight appearance from top to bottom. These jeans saw a surge in popularity during the late 2000s and throughout the 2010s, initially more popular among younger demographics. Compare the original hem vs regular hem jeans see which is better.
Slim Fit Overview
These jeans are characterized by a tailored fit that is not too tight, yet not too loose. They are designed to sit just right, giving a streamlined look without hugging the legs tightly. For loose or tight style, check jeans and sweatpants.
Generally, they strike a balance between the ultra-fitted look of skinny jeans and the relaxed silhouette of straight-leg jeans. Like the skinny style, this style began to gain traction in the mainstream fashion world in the early 2000s. Low rise or high rise jeans can give you an idea of what you need.
Comparing Skinny Jeans and Slim Fit
Whether you want flattering denim pants that you can wear when going for outings or a versatile modern style you can wear in both casual and semi-formal settings, the following similarities and differences between the two styles will help you make the right choice.
Similarities
Even if these two styles differ in how they emphasize the footwear and the contours of the legs, they have the following similarities.
- Both styles offer a more tailored and fitted look compared to traditional straight-leg jeans.
- The two styles incorporate stretchy materials like spandex in their fabric blend.
- Both are available in low-rise, mid-rise, or high-rise styles to suit different body types.
- The two styles are modern and trendy, especially when compared to other classic denim fits.
Differences
Although both jeans are primarily made of denim, they aim at accentuating the body differently, making them have the following material and comfort differences.
Material
Denim, the primary fabric used to make jeans, is a sturdy cotton fabric made using a twill weave, which has limited stretch. Since the skinny versions are meant to contour closely to the shape of the legs, they often incorporate a higher percentage of stretchy materials such as spandex.
This ensures that the jeans can hug the body while still allowing you to move with minimal restriction. The higher spandex content also results in a more softer feel compared to the traditional denim feel. This is also the best jeans that lifts your butt.
On the other hand, the slim versions being looser than their skinny counterparts, require less stretch when wearing and walking. As a result, their material has minimal stretchability requirements and is usually composed of less spandex percentage. If you need a different style yet a loose one, try cargo pants or jeans.
Outfit Versatility
Since skinny styles taper down and fit snugly at the ankle, they pair well with boots such as ankle, calf, and knee-high, as well as heels, flats, and sneakers. You can choose to tuck them into the boots or wear them with strappy heels for a sleek look. You might want to look at jeans or khakis to match the footwear.
You can pair the high-rise skinny variants with cropped tops, tunics, or longer, flowy shirts so the tight fit at the bottom balances out the volume on top. On the contrary, the slim versions offer a middle ground between the taper of skinny versions and the straight cut of classic jeans.
As a result, you can wear them with almost any footwear, from formal shoes to casual sneakers, without the extremity of the taper influencing the overall look as much. In the same way, their moderate fit pairs well with a wider variety of tops compared to the skinny versions.
Comfort
The closer fit of the skinny style tends to limit the range of motion, especially in the knee and calf areas. This can be more noticeable when squatting and bending, especially if the fabric has a smaller percentage of elastane.
On the other hand, the slim versions don’t adhere as closely to the body, particularly from the knees down. The additional room in areas like the thighs, knees, and calves facilitates a broader range of motion, so the comfort.
Major Distinguishing Factor
The major distinguishing factor between slim-fit and skinny jeans is their visual impact. The snug fit of the skinny style accentuates the shape and curves of the legs, making you flatter. The tight fit also gives you a more feminine appearance.
On the contrary, the slim version offers a more neutral fit that sits between the classic jeans associated with traditional men’s fashion and the skinny style associated with ladies’ fashion. As a result, these jeans are versatile across gender lines.
When to Wear Skinny Jeans
Considering that these jeans offer a tight fit, they might be the best pants to wear in the following situations.
- When you want to flatter by emphasizing your curves
- If you are wearing boots and you want denim pants you can tuck easily
- When you want to showcase the footwear, and you want denim pants that will make the shoes prominent
- If you’re wearing a flowy top, cardigan, or jacket, you can wear these jeans to balance out the volume and create a complementary silhouette.
When to Wear Slim Fit Jeans
Keeping in mind that these jeans give you a modern, tailored look without being restrictive, they might be the best pants to wear in the following situations.
- When you want versatile denim pants you can wear for various occasions, ranging from casual outings to semi-formal settings
- If you’re a man seeking a modern, tailored look
- If you are engaging in activities that require dynamic movements, and you find the skinny style to be too restrictive
Which Jeans Are Better?
Overall, slim-fit jeans are better as they are more versatile, and you can wear them for both casual and semi-formal settings depending on the overall outfit. They also give you a sleek look, without drawing excessive attention to your body curves.
Related Questions
Which Style Is Best for My Pear Shape?
Generally, the slim style is best for a pear shape as it doesn’t accentuate the curves of the hips and thighs like the skinny style. This prevents you from drawing attention to the bottom areas that you might be self-conscious about.
Is Slim Fit the Same as Modern Fit?
Modern fit is generally more relaxed compared to the slim version, yet more tight than the baggy versions. As a result, modern fit follows the body in a straight line visually rather than conforming.
Which Style Can Make My Stomach Look Flat?
Both styles can make your stomach appear flat as long as you go for the high-waisted designs. Typically, the high waist helps to highlight the waist curves while concealing your tummy.
Final Verdict
If you find yourself torn between skinny jeans vs slim fit, ask yourself: Where are you going? Generally, skinny styles are more flattering and great for outings. Slim-fit styles are more comfortable and versatile, making them great for everyday wear.
