After years of skinnies, new jean silhouettes are trending and some old ones are making a come back. As always, some of these denim trends are more flattering than others though, especially when it comes to plus size apple shapes.
First up, legs are getting wider. Bootcut, straight, and flares are all back in stores. These fits are all flattering for apple shapes because the volume in the leg balances out weight in the torso. Wide leg pants can be hit or miss and may not be the best choice for apple shapes because they cover up one of your best features. In contrast to skinny jeans, opt for shorter and slimmer fit tops with flared jeans.
Waistlines are moving up and high waisted jeans are back. We know mom jeans aren’t flattering and this also isn’t the best option for people who carry weight around the middle. Instead, look for mid-rise pants that land just below the belly button and add some structure without digging in.
All of these jeans are available in more colors and styles than ever before. Colored denim is getting bolder brighter. Distressed looks add texture and if you like, holes. There are crops, raw hems and even overalls.
Check out the hottest denim trends for 2018 plus the best jeans for plus apple shapes. Mix and match trends for the best fit and freshest looks.
1. Medium Rise Waist
Not too high, not too low, mid-rise waistlines are just right for apple shapes who benefit from some support without digging into the belly.
AYR Onelove – These are not cheap jeans. However, in my experience, the price per wear of more expensive jeans can be lower than cheaper options. Available in sizes 14-22, this mid-rise skinny in a dark wash is made of dense, sturdy denim with flattering stretch and amazing recovery.
2. Flare Jeans
Flared hems are bringing back bell bottom and bootcut styles. The key to wearing flare jeans is length. Wear flares with either heels or flats. Wearing too long pants with flats will leave them dragging on the ground while flares that land at the heel will be flood pants with higher shoes. Or just get crops!
Lane Bryant Essential Stretch Kick Boot Jean – These cute and flattering ankle length bootcuts have a slight flare from the knee to the ankle. The shape updates the popular Essential Strethc denim line by Lane Bryant. If you love the fit, check out the two-tone, washed gray, or deconstructed styles.
3. Bootcut
If it’s good enough for Duchess of Sussex Megan Markle, it’s good enough for us! Bootcut flares add lower volume that flatters the legs and balances out top-heavy apple figures.
Silver Jeans Suki Slim Boot Jean – This is a really flattering cut for plus size apple shapes with some volume in the leg but not too much. The mid-rise curvy fit in a medium sandblasted wash has 6% spandex for stretch and is available in short, regular and long lengths.
Old Navy Secret Slim-Pockets Mid-Rise Boot Cut Jeans – This boot cut style has a trouser-style leg, especially in this dark rinse. Also check out this elastic-waisted version, even though it has a rise.
4. Straight Leg
Straight leg jeans are a simple and timeless look. The traditional shape is essentially a trouser cut in denim and therefore a very versatile look. With the right rinse and top, straight leg jeans can be appropriate in casual work environments.
Levi’s Signature Modern Straight Jeans – These classic jeans are highlight legs without being tight. The slim straight fit also has a comfortable medium rise. Get them in black, dark rinse, or lighter rinse with whiskering.
5. Color
Think beyond basic blue and embrace colorful jeans. Whether it’s goes-with-everything gray or a deep burgundy, denim comes in a range of hues.
avenue Deep Teal Straight Leg Denim – One of avenue’s most popular jeans, this straight leg number sits at the natural waist. Plenty of stretch allows these jeans to keep their shape wear after wear. They are so comfortable, you’ll want them in every color including olive, burgundy, medium wash, dark wash, khaki, brown, and black.
6. Distressed
Whether you think holes in your jeans is appropriate probably depends on your age but the distressed look is back. There are many degrees, patterns and types of distressing to choose from.
Charlotte Russe Refuge Destroyed Skintight Legging Jeans – An updated version of the popular Refuge jeggings, these stretchy, skinny jeans have knee rips and whiskering for a hint of edge. Also available in white or black. For even more ripped look, check out these Destroyed Boyfriend Jeans.
William Rast Distressed Skinny Jeans – Instead of actual holes, this distressing and fading have a lived-in chic style.
7. Raw Hem
If you like the look, a raw hem is a grown-up way to add a distressed edge.
STS Blue Cara Cropped Slim Straight Jeans – Subtle whiskering and raw hems add some cool to these casual jeans. Dress them up with heels or down with flats.
8. Stripes
Tuxedo-style stripes are being added to jeans for a cool trouser look. Add a pop of color or go for basic black.
Eloquii Skinny Jean with Side Stripe – With a playful pink and teal stripe over a medium blue, these skinnies from Eloquii are flattering and fun.
I.N.C. Plus Size Racing-Stripe Skinny Jeans – These black skinnies with white racing stripes will take you from work to play. Designed for Macy’s, these flattering mid-rise pants are available in sizes 14-22.
9. Crops
Just like flares, the key to crop jeans is length. Many boyfriend and girlfriend styles are cropped thanks to a hem that can be rolled up and down. Other options land where they land and may or may not be able to be hemmed. For shorter legs, look for petite sizes.
Universal Thread Kick Boot Crop Jeans – Universal Thread is another trendy and cheap plus size denim option by Target. These cute crops are also flared boot cut jeans so you get two hot looks at once. These are ultra flattering for apple shapes, as long as the length works for your height.
10 . Overalls
As part of the return of the 90s, overalls are back! For apple shapes, look for overalls with a tighter leg and fitted silhouette that doesn’t add bulk.
Universal Standard Brooks Overalls – Just throw on a shirt and overalls for an adorable look. Available in black and gray, this is a great chance to wear your loudest tops.
