The Keys To Summer Jeans

June 15, 2016

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By Brian Maynor

 

We all love jeans, but during the summer it seems almost impossible to wear them without the fear of sweating to death.

While it you do have to change a few things about the jeans you choose, it is possible to keep the wardrobe staple a daily option, even in the triple digit temperatures. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind:

1.    Lighter Weight. Jeans are actually weighed in ounces, and while you may not know the actual weight, you can often tell the difference as soon as you pick them up. Most jeans come in around 15oz., which is fine for cooler weather, but not plausible in the 90s. Instead look for jeans that are around the 12oz. mark. It’s only a few ounces different, but the way the feel is worlds apart.

Lighter denim should feel more like linen and can be found in all shades of blue, grey and even colors.

2.    Distressed Ventilation. It’s impossible to ignore the fact that distressed jeans are incredibly popular this season, which is actually a good thing. While they are definitely not the most polished accent, they do serve a very practical purpose, which is letting air circulate around your legs.

While distressed jeans look great with basic t-shirts, don’t be surprised to see them paired with formal shirts, ties and blazers.

3.    Looser Legs. If distressing isn’t your cup of tea, another way to get air moving in your jeans is to opt for a wider leg. Not only were they seen on every spring/summer runway, skinny jeans trap heat and sweat.

Wider legs are not the same as flared or boot-cut. When you hold them up, look for a straight line all the way from hip to ankle, not a tight thigh, tapering at the knee and then flowing out.

4.    Pre-washed over Selvedge. Raw denim has its appeal, with a uniform dark wash and stiff, crisp appearance, but during the hotter months that will only work against you. To beat the heat you want to look for pre-washed jeans. They are not only softer and lighter, both physically and in color, they are more forgiving to wear because they tend to have stretch.

The one drawback, like with distressed jeans, is that they are not as formal so you will be more limited on where you can wear them.

We shouldn’t have to shelve our jeans just because it’s summer, but we do have to change the type of jeans we wear and how we wear them. Summer denim is a lot more casual than winter denim, which means they might not be as universal, unless you want to embrace your inner Kayne. After all he wore a pair to the Met Gala that had more holes than fabric.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

Female.Summer.Jeans

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

Male.Summer.Jeans

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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