15 denim questions answered: Baggy vs skinny jeans, when to wash, how to alter them and more

Denim is an everyday staple for many. It’s even taken over the fashion runways. From Loewe to Gucci and Chanel, models walked down the Spring-Summer and Fall-Winter 2024 runways showcasing a range of denim trends, including knee-length turned up shorts and casual baggy options. Italian brand, Miu Miu, even launched a whole collection, Miu Miu Upcycled, to give pre-2000 denim new life.
But finding the right rise, style and knowing how to style it can be challenging for some.
CNA Lifestyle asked the experts, from fashion label reps to fashion stylists and even celebs on how to elevate a plain old pair of denims. Start taking notes.
1. WHAT ARE THE UPCOMING DENIM TRENDS?
This casual staple takes a dressier approach. “We will start seeing denim jeans play out with hard creases like pleats and pintucks as added details. The effect makes jeans resemble trousers,” fashion stylist and creative consultant Daryll Alexius Yeo pointed out.
There’s also the rise of dark-wash jeans. “It’s not too casual and works well for corporate wear,” shared Furqan Saini, fashion stylist and creative director of fashion creative agency, Major Minor Agency.
Yeo added: “It’s the denim trend that I would like to get behind because of its dressed-up appeal. Think deep-indigo jeans and accompanying co-ords ranging from a straight-leg style to a slouchy wide-leg style.”
2. HOW CAN I PULL OFF THE DOUBLE DENIM LOOK?
Also known as the Canadian tux, the double denim look plays by certain rules.
“Take note of the shade of denim,” said Evon Chng, fashion stylist and founder of BeastCorp. Newbies might prefer to opt for raw or untreated denim as the darker shade tends to give the informal nature of denim an elevated appeal.
Evon also added that contrasts work great as well. “Think formal and unexpected tailoring in the casual denim fabric, like a denim blazer with a denim shirt.”
Or take inspiration from actress-model Chen Yixin, who paired a denim dress with a denim shirt.
You can also try a slightly cropped denim jacket with a high-waisted jeans with a bootcut style to “give the illusion of longer legs and a snatched waist”, shared Furqan. 
3. WHAT’S THE PERFECT RISE FOR…
Longer legs: Go with a pair of high-waisted jeans that sits just above your natural waistline to instantly create the illusion of longer legs. However, going too high can make your mid-section appear shorter, and thus, unbalanced.
Smaller hips: In addition to a darker wash, structured denim with less stretch offers a more controlled fit. Alternatively, consider straight or bootcut jeans to help balanced the hips with the rest of the body, said Benjamin Tay, co-founder of Made Suits.
A perkier bottom: According to Furqan, the secret to a lifted derriere lies in a deep V-line. This refers to the yoke – the V-shaped section below the waistband and above the pockets at the back of your jeans. And depending on the cut, it can range from a deep V to a shallow or unnoticeable V.
A rep from Levi’s also recommended opting for darker washes with higher placed pockets at the back in mid-to high-rise styles to flatter your shape, instead of low-rise or skinny styles as these tend to emphasise width rather than lift.
And make stretch denim your best friend. “The stretchier, the better, as it will mould to your curves for a lifting and shaping effect,” added the rep.
4. WHAT’S THE PERFECT FIT FOR CURVIER BODIES?
To accentuate your curves, go for high-rise jeans with a contoured waistband to prevent any gaps at the back, said Tay. He also advised choosing stretch denim as it retains its shape while offering comfort when worn.
What to avoid? Low-rise jeans and heavy embellishments on the pockets that can add bulk.
5. ARE SKINNY JEANS COMING BACK?
Despite the current baggy trend, you might want to hold onto your skinnies, said Chng. “I foresee skinny jeans will soon regain its throw in the closets of fashion enthusiasts after the season of baggy styles wrap up.”
To style, pair black skinny jeans with a reliable t-shirt and ballet flats, suggested Chng.
6. THE BAGGIER THE JEANS THE BETTER?   
“The key to baggy jeans is a relaxed fit that still holds some shape and gathers slightly at the hem. Think roomy, not sloppy,” emphasised Yeo.
While there is nothing wrong with sizing up your regular jeans to get a roomier fit, you should always ensure that the waistband fits well (lays flat against the waist) even if you have to use a belt, he added.
Chng also advised choosing denim with a heavier fabric for structure.
When it comes to styling, Yeo suggested pairing the jeans with a blazer for a “tailored contrast” and completing the look with socks and loafers for an effortless styling appeal.
Alternatively, add a fitted darted shirt, and wear chunkier and taller shoes to lengthen the silhouette for a better fit, said Chng.
7. WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO WEAR CROPPED JEANS?
“The perfect length is just above the ankle,” said Yeo.​​​​
Cropped jeans are also more versatile than you give them credit for. “Dress them up with a pair of Mary Jane flats and a flowy top, or keep the look casual with sneakers and your favourite off-duty hoodie.”
8. SHOULD I BE CUFFING MY JEANS?
While there isn’t a fixed rule as everyone’s body shape is different, Chng plays by these rules:
9. HOW CAN I DRESS UP MY DENIM?
Try embellished denim, such as sequins, eyelet details or a metallic wash, for a fun take, said Yeo.
“Personally, I think it’s adventurous to invest in at least one pair of jeans that is more daring than your usual everyday options – one that you can whip out for special nights out. And pairing it with something classic like a white shirt (unbuttoned above the bust area and sleeves cuffed) or a thin turtleneck pullover will also instantly take it into a chic territory.”
Alternatively, accessorise with some bling. “Pair it with jewellery, like a tennis necklace, bracelets and chunky earrings with precious stones. This high-low mix gives the look an attitude,” said Chng.
Actress Chen Yixin recommended light, silverware accessories. “It’s very Y2K now and I think it’s perfect for this current trend.”
10. COLOURED DENIM – YES OR NO?
You can add a pair of white jeans to your wardrobe as an alternative to your usual denim as it’s a perennial option, said Yeo. But “pastel denims tend to look overly trendy and/or dated.”
When styling white jeans, Yeo offered these tips:
Classic stripes and mules: Pair them with a blue-and-navy striped tank top for a summer vacation appeal, and add simple black mules for a chic, daytime look.
Texture tops and black accessories: Combine them with a crochet top or linen shirt, and ground the outfit with 90s-inspired accessories like a pair of sleek blackout sunnies or kitten heels for a sophisticated approach.
Layered office-appropriate look: Make them office-ready by tucking in a classic tailored white shirt, looped with a thin black belt around the waist for shape, and step into a pair of python-effect mules or burgundy-toned loafers, depending on your vibe.
11. ARE MATERNITY JEANS ANY GOOD?
While actress, model and mother-of-two Sheila Sim didn’t wear maternity jeans often during her pregnancy, when she did, she loved wearing them over her bump. Thanks to the stretchy over-the-bump panel, it felt like it was “giving the bump a good hug”, each time she wore them.
Her PSA for stylish mums-to-be: “Don’t get ripped maternity jeans. You won’t be able to see where your feet goes when wearing them, and it’ll be hard to get them out with your big bump!”
12. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WASH MY JEANS?
The general rule of thumb: Consider the activities you’re engaged in while wearing them.
“Given Singapore’s hot and humid climate, if you are wearing a pair of jeans out in the sun, the jeans are bound to absorb a lot of your sweat and dirt through the day’s wear,” shared Chan Weitian, second generation owner of Presto Drycleaners.
To assess when it’s time to wash your jeans, use your three senses: Sight, Touch and Smell, said Chan.
See if there are any visible stains as you would need to treat those first. Feel if the jeans are damp; if so, wash them as sweat stains and dirt can build up easily. Lastly, sniff your jeans and if they smell, it’s definitely time for a wash.
When washing, always choose a low cycle, said Fahmy Ismail, founder of Kerbside&Co. And wash it inside-out to preserve the colour.
The type of material matters as well, added Chan
Raw denim: Avoid washing for the first six months to allow the material to conform to your body shape and develop a unique fade. During this period, try to stay away from intense activity while wearing them to reduce sweat and dirt build up before washing.
Denim with stretch: Wash every three to five wears to prevent the jeans from becoming too loose, due to the mix blend in the material. And don’t forget to take note of the drying methods recommended by the manufacturer.
Distressed denim: Wash sparingly to maintain the distressed look. Also put them in a laundry bag during washing to prevent the fraying doesn’t worsen quickly.
Denim with a special wash: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions because it depends on the special wash or special material.
13. WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO DRY MY JEANS?
According to Chan, hang your denim to dry outside in a place with good air circulation. “This will help in maintaining its shape and preventing shrinkage. You can hang it by the waistband or legs. And avoid direct sunlight as this will cause your denim to lose its colour quickly.”
Alternatively, lay them flat to dry to avoid excessive stretching, advised Tay. “And if you must use a dryer, always use it on the lowest heat setting.”
14. HOW CAN I MAKE MY JEANS LAST LONGER?
Avoid overloading the pockets with bulky items – like overly stuffed wallets or too many heavy coins.
“Many times we’ve noticed that the pockets are the first to show signs of wear and tear due to friction and stretch,” said Tay, who added you should hang denim when storing to prevent creases and help maintain its shape.
When handwashing, don’t forget to agitate the areas around the thighs (this is where constant abrasions and sweat spots form) and folded hems where dirt tends to gather, advised Fahmy. And make sure your jeans are fully dry before storing, especially around the waistband and pockets to prevent mildew, he added.
15. HOW MUCH SHOULD WE ALTER OUR JEANS?
You can alter your jeans for a perfect fit, “but keep the alterations minimal”, cautioned Tay.
Added Fahmy: “Taking in the waist up to an inch is acceptable, anything more than that, I would not really recommend as the curve of the seat might get compromised.” He also advised against trimming more than three inches in length as this can affect the silhouette of the jeans.
In short, “avoid altering the rise or drastically changing the original design, as it can affect the overall look and fit,” emphasised Tay.