If you were to poll women on the item they find most difficult to shop for, I'd hazard a guess and say that jeans are very high on the list (perhaps even only second to swimwear). It is a universal understanding that finding the perfect pair of jeans is akin to finding a needle in a haystack, especially when you take into account the fact that sizes, silhouettes, and trouser lengths tend to vary significantly across different brands.
Standing at the relatively tiny stature of 5'1," shopping for jeans has been a difficult endeavour for as long as I can remember, which is why I was so pleased with my most recent high-street purchase. Nestled in amongst H&M's 306-strong women's denim section, I managed to find a pair of jeans that not only fits me but that also successfully ticks the box of workwear, weekend wear, and beyond.
Ta-Da!
The brand's Vintage Slim High Ankle Jeans are available in seven different washes and come in both petite and regular leg lengths (a huge win for all my fellow tinies out there!). The silhouette features a flattering high-waist style that doesn't dig in or restrict movement and a slim leg through the thigh, which tapers down to a straight-leg cut around the calf and ankle. It might sound obvious due to the name, but these feel like the kind of perfectly cut jeans you'd find amongst the racks at your local vintage store, and I can safely say they're the closest fit I've found to rival my favourite vintage Levi 501s.
The indigo denim wash I purchased is the ideal shade of dark blue that won't look out of place at a fancy restaurant dinner but that is still casual enough to wear while working from home or on a wintry weekend walk. I've barely taken mine off since I purchased them, and I plan to wear the jeans moving forward with everything from ballet flats to heels, sneakers to chunky boots. Keep scrolling to see the five ways I'm styling my H&M Vintage Slim Jeans this winter.
1. The French-Girl Look
Styles Notes: There's just something about putting on ballet flats and a Breton stripe top that always makes me feel like a French girl (even though I am far from being a chic Parisienne). The high waist and straight-leg cut of these jeans also feel very reminiscent of the classic, timeless styles worn by French women, so it's an oui from me on this look.
2. The Borrowed-From-The-Boys Look
Style Notes: My love of button-down shirts and Stan Smith sneakers is well documented on this website, and whether it's for a workday or weekend, I love this relaxed borrowed-from-the-boys outfit. And yes, this shirt was purchased in the men's section, so I do mean that quite literally.
3. The Saturday Night (on the Sofa) Look
Style Note: Saturday nights look a little different these days, but I still love the feeling of putting in some extra effort by dressing up my jeans. I'll add a cute top or blouse and fun accessories for some understated sparkle.
4. The Zoom-Ready WFH Look
Style Notes: While working from home, I attempt to at least keep some semblance of professionalism in my outfits. During winter, I often opt for a chunky knit and pair of earrings if I'm feeling like I need a pick-me-up. Finishing the looks with jeans and slides is the ultimate win, meaning I've successfully managed to stay out of activewear for another day.
5. The Weekend-Walk Look
Style Notes: For a long weekend walk, I am all about practicality. I've lived in these comfy Carvela boots this winter and consider this puffer coat my second most utilised purchase (runner up to the jeans, of course).
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