What to wear OFF the saddle? (Incredible Hulk thighs)

[emoseman]

I just finished 7600km of my very first tour and now it seems that none of my pants are comfortable around my thighs.

I do plan to keep this muscle mass but what do you gals recommend for beefed up legs but still a size 6 waist. Am I destined to wear Spandex and leggings for the rest of my life? Should I bid farewell to my skinny jeans?

Yours Truly,
"In front of the computer with no pants":eek:

[Crankin]

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=35470&highlight=thigh+pants

Here you go!

[Zen]

I'm liking the denim leggings (i can't bring myself to call them jeggings)
They're comfortable and stretchy
If you get a good quality pair they look just like jeans.

[Crankin]

I love the "jeggings." They go right over my calves.

[malkin]

I think I may have exceeded the acceptable age for wearing jeggings.

[Zen]

No, not if your top is long enough.
Either with boots or ballet flats.
If I can do it so can you.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I wear short skirts and dresses over black leggings or capri leggings almost every day.

[KnottedYet]

I think I may have exceeded the acceptable age for wearing jeggings.

They say you should never wear a fashion the second and third times it comes around in your lifetime.

I did the "jegging" thing in the 1980's, and see no need to do it again.

[Zen]

I never do what they say.

[Crankin]

Malkin, I am just a couple of years younger than you.... I am short, too, but the Loft has jeggings in petite sizes. The jeggings don't look any different than skinny jeans, really. Yesterday I went to work wearing leggings (yea, Athleta, who has leggings for short people) with a sweater dress and flats. Now that i found leggings that fit me, I plan to get some cool looking boots and wear them a lot this winter. One of the other interns, from another school, thought I was in my 30s! She must need glasses.. Seriously, she told me her mother would never dress like me.
With all of the riding we do, we deserve to wear whatever we want. Yes, I wore leggings in the '80s, along with the long sweaters and shirts, and I don't quite want to repeat that look. At least I don't have big hair hair anymore.

[lph]

According to Assos, bless their optimistic Eurofashion hearts, you should wear this:

:D :D

[PamNY]

I don't see anything wrong with leggings at any age if the overall look is fashionable and suits your body.

My problem with leggings is finding shoes that look good with them and work on a Xootr.

[shootingstar]

lph--LOL.

At this time in life, I'm abit of a fashion duh. I will get back into it when I have to. But for now I slug around off bike on rainy days, in jeans over 15 years old.

You can imagine what type of style that would be.

[GLC1968]

According to Assos, bless their optimistic Eurofashion hearts, you should wear this:

:D :D

Awesome! LOL

I won't wear jeggings/leggins except for around the house or for athletics. Women with small upper bodies and big legs should NOT wear long sweaters over leggings unless they want to make themselves look like a box! :eek: I didn't wear them in the 80's either.

For regular jeans, try the bold curve from Levi's. But be forewarned, they run VERY small. I ordered according to my measurements and I could not get them over my rear. They were definitely cut the right way for larger thighs, smaller waist though. I exchanged them for a larger size, so I'll report back when they arrive (mail order). :)

[malkin]

No, not if your top is long enough.
Either with boots or ballet flats.
If I can do it so can you.


Getting the top long enough is really the issue for me. Durning the 80s I made a few tops, knitted a few sweaters, and had one sweatshirt that I washed on delicate so it stayed long for a long time.

Okay, having the pant legs long enough to not look comical at the ankles is a bit of an issue too. There can be no gap between the top of the elf boots and the leggings!

And I agree with the maxim Knot posted about not wearing a fashion on the second or third round--although, I'm not sure what we'd be left with, since everything seems to have come and gone and then returned. I'm sticking to DG Jeans and a shirt for most purposes.

And for Assos, ya gotta love 'em!
Years ago, some knucklehead told me I should be a model for jumpsuits, because my bodytype was perfect for it. WTH is that?! I think it was a pick-up, but anyway, who wants to look good in a jumpsuit? Prisoners? Paratroopers?

Maybe my knucklehead grew up to be a designer for Assos!

[ultraviolet]

I wear short skirts and dresses over black leggings or capri leggings almost every day.

Me, too! :cool:

In colder weather, I throw some thicker knit bamboo tights into the mix.

[Zen]

sweaters over leggings unless they want to make themselves look like a box!

Not a bulky sweater.
A light drapey knit.

I've been watching too much Project Runway

[ny biker]

I watch too much Stacy and Clinton. They would say: (1) wear trouser jeans (dark wash) and (2) fit the largest part of you and then have a tailor make the rest fit, which in this case would mean altering the waist.

[GLC1968]

Not a bulky sweater.
A light drapey knit.

I've been watching too much Project Runway

Not on this body. My legs are too short, my torso too long. Long sweaters or jackets just makes this even worse! Honestly, when crop tops and high waisted pants were in, I was rockin' it! Now I just try not to offend. ;)

[redrhodie]

Maybe "bold curve" Levis would work for cycling thighs:

http://us.levi.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=3146900&cp=3146849.3146879.3146880

You can even get skinny jeans versions.

[redrhodie]

If I get those jeans, will I finally have a 'bold' curve to my hips?

Thicker waist, narrow hips here.


I don't think it works that way. They have a quiz, so you can figure out your curve factor. You don't sound like a "bold" to me.

You could always get these ;)

http://www.teddygirl.com/buttenhance.html

[malkin]

That Quiz gave me the best laugh! (so + points for the mental health challenge!)

I had to get Brewer to help me out otherwise I wouldn't have gotten off the first screen!

I don't think any of those pants would work for me though.

What are the numbers 28 25 32? Is that a size?

[shootingstar]

redrhodie, good grief.:p

Wonder how many women actually buy this stuff.
Imagine if those padded butt cheeks moved.. Fashion is already complicated enough with right jean fit. Why complicate it more? :confused:

[Crankin]

Malkin, those are sizes, waist sizes. A lot of manufacturers are using waist sizes... but, usually (and I mean usually) 26=2, 27=4, 28=6, etc. I know J Crew has been doing this with jeans for awhile.

[lph]

You could always get these ;)

http://www.teddygirl.com/buttenhance.html

Hey! I can go buy myself some hips! I've always wanted some ;)

[malkin]

Hey! I can go buy myself some hips! I've always wanted some ;)

I'm sure there are surgeons in southern California who would be happy to sell you some. With installation.

[jessmarimba]

Hahaha I got bold curve!

I actually can't think of anyone who would seriously describe me as "curvy." Even my sister says, "your butt isn't big, it just sticks out a lot." Nothing up top to balance it, either.

[zoom-zoom]

For regular jeans, try the bold curve from Levi's. But be forewarned, they run VERY small. I ordered according to my measurements and I could not get them over my rear. They were definitely cut the right way for larger thighs, smaller waist though. I exchanged them for a larger size, so I'll report back when they arrive (mail order). :)

I seem to recall from earlier discussion that you and I are built similarly. Have you ever worn the 529 "Curvy" Levis? I have several pair of these and find that they are not even curvy enough for me. My 6s fit me in the waist, but are TIGHT through my butt and thighs. My 8s fit beautifully through my rump and quads, but are gappy in the waist.

I want to get a pair of the Bold curve Curve ID jeans, but am not sure what size would work. Thoughts? I'm thinking 28 or 29...? :confused:

[malkin]

Hahaha I got bold curve!

I actually can't think of anyone who would seriously describe me as "curvy." Even my sister says, "your butt isn't big, it just sticks out a lot." Nothing up top to balance it, either.


I remembered your sister's line a couple times today, and it just cracked me up all over again!

[GLC1968]

I seem to recall from earlier discussion that you and I are built similarly. Have you ever worn the 529 "Curvy" Levis? I have several pair of these and find that they are not even curvy enough for me. My 6s fit me in the waist, but are TIGHT through my butt and thighs. My 8s fit beautifully through my rump and quads, but are gappy in the waist.

I want to get a pair of the Bold curve Curve ID jeans, but am not sure what size would work. Thoughts? I'm thinking 28 or 29...? :confused:

I have the same problem with the 529's. That, and I couldn't find them short enough (my legs are REALLY short). They are the best that I've found, but still not quite right.

I ordered the bold curve ones in a 28 and a 29 since that's what my measurements said. I couldn't even get the 28's past my thighs and the 29's couldn't get past my ample booty. They definitely LOOKED good when I held them up though - they curved where they should! I have a 31 on the way, but they haven't arrived yet. They should be here soon and I can let you know. For reference, my waist is 27", hips are 37" and thighs are 23.5" (I'm tracking these numbers as I lose weight, so I know these are still current!).

[zoom-zoom]

I have the same problem with the 529's. That, and I couldn't find them short enough (my legs are REALLY short). They are the best that I've found, but still not quite right.

I ordered the bold curve ones in a 28 and a 29 since that's what my measurements said. I couldn't even get the 28's past my thighs and the 29's couldn't get past my ample booty. They definitely LOOKED good when I held them up though - they curved where they should! I have a 31 on the way, but they haven't arrived yet. They should be here soon and I can let you know. For reference, my waist is 27", hips are 37" and thighs are 23.5" (I'm tracking these numbers as I lose weight, so I know these are still current!).

Wow, sounds like their sizing is WAY off, then. Good to know in advance. I think my hips are closer to 39, thighs are a skosh over 23, never really know where to measure for waist, since I never wear jeans that come up anywhere near my natural waist.

[Selkie]

It's amazing how many of us have this issue---small waist, muscular glutes/thighs. If I had the resources, I'd start a clothing line with sizes catering to athletic females.

Complicating the issue for me is the vanity sizing trend. I'm finding the zero petites are too big in the waist while (at times), too tight in the thighs (and too short in inseams since I'm 5'5"). I am not anorexic-thin and am within the "normal" range of the height/weight charts. Might end up having to shop in Juniors, although most of those jeans are cut way too low for my taste.

[jessmarimba]

LL Bean also seems to have relatively small sizes for bottoms. Though they also don't seem to much room for curves - my butt won't fit in any of their pants/shorts unless I'm in a size that the waist is HUGE. I can't speak for thigh room though (by the time I got a pair to pull over my behind, the legs were pretty big on me).

And they're definitely into vanity sizing at Gap, but their Long and Lean (and some of their curvy fit styles) pants seem comfortably stretchy over my chunky legs/butt!

Oh. One more plug. I've had some luck with www.myshape.com - you enter ALL of your measurements and select how you like your clothes to fit, and it comes up with sizes and styles that are flattering. But the clothes aren't cheap.

[GLC1968]

Ok, I got my bold curve levi jeans yesterday. Apparently, I'm more of a colossal curve? They are still too big in the waist!! :eek:

The 31x30 fit great in the legs and are the perfect length for me, but they are still a tad too loose in the waist. What I meant to do and forgot was measure the waistband of the jeans which actually sits just above my hips. If it's actually a 31, then that would explain why their sizing is so off. Of course these jeans don't go anywhere near my natural waist, so using 'waist' as a measurement is just stupid. They should call it 'belly' or something. Oh, and they do have a hint on their website that if you measure 8" below your natural waist and compare that to their chart, you should be able to order the correct size. That didn't work for me, either. That measurement still put me in a 28 or 29. :confused:

Anyway, these are the best fitting jeans I've ever found, and I NEVER wear jeans without a belt anyway, so these will work fine for me. It kills me that even a BOLD curve is not bold enough for my body though! :p

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I gave up long ago in finding jeans that
A) fit me.
B) don't feel uncomfortably restrictive in places
and
C) look good on me.

I switched to leggings and tights and never looked back! Freedom! :D

[zoom-zoom]

Ok, I got my bold curve levi jeans yesterday. Apparently, I'm more of a colossal curve? They are still too big in the waist!! :eek:

The 31x30 fit great in the legs and are the perfect length for me, but they are still a tad too loose in the waist. What I meant to do and forgot was measure the waistband of the jeans which actually sits just above my hips. If it's actually a 31, then that would explain why their sizing is so off. Of course these jeans don't go anywhere near my natural waist, so using 'waist' as a measurement is just stupid. They should call it 'belly' or something. Oh, and they do have a hint on their website that if you measure 8" below your natural waist and compare that to their chart, you should be able to order the correct size. That didn't work for me, either. That measurement still put me in a 28 or 29. :confused:

Anyway, these are the best fitting jeans I've ever found, and I NEVER wear jeans without a belt anyway, so these will work fine for me. It kills me that even a BOLD curve is not bold enough for my body though! :p

I am going to have to get myself a pair at some point. It is frustrating, though, that even the bold curve version may be gappy in the waist. It's bad enough that I really want a 31 inseam jeans, so 30s are a hair short and 32s drag on the ground. I should just have custom jeans made. :p

[Selkie]

... I'm a little curious how you are in petite being 5'5''. Are you very long-torsoed? ....

I'm small-boned, petite frame but not petite in terms of height (does that make sense?). Unless they are cut for wear with heels, petite jeans are floods on me (I refuse to wear heels, particularly those pointy toed, bunion makers). Most of misses' smallest sizes are 25" waist. My waist is smaller. Like GLC, I've resorted to having to wear a belt with jeans and pants, which I don't like.

I'm also like Bleeker---I wear a lot of leggings and "workout" pants (spandex is my friend!).

[redrhodie]

Ok, I got my bold curve levi jeans yesterday. Apparently, I'm more of a colossal curve? They are still too big in the waist!! :eek:

The 31x30 fit great in the legs and are the perfect length for me, but they are still a tad too loose in the waist. What I meant to do and forgot was measure the waistband of the jeans which actually sits just above my hips. If it's actually a 31, then that would explain why their sizing is so off. Of course these jeans don't go anywhere near my natural waist, so using 'waist' as a measurement is just stupid. They should call it 'belly' or something. Oh, and they do have a hint on their website that if you measure 8" below your natural waist and compare that to their chart, you should be able to order the correct size. That didn't work for me, either. That measurement still put me in a 28 or 29. :confused:

Anyway, these are the best fitting jeans I've ever found, and I NEVER wear jeans without a belt anyway, so these will work fine for me. It kills me that even a BOLD curve is not bold enough for my body though! :p

I bet the waist will shrink to fit. If they're not too short, dry them in the dryer.

[Selkie]

.. Large boned, also a lot of muscle naturally. Some curve and some more athletic build to me. (Curvy tops, straight hips) I always think of myself as small though. My sister is 6 feet and very broad-shouldered compared to me. (Yes, I am broad-shouldered!). And she wears a size twelve shoe. My brothers are 6'1'' and 6'5''. Their shoe sizes are 13 and 15. In my family I'm the runt and feel tiny! After all, I only wear a size 10 shoe. (43 in road shoes). Always hard for me to comprehend that I'm average sized in a lot of measurements, and taller than average in height.

I get jealous of people with your build sometimes. But it is pretty easy to find clothing.

Except women's jeans :rolleyes:

And I always wanted to be taller and larger boned, like a Nordic Princess! Or like Gabrielle Reese or Serena Willams (altho I don't think she's that tall)

[GLC1968]

And I always wanted to be taller and larger boned, like a Nordic Princess! Or like Gabrielle Reese or Serena Willams (altho I don't think she's that tall)

Me too! Well, not larger boned...I've got that covered. I wanted to be taller - towering, actually. Eh. Grass is always greener, right? :p

[zoom-zoom]

Me too! Well, not larger boned...I've got that covered. I wanted to be taller - towering, actually. Eh. Grass is always greener, right? :p

I don't even care about being taller, but a shorter torso and longer inseam would be cool. :cool:

[GLC1968]

I don't even care about being taller, but a shorter torso and longer inseam would be cool. :cool:

Good point. I just wanted longer legs and arms, actually. I do like having a long torso - it makes my abs look good! So long torso + longer appendages = taller. :)

[zoom-zoom]

Good point. I just wanted longer legs and arms, actually. I do like having a long torso - it makes my abs look good! So long torso + longer appendages = taller. :)

Ok, that would work, too. I'm 5'3.5". I'd like to be 5'5", with all of that extra height in my legs. That would make 32" inseam jeans fit me just the way I like, instead of dragging on the ground. 30" inseam jeans always seem to be just a hair shorter than I like, right now.

[GLC1968]

Ok, that would work, too. I'm 5'3.5". I'd like to be 5'5", with all of that extra height in my legs. That would make 32" inseam jeans fit me just the way I like, instead of dragging on the ground. 30" inseam jeans always seem to be just a hair shorter than I like, right now.

Awesome! Yeah, I'm 5'4", so I'd like about three inches in my legs to get me to ~ 5'7" (and a 32" inseam as well).

Now...who do we talk to about getting this done? ;)

[zoom-zoom]

Heh, look at this model from Interbike. Does that body type look familiar to anyone?
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4153/5016242066_9c5055d235_z.jpg

[jelee1311]

Have you tried lee jeans they make some that have good sized legs and a no gap waist. Also target and old navy got some new styles in and I finally found a pair that fits. Good luck

[batsheva]

i see people in leggings all the time in Wal-Mart

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Heh, look at this model from Interbike. Does that body type look familiar to anyone?

No, I only have one nipple on each breast. ;)
Is that a bathing suit? :confused:


i see people in leggings all the time in Wal-Mart

I don't go to WalMart anymore (every visit got more and more unpleasant), but last time i went everyone was in giant sweat pants, not leggings.

LUV my leggings, wear 'em in all different ways and combinations! :D

Had to give up on jeans long ago- when they fit my hips they are always 4" too big around my waist. :eek: Long live curves!

[Crankin]

Well, I don't have a chest like that model, but the thighs look familiar. Yea, that's why I don't wear cycling shorts that are that short. Or any "boy" shorts. I've bought a few pairs of new pants for the winter. I've lost maybe 2 pounds in the last month and for some reason, that has made it a little easier to fit into pants. The thighs are always a bit tight, no matter what size in a particular brand I buy, but I can live with it. I like the slimmer fit pants and jeans, so I have found that styles called "modern fit" are good. They are not as tight as "skinny" jeans, but aren't mom jeans, either. Banana Republic has a new fit called the Logan. It runs big, so I buy a size smaller than usual, but it fits me well, proportionally.
Now if I could just solve the problem of petite sizes being made in 30" inseam, when they used to be 28.5 or 29. I have had to spend good money getting pants hemmed. And no, I cannot sew and believe me, never will.

[jessmarimba]

I think the "four nipples" are from a piercing. Ouch.

But yes, the length of her shorts isn't exactly flattering. I was so excited when boy short bikinis became popular, until I saw myself in the mirror. :eek:

And Crankin, I so wish we had more length sizes, like men do!

[nscrbug]

I just had to chime in on this thread, because I had a horrifying moment this morning that I wanted to share with you all.

Before I got into cycling, I was into motorcycling...big time. I still have my Harley Softail...and today, instead of going on my usual long Sunday bike ride...I instead, took out my Harley and went on a lovely fall colors ride up into Wisconsin. It was chilly this morning, so I had to dig out my leather chaps. When I went to put them on, I just about cried when I could NOT zipper them down my thighs!!! Apparently, a downside to cycling is that it made my thighs even bigger than they already were...oh joy! :eek: I did manage to wrangle them on, eventually...but not without pinching myself with the zipper a few times, first.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Bike muscles are not to be confused with fat. Be proud of your muscled legs- they look great and they say great things about you!

I'm also trying to figure out what people are finding wrong with the thighs in the model's photo in the bathing suit. Is there something wrong or 'unflattering' about her thighs...because I'm so not seeing that.... ?? :confused: Her legs look lovely, fit, and normal to me. I must be blind?

[Crankin]

I think she looks fit, but boy shorts generally do not flatter athletic thighs. It's just a question of finding something a little longer. And, they just ride up on me; very uncomfortable. Of course, no one sees my Ibex boy shorts underwear, but at times, I have to stop skiing or snow shoeing to ah, readjust.
I see my athletic thighs as a badge of "strength." I just wish that there were more clothing manufacturers who realized that some women have this issue. Believe me, I used to have fat thighs and i know the difference!

[KnottedYet]

I'm also trying to figure out what people are finding wrong with the thighs in the model's photo in the bathing suit. Is there something wrong or 'unflattering' about her thighs...because I'm so not seeing that.... ?? :confused: Her legs look lovely, fit, and normal to me. I must be blind?

I don't think anybody is finding anything "wrong" or unflattering about the thighs in the photo. No-one has said a single negative thing about her thighs. Her shorts, however...

We just recognize the body type as being similar to our own.

And as we've all experienced, most trousers are designed for women who do not get much exercise. I would imagine the person who designed her lycra suit was used to designing clothes for more sedentary women, as the cut and the placement of the belt and ruching would be flattering on a woman without muscles but fall short of setting off this woman's fine legs.

[zoom-zoom]

Target/Mossimo Black "Curvy" jeans...curvy, my @ss. I tried on a pair and the waist was a hair big while the butt and thighs were skin-tight. I'm so tired of all these companies marketing curvy-fit jeans that are anything but. Levi's is the only company that has it anything close to right.

[GLC1968]

Just wanted to update: What I said about the bold curve levi's in my last post still holds true for the boot cut. BUT, I ordered a pair of the straight leg cut as well (also bold curve) and there is *almost* no waist gap at all. I can totally wear them without a belt if I wanted to!!!

BEST fitting jeans I've ever owned. :D

[7rider]

FWIW, I have had great luck with Chico's jeans (http://www.chicos.com/store/browse/product.jsp?maxRec=13&pageId=1&viewAll=&productId=prod5659281&prd=Platinum+Denim+Slim+Leg+Jean&subCatId=&color=1142&fromSearch=&inSeam=&posId=3&catId=cat190019&cat=Denim&onSale=&colorFamily=&maxPg=1&size=). They don't have their "modern fit" (i.e., low rise) any more, but the regular platinum slim leg fits my thunder thighs, and hippo hips just fine. With no huge gapping at the back. And - shockingly - the length is usually spot-on for me.

[zoom-zoom]

Just wanted to update: What I said about the bold curve levi's in my last post still holds true for the boot cut. BUT, I ordered a pair of the straight leg cut as well (also bold curve) and there is *almost* no waist gap at all. I can totally wear them without a belt if I wanted to!!!

BEST fitting jeans I've ever owned. :D

Ooh...I am really eyeballing the straight leg ones, too, since EVERY other pair of jeans I own are boot cut and I'd like something a little snugger through the ankle--without being skinny jeans (I have massive calves, so I couldn't do skinny, anyhow).

[zoom-zoom]

FWIW, I have had great luck with Chico's jeans (http://www.chicos.com/store/browse/product.jsp?maxRec=13&pageId=1&viewAll=&productId=prod5659281&prd=Platinum+Denim+Slim+Leg+Jean&subCatId=&color=1142&fromSearch=&inSeam=&posId=3&catId=cat190019&cat=Denim&onSale=&colorFamily=&maxPg=1&size=). They don't have their "modern fit" (i.e., low rise) any more, but the regular platinum slim leg fits my thunder thighs, and hippo hips just fine. With no huge gapping at the back. And - shockingly - the length is usually spot-on for me.

Those look nice, too...though I don't know that I could justify $80 for any pair of jeans. I'm kind of choking on the $60 for a pair of Levi's, too.

[ny biker]

Those look nice, too...though I don't know that I could justify $80 for any pair of jeans. I'm kind of choking on the $60 for a pair of Levi's, too.

That's why they invented sales. I almost never pay full price for jeans. I buy mine at J Jill, and I only buy them when they're on sale or I have a coupon.

I think I might stop in at Chico's the next time I go shopping to see about theirs, too.

[KnottedYet]

I think my shrink-to-fit Levis (and they really do shrink to fit) run $30-$40 a pair, sometimes on sale for $25, but rarely.

My work trousers cost a lot more ("Kut from the Kloth" or some goofy name like that) but I don't mind because they look good and they don't gap at the waist nor are they too short in the leg. The fabric of the ones I'm wearing today is a bit of a stretchy corduroy and incredibly comfortable.

I really hate shopping for pants because it's so hard to find any that don't gap in the back and are long enough.

[GLC1968]

Kirsten - Chico's probably won't work for you. Susan O passed a few pairs to me when she shrunk out of them last year and they are all too big in the waist. They are better than most jeans, but still not quite right. :mad:

Knot - I'm the same way except I need SHORT pants not long ones! Skirts are my friend, actually.

[7rider]

That's why they invented sales. I almost never pay full price for jeans. I buy mine at J Jill, and I only buy them when they're on sale or I have a coupon.

I think I might stop in at Chico's the next time I go shopping to see about theirs, too.

Same here. I just got those Chico jeans for something closer to $50. Full price makes me itch!! :)

[tulip]

I'm on the look-out for a new pair of jeans. I don't have large hips, so I don't need any special cut, but I like straight leg. My favorite jeans are some very old Levis that I've had forever. I hate shopping, though, so I haven't replaced them and they are way overdue for replacement.

Where are Levi's sold these days? I really don't want to go to a mall and hunt for them. I just want to know one store that I can go to, try them on, buy some, and go home.

Any advice?

[zoom-zoom]

I'm on the look-out for a new pair of jeans. I don't have large hips, so I don't need any special cut, but I like straight leg. My favorite jeans are some very old Levis that I've had forever. I hate shopping, though, so I haven't replaced them and they are way overdue for replacement.

Where are Levi's sold these days? I really don't want to go to a mall and hunt for them. I just want to know one store that I can go to, try them on, buy some, and go home.

Any advice?

At least for the Curvy cut I have seen them at Kohl's, JCP, Sears...and I believe Macy's carries them, too. I would guess that most popular dept. stores would carry some Levi's styles. I think even Wal-Mart has a lower-end line of Levi's jeans.

[tulip]

At least for the Curvy cut I have seen them at Kohl's, JCP, Sears...and I believe Macy's carries them, too. I would guess that most popular dept. stores would carry some Levi's styles. I think even Wal-Mart has a lower-end line of Levi's jeans.

Thanks, there is a JCP near me. I've never been there (did I mention that I HATE shopping malls?) but I'll give them a call to be sure before I head over there. There's another mall across town that has all the big stores. I dread going, but my jeans all have holes in them! They are like 10 years old! I'll have to just grit my teeth and get it over with. I think I'll wait until Monday, because there's no sense in going to a mall over the weekend.

[zoom-zoom]

Thanks, there is a JCP near me. I've never been there (did I mention that I HATE shopping malls?) but I'll give them a call to be sure before I head over there. There's another mall across town that has all the big stores. I dread going, but my jeans all have holes in them! They are like 10 years old! I'll have to just grit my teeth and get it over with. I think I'll wait until Monday, because there's no sense in going to a mall over the weekend.

I sympathize...I shop online and return what doesn't work.

[zoom-zoom]

Very nice...I just received my Levi's "bold curve" jeans.

Of course, they are STILL a bit too big at the waist (they are the straight-leg style and relatively low-rise), but definitely the best-fitting jeans I have tried in ages. Their 529/Curvy jeans are higher-waisted and a biotch to find in lengths (actually, I'm not sure they even come in lengths), so I end up having to have them altered and they just aren't as flattering on me), plus I fall between a 6 and 8 in those.

The Curve ID jeans definitely do often run small...I would normally take a 29, but bought a 30 based upon reviews here and on the Levi's site. The 30x30s are a dream. I just hope they don't shrink at all in length. I think a 29" inseam would be too short, but I am certain that the 32s would be too long (my other jeans with 32" inseam all hang an inch or more under my heels when barefoot).

[GLC1968]

Awesome, Kirsten!
But if you think those are low waisted, don't buy the bootcut! They are even lower (I'm wearing mine today, actually) and therefore gap even more. :rolleyes:

I know the 529's *did* come in lengths at one point but I think they discontinued that feature. The first time I went searching for them, I only found the one or two random short lengths (and they were either 2's or 14's). I've never found any mid-sizes in the short, so I think they just stopped making them for some reason.

Oh, and my bold curve jeans have not shrunk in length at all and I have put them in the dryer. Both pairs have been washed two or three times now and both are still long enough. :D

What I like best about them (besides the fact that they fit)? They don't stretch out much! I can wear them two or three times between washings and they still look pretty good. They don't look like baggy, old lady pants on me like my 529's always did. One wearing of those and they always looked terrible!

[zoom-zoom]

Awesome, Kirsten!
But if you think those are low waisted, don't buy the bootcut! They are even lower (I'm wearing mine today, actually) and therefore gap even more. :rolleyes:

I know the 529's *did* come in lengths at one point but I think they discontinued that feature. The first time I went searching for them, I only found the one or two random short lengths (and they were either 2's or 14's). I've never found any mid-sizes in the short, so I think they just stopped making them for some reason.

Oh, and my bold curve jeans have not shrunk in length at all and I have put them in the dryer. Both pairs have been washed two or three times now and both are still long enough. :D

What I like best about them (besides the fact that they fit)? They don't stretch out much! I can wear them two or three times between washings and they still look pretty good. They don't look like baggy, old lady pants on me like my 529's always did. One wearing of those and they always looked terrible!

Oh, good good news! Do you wash them in warm or cold?

Thanks for the heads-up on the bootcuts. I probably won't buy them, anyhow. I was nervous that the strait-legs would be too snug through my freaky big calves, but they are great. I'm even tempted to get a pair in black for dress...or maybe even try the skinny ones (though I don't think those would be very flattering on my stubby legs, so I probably won't). Neither is available in my size right now.

[GLC1968]

Cold wash and you may already know this, but to keep them dark for as long as possible, wash and dry them inside out. Doing this will also keep black jeans from developing those ugly light streaks (the things I learned in all my years in retail! ;)).

[zoom-zoom]

Ooh, the inside-out thing I didn't know. But it makes sense. Thanks!

[Susan]

A little rant...
Encouraged by your positive words about the Levis Bold Curve I went to the nearest store to try them on... I found about 10 different pairs of Levis sized 24/34 (waist/length), but not a single pair of 31 (waist). Yes, I know, 31 isn't exactly slim, but is it really THAT big that I am not able to find a single pair of jeans -.- ? Are there really more women fitting into 24/34 jeans and if so, is it realistic that they need jeans named "bold curve"?
:mad:

[redrhodie]

Yes, I know, 31 isn't exactly slim, but is it really THAT big that I am not able to find a single pair of jeans -.- ? Are there really more women fitting into 24/34 jeans and if so, is it realistic that they need jeans named "bold curve"?
:mad:

I'm guessing it's quite the opposite, that 31 is the more popular size, which they've sold out of.

[zoom-zoom]

A little rant...
Encouraged by your positive words about the Levis Bold Curve I went to the nearest store to try them on... I found about 10 different pairs of Levis sized 24/34 (waist/length), but not a single pair of 31 (waist). Yes, I know, 31 isn't exactly slim, but is it really THAT big that I am not able to find a single pair of jeans -.- ? Are there really more women fitting into 24/34 jeans and if so, is it realistic that they need jeans named "bold curve"?
:mad:

I don't think the Curve ID jeans are in stores, either...I only see them at Levis.com and maybe one other retailer. The Curvy jeans are all over, though, just not in waist sizes.

Yeah, it doesn't surprise me that the 31s are sold out. I want another pair of the Bold Curve jeans in black, but the 30s are gone, at least in the shorter inseam. I may suck it up and go for the 32 lengths.

[Susan]

Guess I'm just a little mad because I was hoping that after losing quite a bit of weight it would be easier to find a pair of fitting Jeans :o

This store was offering some curve id Levis however just not the right sizes. I tried on a "Demi curve" in 29 but as expected it doesn't fit right (waist seemed huge, rest supertight... it was a "skinny"-fit too, omg those calves :p). I have to have a look if I can order directly from Levis.com in Europe.

[zoom-zoom]

Guess I'm just a little mad because I was hoping that after losing quite a bit of weight it would be easier to find a pair of fitting Jeans :o

Nah...only guys get to do that! My hubby walks into a store, grabs his size off the shelf, pays, comes home, puts them on...fit perfectly. I go into a store, wrestle myself into no less than 6 pair in different styles and sizes and MAYBE 1 pair will sorta-kinda fit. Men suck. :p

[Susan]

My husband does the same with jeans and shirts. He never tries anything on in the shop and still everything seems to fit. Just unfair! ;)

I just found out that ordering a pair of Levis in the USA + taxes + shipping is still way cheaper than buying them at the nearest store, so I think I'll give it a try. This way the size won't be a problem :)


Btw: while shopping for a pair of jeans I found really nice boots two weeks ago. Boots + skirt and/or leggings look really nice and fit over all my "incredible hulk" parts ;)

[lph]

Nah...only guys get to do that! My hubby walks into a store, grabs his size off the shelf, pays, comes home, puts them on...fit perfectly. I go into a store, wrestle myself into no less than 6 pair in different styles and sizes and MAYBE 1 pair will sorta-kinda fit. Men suck. :p

That's because guys get away with wearing stuff that fits quite loosely, cause it's considered "manly". Lucky sods. We wear the same stuff it looks "frumpy" and "boxy". We have to choose from a zillion styles designed to flatter and enhance some point or another. Unless you wear kaftans, even loose fit clothes aren't truly loose fit all over, they're still expected to hang at a cute and oh so flattering angle somewhere.

[Crankin]

Well, my DH, who is shorter (5' 7"), and thin (not skinny) has had a terrible time buying clothes recently. Button down shirts. Forget it, unless they are trim fit and even then, they are too long. He's gone from a medium, to a small in almost everything. Pants at least come in lengths, but he's had more trouble buying ones that fit.

[zoom-zoom]

That's because guys get away with wearing stuff that fits quite loosely, cause it's considered "manly". Lucky sods. We wear the same stuff it looks "frumpy" and "boxy". We have to choose from a zillion styles designed to flatter and enhance some point or another. Unless you wear kaftans, even loose fit clothes aren't truly loose fit all over, they're still expected to hang at a cute and oh so flattering angle somewhere.

That...and we have boobs of varying sizes. I have a small ribcage, waist, and shoulders and big boobs, so stuff that fits everywhere else will look wrong up-front. Buttons strain or I look trampy. Going up a size hangs weird, though. Clothes shopping is a lose-lose deal much of the time.

[GLC1968]

While my husband can by pants off the rack and have them look great, he can't do it with shirts. He's got a huge neck, broad shoulders, long ape arms and a narrow waist. He agonizes over shirts like I agonize over bottoms. At least he understands my pain. ;)

[zoom-zoom]

While my husband can by pants off the rack and have them look great, he can't do it with shirts. He's got a huge neck, broad shoulders, long ape arms and a narrow waist. He agonizes over shirts like I agonize over bottoms. At least he understands my pain. ;)

Mine is a 2XL Tall...though a lot of 2XL stuff will work for him, too. He's just a barrell-chested, broad-shouldered beast of a Yeti...

[jessmarimba]

My poor little brother is built just like me. And unfortunately for him, there's no such thing as a Small Tall. Or 29x34 pants. We just learn what brands to ignore and jump on a good deal on the few that fit.

I'm fortunate that I haven't tried to go jeans shopping in about 3 years and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the two favorite pair will last for another couple. I've given up on buying khakis that look right.

[Eden]

My poor little brother is built just like me. And unfortunately for him, there's no such thing as a Small Tall. Or 29x34 pants. We just learn what brands to ignore and jump on a good deal on the few that fit.

I'm fortunate that I haven't tried to go jeans shopping in about 3 years and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the two favorite pair will last for another couple. I've given up on buying khakis that look right.

My hubby is in the same boat these days - he has to look for 32x34 - he swears that mens sizes are suffering from creep too - only a few years ago a 34x34 was fine for him and nowadays they are so loose they'd fall down....

[Selkie]

A little rant...
Encouraged by your positive words about the Levis Bold Curve I went to the nearest store to try them on... I found about 10 different pairs of Levis sized 24/34 (waist/length), but not a single pair of 31 (waist). Yes, I know, 31 isn't exactly slim, but is it really THAT big that I am not able to find a single pair of jeans -.- ? Are there really more women fitting into 24/34 jeans and if so, is it realistic that they need jeans named "bold curve"?
:mad:

I can't find 24" waist jeans to save my life. Send them my way, please. I'm sick of having to wear belts (I hate belts)

[Susan]

Maybe you and all of you that need "small tall" sizes should come over here and visit me.
Nowadays, everything under a 34'' length is hard to find. And shops that consider themselves "cool" don't sell Jeans over 28'' waist for women. In the shop I was ranting about there where 3 big signs in the womens section: 24'', 26'', 28''. If you look hard you may find some pairs of 30''. Everyone above that size has to shop the mans section (no, of course I am wearing those "boyfriend" jeans just for style, not because I had to shop the mens section. I like the look of my a.. hanging out the much to big waist while my thighs get stuck...). :rolleyes:

Zoom-zoom, you sound a lot like me... I always thought I am the only one with this strange combination of features... Shoulders, big breast, 30'' inseam and those calves... ;)

[Eden]

A 34" inseam for women..... seriously.... my 6'4" husband wears a 34" inseam.....

no wonder I have to buy kids jeans (size 12 fits me pretty darn good in certain brands)

Selkie - if you are short too, kids 12's often have a 24" waist a good length inseam, are cheaper and are generally in stock..... the only problem is finding models that aren't super girly - no rhinestones or embroidered butterflies please. My current favorite are Levis slim and straight.

[zoom-zoom]

Zoom-zoom, you sound a lot like me... I always thought I am the only one with this strange combination of features... Shoulders, big breast, 30'' inseam and those calves... ;)

I always wish I could rearrange myself a bit. Or at least stretch myself out a couple of inches.

[Selkie]

A 34" inseam for women..... seriously.... my 6'4" husband wears a 34" inseam.....

no wonder I have to buy kids jeans (size 12 fits me pretty darn good in certain brands)

Selkie - if you are short too, kids 12's often have a 24" waist a good length inseam, are cheaper and are generally in stock..... the only problem is finding models that aren't super girly - no rhinestones or embroidered butterflies please. My current favorite are Levis slim and straight.

Thanks for the tip! I was looking at Juniors' jeans but they are way to hootchie mama for a 47 year old.

[Eden]

Thanks for the tip! I was looking at Juniors' jeans but they are way to hootchie mama for a 47 year old.

Tell me about it... I'm 39, not 15.... I have a no butt crack rule. If I can't tie my shoes without showing butt crack or undies the jeans are a no go.... I think kids clothes are cut a bit more conservatively than juniors.

[Becky]

A 34" inseam for women..... seriously.... my 6'4" husband wears a 34" inseam....

I was so excited to find 34" jeans in a size 4 yesterday...though I was a bit shocked that they were labeled "regular inseam". Makes ya wonder what "long" is! :eek: I need a 32" inseam to wear them with flats, and an inch or two more for heels. Add in the inevitable shrinkage, and buying jeans is usually a disaster.

[jessmarimba]

I was so excited to find 34" jeans in a size 4 yesterday...though I was a bit shocked that they were labeled "regular inseam". Makes ya wonder what "long" is! :eek: I need a 32" inseam to wear them with flats, and an inch or two more for heels. Add in the inevitable shrinkage, and buying jeans is usually a disaster.

What brand was this?? Not that I need any more pants :)

[Becky]

What brand was this?? Not that I need any more pants :)

Gap Long and Lean jeans. Although all of their jeans seemed extra-long, these were the only ones that accommodated my bad-@ss cyclist thighs. The rest of the styles cut off circulation below my knees! Their sizing in the waist seemed a little funky, and I actually went up a size to ensure that I could still button them after Thanksgiving ;) They fit great everywhere else.

[OakLeaf]

I don't buy super low rise jeans at my age, but a moderately low rise ("scout rise" by Athleta's system) has done wonders to make me keep my transversus and pelvic floor engaged. :p

Not that anything is *really* super low on me, given that old-style jeans cover my bottom two ribs. :rolleyes: I seriously have no waist... In slacks, I have to buy petites so the rise is anything reasonable, then mostly the legs are too short.

[Crankin]

Eh, petite pants are now 30", except for Athleta, where they are still 28.5 or 29, which is what I need. Let alone the problem of calves and thighs. I recently spent $ to get a pair of cords hemmed :mad:. I don't mind getting wool pants or other dress pants tailored, but, isn't this why petite sizes were invented? I just can't wear my pants dragging on the ground. I could wear regular sized pants, if it wasn't for the length, as I don't have a short waist. I'm just short.
Eden, I have thought of looking in the kids department for jeans, but my waist isn't quite that small, more like 26.

[malkin]

Thanks for the tip! I was looking at Juniors' jeans but they are way to hootchie mama for a 47 year old.

A few years ago, my step-mum bought juniors jeans for my dad, because she was tired of looking at the saggy backside of normal jeans on him.
My 70 year old dad with swirly pocket embroidery and rhinestone accents was quite a sight, but at least he could keep those pants up!

[Susan]

Finally I found myself a 31'' waist Bold Curve - looks great and makes me very very happy :D

[zoom-zoom]

I think I have found the jeans that fit me best. I like the Levi's Bold Curve straight leg jeans that I bought, but they are about an inch lower rise than I really feel comfortable wearing...when I sit down I think I'm getting dangerously close to showing off my crack. :o They're spendy for jeans that I really like, but don't LOVE.

I snagged a pair of 528 (junior's version of the 529) and they are perfect! The rise on the 529 comes up a hair too high on me and I fall between sizes, so the larger size ends up with bunchy fabric at the small of my back. I don't have this issue with the 528s. They fit like they were designed for me and the rise is about halfway between that of the Curve ID jeans and the 529s.