Dear John Denim
Denim Fit Guide
There is nothing better than finding the perfect pair. Core silhouettes, how rigid denim behaves versus stretch, and a spotlight style per fit. We favor pieces in New Arrivals and the Evergreen wash when we feature a jean.
01 — Fit
Straight
Rise From mid to super high—choose the rise that balances your torso and footwear.
Leg Even width from thigh to hem for a clean line that works with sneakers, loafers, or heels.
Look The everyday silhouette: polished enough for work, easy enough for weekends.
02 — Fit
Skinny & jegging
Rise Typically mid to high rise to smooth the midsection and anchor a close leg.
Leg Slim from hip through ankle—streamlined without feeling costume-y.
Look Tucks cleanly into boots and balances oversized knits and blazers.
03 — Fit
Bootcut
Rise Bootcut packs include mid rise and high rise colorways—confirm on the product you are buying.
Leg Fitted through thigh and knee, opening subtly below the knee for boots or a slight stack.
Look Classic proportion play: slim on top, gentle flare at the shoe.
04 — Fit
Flare
Rise Often mid rise (Jeanne and Rosa packs list mid rise); cropped lengths change how the flare hits the shoe. Confirm rise on the PDP.
Leg Fitted through the hip and thigh with a pronounced opening from the knee down.
Look Seventies polish or modern minimal—depending on wash and rise.
05 — Fit
Boyfriend & girlfriend
Rise From relaxed mid to easy high—roomier in the top block for a borrowed-from-him feel.
Leg Straight or slightly tapered with an easy thigh and casual leg opening.
Look Effortless, slightly slouchy, perfect with a slim tee or tucked blouse.
06 — Fit
Jogger
Rise Mid to high rise depending on style—Sandy and other cargos often sit higher; always confirm on the PDP.
Leg Tapers toward the ankle—often cuffed or banded—for a sporty denim alternative.
Look Off-duty uniform: sneakers, slides, or low-profile boots.
07 — Fit
Wide leg
Rise Rise varies by style—Fiona and Audrey are typically high rise; Micah is typically mid rise. Confirm on the PDP.
Leg Generous sweep from thigh through hem for movement and air.
Look Architectural and easy—pairs with fitted tops to balance proportion.
Fabric
Rigid vs stretch
How denim behaves in the hand: structured vintage character versus easy recovery—both have a place in your closet.
Rigid
Rigid & non-stretch
Looks like
Authentic indigo character, defined creases, and a true vintage drape that holds its shape.
Feels like
Firm in the fitting room, then yours after a few wears—like a great vintage find that keeps getting better.
Stretch
Stretch
Looks like
Clean, smooth surfaces with dependable recovery—especially in slim and wide-leg shapes.
Feels like
Lightweight to midweight with easy give: comfortable on day one, easy through travel and long days.
At home
How to measure
No fitting room? Use a soft tape and compare to measurements on each product page.
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01
Waist
Around your natural waist where you like denim to sit—level tape, comfortably loose.
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02
Front rise
Crotch seam to top of waistband. Shows how high the jean will sit.
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03
Inseam
Inner leg from crotch to hem. Match to listed inseams for cuffs or heels.
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04
Leg opening
Hem flat, seam to seam—preview stack or flare over your shoes.