How Should Men’s Jeans Fit? The Complete Guide to Sizing Denim

Many guys don’t give much thought to how their pants or any other clothing fits. Chances are, if you’re here reading this guide, you’re not like most guys. Good thing! Because the truth is, the way your jeans fit can make a big difference in how you look and feel. So, how should men’s jeans fit? That’s what we’re here to discuss today.

You’ll learn exactly how to size mens jeans to perfection. We’ll also walk you through the importance of going custom if you truly want to dress to impress. But first and foremost, let’s talk about why learning how men’s jeans should fit is not something you should overlook.

Why Learning How Men’s Jeans Should Fit Is So Important

When you look good, you feel good. This mindset reflects in everything you do. Unfortunately, finding the perfect fitting jeans is easier said than done. It’s overwhelming to know where to begin with so many fresh varieties and brands to pick from. What questions should we ask about how should men’s jeans fit? Here are the reasons your sizing matters more than you think.

Comfort

Comfort is essential when learning how men’s jeans should fit because it allows you to focus on the task at hand: finding the perfect pair of jeans.

There’s nothing worse than being distracted by an uncomfortable waistband or hemline. But, when you’re comfortable, you can try on different styles and sizes with ease and find the perfect pair of jeans in no time.

Appearance

Appearance is related to how men’s jeans should fit because it can help you understand what looks good on your body type.

This is also relevant while searching for more formal dress pants. Appearance is everything; you want to look natural and not like a penguin! Check out our guide on how dress pants should fit.

How Should Men’s Jeans Fit: Factors To Consider

When considering how men’s jeans should fit, there are a few factors to keep in mind:

Your Stature and Body Type

Like most guys, you probably go into a store and pick up a pair of pants off the rack, hold them up to your waist, and hope for the best. But this doesn’t always work.

Your height can be a significant factor in whether the jeans you wear fit like a glove or make you look washed out.

Also, the build of your body can influence the fit of the jeans too. It’s crucial, therefore, to consider your stature and body type before purchasing. Here are the most common body types.

Tall and Slender

If you’re tall and slender, you’ll want to look for slim-fitting jeans, but not ones that are too tight. A straight leg or slightly tapered leg will look best on you. Avoid baggy or wide-leg jeans, which will make you look even taller and thinner.

Want a great look for someone who is tall and slender? Read our guide on how chinos should fit.

Short and Stout

If you’re short and stout, you’ll want to find jeans that are a bit roomier in the seat and thigh area. A straight leg or slightly flared leg will balance out your proportions. And don’t be afraid to go a little longer in the inseam — it will help elongate your legs.

Average Build

If you have an average build, you’re in luck — most styles of jeans will look good on you. Just remember to try them on before you buy them to make sure they fit well in the waist, hips, and thighs.

Factor In Your Age

Certain styles of jeans don’t work for all ages. And if you’re going for a more timeless look, there are some style choices you should avoid altogether. Here’s a general breakdown of what works at each stage of life:

In Your 20s

You can pretty much pull off any style of jeans, from ripped and distressed to skinny and fitted. Just make sure they’re well-made and fit well. Young successful men have the dilemma of jeans vs chinos. Which ones should you choose?

In Your 30s

Stick to classics like straight-leg or relaxed-fit jeans in dark washes. Save the ripped and distressed styles for weekends or nights out.

In Your 40s

Again, stick to classics like straight-leg or relaxed-fit jeans in dark washes. And make sure they fit well—no saggy behinds or baggy knees, remember to ask yourself how tight should men’s jeans fit also.

50+

At this stage in life, it’s all about comfort and fit. So stick to straight-leg or relaxed-fit jeans in dark washes.

The Style You Are Going For

Now that you know how age factors into the equation, let’s talk about the different types of jeans styles. How should men’s jeans fit according to different styles?

Skinny Jeans

These are tight-fitting jeans that hug your legs from top to bottom. They can be stretchy material for a more comfortable fit or non-stretch denim for a more structured look.

Skinny jeans should fit snugly around your legs without being too tight. They should also be the right length — not so long that they bunch up at the bottom and not so short that they show your ankles.

Roll the hem of your jeans up a couple of times if you’re trying for a more casual look. This will make them feel more relaxed.

Bootcut Jeans

These are jeans that are slightly flared at the bottom to accommodate boots. They usually have more room in the seat and thigh area than skinny jeans.

Bootcut jeans should fit snugly around your waist and hips, with enough room to move comfortably. The flare at the bottom should start at the widest part of your calf.

Flared Jeans

These are jeans that have a wide flare at the bottom. Flared jeans should fit snugly around your waist and hips, with enough room to move comfortably.

The flare at the bottom should start at the widest part of your calf.

Straight-Leg Jeans

These jeans have a straight leg from top to bottom with no tapering or flares.

Straight-leg jeans should fit snugly around your waist and hips, with enough room to move comfortably.

Relaxed-Fit Jeans

These jeans have a bit more room in the seat and thigh area than straight-leg jeans.

Relaxed-fit jeans should fit snugly around your waist and hips, with enough room to move comfortably.

Loose-Fit Jeans

These are the most relaxed style of jeans, with plenty of room in the seat and thigh area.

Loose-fit jeans should fit snugly around your waist and hips, with enough room to move comfortably.

How Men’s Jeans Should Fit: Step By Step Guide To Perfect Sizing

You have considered the main factors when deciding on the right type of jeans for you. So what are the basics of how should men’s jeans fit? Here’s a quick rundown:

Step 1) Choose Your Leg Shape

The legs of your jeans should fit snugly from the thigh to the ankle. Ask yourself how tight should men’s jeans fit? If they’re too loose, they’ll bunch up at the knee; if they’re too tight, they’ll feel constricting and may cause you to walk funny.

The three most common leg shapes are:

Tapered

Tapered jeans have a tighter fit at the ankle and a looser fit as they progress up the leg. This is the most popular leg shape for men’s jeans, as it looks good on most body types and is flattering to the male physique.

Straight

Straight-leg jeans are the same width from the thigh to the ankle. They have a timeless appearance, but they’re not as flattering as tapered or bootcut jeans.

Bootcut

Bootcut jeans are slightly flared at the ankle, making them ideal for guys with larger thighs or calves. However, they can make a smaller frame look even smaller, so caution when choosing this leg shape.

Step 2) The Rise

Jeans are typically available in two different rise options: low-rise and regular-rise. Low-rise jeans sit below the waist, while regular-rise jeans sit at the natural waistline.

These low-rise jeans can be more flattering for guys with slimmer builds, while regular-rise jeans may be better for guys with larger figures.

Step 3) Figure Out the Right Length

There are three main jean lengths: short, regular, and long.

Short jeans are typically about an inch or two above the ankle, while regular jeans hit at or just below the ankle. Long jeans come down to the top of the foot or even slightly longer.

The key is to find a pair that hits the right spot on your leg. If they’re too short, they’ll look awkward and unfinished. On the other hand, jeans that are too long will bunch up at the bottom and be uncomfortable.

To figure out the right length, start by putting on a pair of shoes that you’ll be wearing with the jeans. Then, stand in front of a mirror and hold the jeans’ hem so they graze the top of your shoe. That’s the correct length for you.

You can also check the inseam. The inseam is the distance from the crotch of your jeans to the bottom of the leg. It’s important to get this measurement right because if the inseam is too long, your jeans will drag on the ground; if it’s too short, they’ll be uncomfortable and cause you to trip.

Step 4) Get the Proper Width

The next thing to consider is your waist size.

Your jeans should sit at your natural waistline, usually around the belly button. They’ll sag if they’re too low; if they’re too high, they’ll cut into your waist and be uncomfortable. Men’s jeans should sit nicely, you don’t want people questioning how tight should men’s jeans fit, do you?

Additional Tips To Help You Get The Perfect Fitting Men’s Jeans

Armed with the information above, you’re well on your way to unlocking the perfect fit in your jeans. But, here are a few more tips to consider once you have worked out your sizing. 

Sitting Down

No matter how you wear your jeans, you’re going to be sitting down at some point. So whether you’re at a desk all day or just relaxing on the couch, you want your jeans to look and feel good when you’re seated. That means choosing a pair that fits nicely around the seat and thighs.

If your jeans are too tight, they’ll feel uncomfortable when you sit down. And if they’re too loose, they’ll bunch up and look sloppy. The best-fitting jeans will hug your body without being skin-tight – even while you’re seated.

Fabric Type

When it comes to choosing the right pair of men’s jeans, the fabric is just as important as the fit. Comfort, durability, and style can all be improved with different materials. Here are some of the most popular fabric options for men’s jeans:

• Cotton: Cotton is a soft, natural fabric that is comfortable to wear. It’s also quite breathable, making it ideal for hot weather. On the other hand, cotton jeans may not be as long-lasting as other selections.
• Denim: Denim is a sturdy fabric often used for work pants and other durable clothing items. Denim jeans are usually incredibly comfy, but they’re not always as breathable as other options.
• Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fabric often used in sportswear. Polyester jeans are usually very affordable, but they may not be as comfortable.
• Spandex: Spandex is a synthetic fabric often used in stretchy clothing items like leggings. Spandex jeans are usually very comfortable and offer a good amount of mobility. However, they may not be as durable as other options.

Get Custom Fit Men’s Jeans To Look & Feel Your Best

When it comes to finding the perfect-fitting jeans, the options are endless. But picking a pair off the rack at a traditional store can lead to problems.

The answer is simple: get a custom fit. There are a few reasons why custom-fit jeans are superior to off-the-rack options:

Better Fit

The most significant advantage of custom-fit jeans is that they fit better. They’re made to your specific measurements, so you don’t have to worry about whether they’ll be too tight or too loose in certain areas.

More Options

With custom-fit jeans, you’re not limited to whatever styles happen to be in stock at the store. Instead, you can choose from various cuts, colors, and washes to find the perfect pair of jeans for your taste.

Better Quality

Custom-fit jeans are also usually made with higher-quality materials than off-the-rack options. As a result, they’ll endure longer and look better in the long run.

Get custom jeans for men at Black Lapel, and you’ll never have to play the guessing game again – both in terms of styling your pants and getting the right fit.

Our menswear specialists are here to help you style your look no matter where you’re headed – to the office, brunch, or the bar – you name it. There is no better way to get jeans crafted just for you. 

Final Thoughts On How Men’s Jeans Should Fit

Remember, when it comes to finding the perfect pair of men’s jeans and asking how should men’s jeans fit and how tight should men’s jeans fit, there are a few things you need to consider.

First, think about your body type and choose a pair that fits nicely around your waist and thighs. Second, consider the fabric type and choose a pair made with comfortable and durable material. Finally, it’s best to get a custom fit to ensure your jeans look and feel great. And if you want to learn more, check out our article on how to style men’s jeans.

At Black Lapel, we don’t just have custom-fitted jeans for men – we’ve got all types of custom pants for men, from custom-tailored slacks to custom chinos and beyond.

You’ll also find custom suits for those formal occasions and custom casual shirts and shorts for those weekend outings. Let Black Lapel help you unlock effortless style for any setting. Head over to our site to see all that we have to offer!

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