Boyfriend Jeans: How Can a 40 Something Pull Off the Look?

(Anonymous)

I'm approaching 41, have 3 kids age 3,5,9 so I feel younger than my age (some days).

I'm no longer a size 7/9 more like a 14. About 5'6 with somewhat of a baby belly still. I love the look of boyfriend jeans, casual but chic.

From all I have read that's considered plus size. So my question is can a 40 something, average height, plus size mom pull off this look without giving the impression of wanting to look 20?


Yes, boyfriend jeans are perfect for plus size figures and anyone who wants to disguise the extra flab, simply because of the loose and casual fit of the pants.

The jeans do have a chic and trendy flair to them which feels a bit intimidating for the 40+ woman. Boyfriend jeans can never be work-appropriate and are for kicking around in the weekends (or chasing after your kids).

So how can you pull off this look even though your last day on a college campus was 20 years ago?

How to Wear Boyfriend Jeans in your 30s and 40s

Charlize Theron (34), Amanda Peet (38), Katie Holmes (31), Sarah Jessica Parker (45). Courtesy of celebutopia, people, denimblog

Fit is important.
Boyfriend jeans are supposed to be loose but for your age you should make sure that they aren't too baggy in the thighs or around the hips. They must have a great fit around your butt.

If this is your first purchase buy dark wash first.
Darker jeans are more versatile, flattering and appropriate for 30+ women compared to their young-Californian-look-lightwash-sister :-)

Stick to simple styles.
That means leave out the shredded and acid wash effects, and go for plain dark or light wash jeans. But of course, if you're feeling frisky a couple of shreds are ok but make sure you balance it out with basic and tailored pieces. More on this in the next points.

Add classy pieces for a mature look.
Charlize Theron who is well over 30 does it well with a feminine silk blouse topped with a tailored blazer and simple white ballerina flats. A basic tee like the plus size Macy's model is wearing (top of this article) is also enough to balance it to look sleek yet casual.

Straight Jeans/Gap

Stick to a simple color scheme.
Neutrals such as black, white and gray are your best investments, especially if you're over 40. And are in my opinion a more subtle and classier than tops with busy prints. However you can wear them with bright color tops as long as they solid.

If you want to add a splash of color you can swap the print top with a pair of funky pumps or a necklace.

Flats go well with boyfriend at your age
Despite that boyfriend jeans worn with high heels is considered trendy. Flats are a fool-proof choice of shoes to wear with the jeans. However if you're comfortable wearing heels or want to add that extra something when lunching with your friend or going on a date with your hubby then compliment the outfit with a pair of simple platform heels (ex. plus size Macy's model), and maybe a cute clutch purse. The shoes make you look taller and leaner.

Another alternative to add some height to your frame and walk comfortably in shoes is to select 1-2inch wedge heels.

Add a belt.

It gives your waist some definition. It also helps balance the loose silhouette of the jeans. This looks especially chic if you're wearing a long/or loose top.

For your body type I suggest stretch belts to keep your tummy in without creating bulges around the midsection, or instead of adding a belt, opt for an empire line top. This cut is perfect for skimming over the tummy and at the same time look nipped around the waist, more precisely right below your bust.

All in all, wear boyfriend jeans in a way that make you feel comfortable and reflect your personal clothing style and taste. :-)

Here are some boyfriend jeans recommendations available in sizes 14 and up.

I have also written a page on buying boyfriend jeans if you need more advice and shopping recommendations.

Hope this helps!

Sincerely,




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