Karen La Corte

Karen is an etiquette and manners expert certified by the Emily Post Institute in Vermont . She is the incoming board president of the Gilroy Foundation , and supports several community non-profit organizations . Send your questions to : karen @ marxtowing . com

The average price of jeans varies by brand from $ 19.99 to $ 250.00 for a pair and up . I read once where the most expensive pair of blue jeans sold for $ 250,000.00 ! Not exactly in most of our budgets . The symbolism of jeans has changed from hard work to rebellion and wealth to everyday wear . The Gloria Vanderbilt craze of the 1970 ’ s was a revolutionary high-waisted jean that transformed the world of women ’ s fashion . They were the first designer jean .

I don ’ t know about you , but finding the right cut , color , and rise in a jean is not easy for me . Styles change through the years , but the right fit is what really counts . It ’ s all personal preference and how much you are willing to spend . I have to be really motivated when going in that dressing room . At my age , I ’ ve narrowed this daunting task down to a few brands and styles that are my favorites and go-to ’ s .

First , you have to decide if you are short , average or tall . Then you must decide on the color . Dark indigo is the most popular and if you own only one pair of jeans , this is it . These are best for a business casual look in the office . Light blue wash to medium wash is another jean color in varying shades of light blue . This color tends to be more casual and trendier . Black jeans can look great for a nighttime event with boots or a casual shoe . They can even give you a more edgy look with the right shirt and accessories . White jeans are great for spring and summer and can be dressed up or down .

Now you must think of the type or style of jean you want . I am going to list twelve jean styles for women . They are Straight Leg , Slim Fit , Skinny Cut ( cigarette ), Boyfriend Jeans , Loose Fit , Flared Cut , Bootcut , Wide Leg , Distressed , Mom Jeans , Low Rise , and High Rise . Now for the Men . We have Regular Fit Jeans , Slim Fit , Skinny Blue Jeans , Loose Fit , Tapered Fit , Low Rise , Stonewashed , Distressed , Ripped and Repaired , Cuffed , Boot Cut , Stacked Jeans , and Cowboy . Confused ? I bet you are ! Like I said , it all boils down to personal taste , body type and pocketbook . Short of going with you on your next jeans binge shopping spree , I am going to visually give you a couple examples of how you would wear a nice “ dress jean ” yes , “ dress jean ” in the workplace or out to dinner . Casual jeans are just that-casual . And they look it . If you want to impress your boss or new girlfriend , then you need to step up your game .

Tony Tognetti

Here Tony Tognetti has created a smart-casual style with a high-quality blazer by Banana Republic . His dark indigo straight leg jeans by Todd Snyder , pairs perfectly for a more coordinated look . Tony chose a comfortable cotton dress shirt by Trumaker . He accented his business to dinner look with a pair of grey Johnston Murphy loafers . You can find these pieces at Nordstrom . Try T . J . Maxx for you Maxxinistas out there for bargain prices for the same look .

Vanessa La Corte Courneen

Vanessa La Corte Courneen is ready for her new job in her skinny jeans by Mother and her geometric blouse by Zoa New York for detailed interest . The camel three quarter length coat by Ralph Lauren pulls this polished look together . Vanessa accentuated her day to evening look with nude heels and a matching handbag and a gold and pearl necklace with crystal earrings . This same look can be found at the Gilroy Outlets at Ralph Lauren and Ann Taylor and the blouse at T . J . Maxx .

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