Denim is probably the most popular and versatile fashion statement that you can make. In fact every single man in Canada owns at least one pair of jeans, and 1 in 3 say it’s the most important item in their wardrobe. Why? Glen Baxter, Canadian fashion expert and former host of CTV’s In Fashion, says, “We grew up wearing denim. When I was a kid I had a pair of Levi’s and Wranglers. I wore them out. And guys just get it, you can do so much in denim.”
And denim can do so much for you so long as you remember the golden rule: Fit is everything.
If your closet has been neglected for awhile, fall is a perfect time to start sorting through it so you can give your wardrobe a much-needed update. Plus, according to a recent consumer survey conducted on behalf of Mark’s in support of their national #EverythingInJeans campaign, Canadian men are turning away from traditional suits and everyday dress pants, opting to work jeans into their daily work attire.
Edit, edit, edit
Since guys basically live in jeans, they can become very attached to them. They’re like an old friend who has seen you through the good and the bad. That’s why a lot of guys are blind to just how unflattering that old pair of jeans has become. And 30% of men agree with Baxter’s statement: “I have a pair of jeans that my wife or girlfriend think I should only wear at home because they’re too embarrassed to be seen with me when I’m wearing them outside.”
Forget your partner; you owe it to yourself to get rid of those old jeans. It’s time to edit and update. If you’re not sure how, Baxter’s got you covered with a few tips.
The two pairs of jeans you need to own
“Get a nice pair of straight jeans with a light wash that you can wear when you’re running errands, when you’re doing house chores. You know, just an all-purpose jean,” Baxter says, “And then get a nice pair of clean dressy jeans that you only maybe wear on occasion. You want to keep them fresh.”
Baxter makes it sound easy enough. Plus, he’s quick to point out that places like Mark’s now carry over 100 different styles and premium brands including: Levi’s, Buffalo, Wrangler and Silver Jeans for anywhere between $50—$110.
A note on care
After you’ve done your fall update, you want to make sure your brand new pair doesn’t become that ratty old pair in the next six months. You need to take care of your jeans. To buy for a perfect fit and make sure you keep them that way, Baxter says, “I think for your readers the best way to take care of jeans that you like is to put them in the washer, cold water, no detergent. Wash them as little as possible because you don’t want to lose the integrity of the colour.”
With that care regiment, you’ll have to make sure you don’t get huge stains on your jeans and you’ll be good to go.
Happy updating.