Share This Article
I’ve always admired the look of high-waisted jeans but wasn’t quite sure how to style them. They have a retro vibe and tend to highlight small waists and curvy hips. As someone who’s hesitant to step outside my fashion comfort zone, I found some helpful advice from “Jean Queen” Donna Ida Thornton. She offered tips on styling her Ivy skinny high-waist jeans to perfection.
According to Donna, anyone can pull off a high-waist, as long as they consider the leg shape and fabric. If you have a boyish figure, opt for thicker, traditional denim. For curvier figures, stretchy fabrics work best to enhance your curves. Skinny jeans are still a popular choice because they’re both versatile and durable. And if skinny jeans aren’t your style, don’t worry—there are plenty of other options out there, including flared high-waists, relaxed leg jeans, or a high-waist with a cigarette leg.
Once you’ve found the right jeans, it’s time to think about footwear. High heels are a must for high-waisted jeans, and Donna agrees. She suggests choosing a pair of comfy heels if you’re always on the move. I tried pairing my high-waisted jeans with ballet pumps, and though it’s not the easiest look to pull off unless you have supermodel legs, it’s quite charming!
The best thing about high-waisted jeans is that they pair perfectly with sweaters and tops that might be too short for regular-rise jeans. These jeans accentuate the waist at its narrowest point, creating a flattering, feminine silhouette without causing the dreaded muffin top.
So, what tops should you pair with high-waisted jeans? Donna recommends tucking in blouses and fine cashmere sweaters to achieve a cinched-in hourglass figure. Curvy girls might try printed silk tops inspired by Marilyn Monroe. For those with a more boyish frame, an androgynous two-pocket shirt, like the ones from Equipment, offers a stylish look.
Would you consider wearing high-waisted jeans? They offer the advantage of creating a beautifully curvy silhouette, although getting used to the new proportions can take some time. It’s a quick way to update your look and is especially appealing for fans of vintage and retro styles. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
I’m wearing IDA Ivy jeans in Deep Sea, paired with a grey cashmere sweater from IDA and a printed Joie blouse. The white shoes are from Topshop, and the ballet pumps are from Office. Feel free to reach out to Donna Ida for any denim advice; she’s always been a great help to me!