It wasn’t much more than a century ago that Levi Strauss started a little business supplying blue jeans to gold miner at wholesale prices. Those gold miners needed clothes that would endure rugged terrain and rough treatment. Today, blue jeans have earned their place as the most popular and versatile garment, maintaining that same strength yet winning the gold in comfort and appeal.

Plus-sized people agree that shopping can be extremely difficult. Finding a stylish yet comfortable pair of jeans is a rarity. The majority of jeans either hug your legs too tightly or cut into the waist or stomach. Locating the right pair of jeans for your body type can add the illusion of longer legs and smaller hips.

The first thing to look for in plus size jeans is “stretch”. Many plus size jeans are now made from a stretch material, which means the fabric will give a little. Made of a cotton/poly/spandex blend, the fabric floats on your body and stretches only when and where you need it to. Stretch jeans provide the ultimate in comfort and give great shape to your body. The longer you wear stretch jeans, the more they will stretch out, which can help you feel more comfortable throughout the day.

You need to also look for “mid-rise” qualities in plus size jeans. Most jeans sold today are “low-rise” jeans, which are fine if you have no curves; however, if you do have them, low-rise jeans don’t compensate for larger waists or hips and thus can look very bad. They emphasize the midriff, pushing excess fat over the waist band, and are also very painful to wear for long periods of time.

A stylish way to stay comfortable is to choose classic cut jeans, also called mid-rise jeans. Classic cut jeans sit just under the wearer’s waistline and the straight leg continues from the hip all the way to the tip of the jeans. This adds a long, lean look to the plus size woman.

Extra features such as excessive embroidery, stitching, fading or a multitude of pockets should be avoided when buying plus-sized jeans. Instead, opt for solid-colored dark jeans that can be coordinated with tee shirts, dress shirts or sweaters.

Individuals who are plus size, need a wider pant leg to balance out their body. Choose a classic five-pocket design in a dark shade.

Jeans can be worn for everyday, or for a night on the town. They go with a variety of shoe-types. They come in a plethora of colors and fabrics. Plus sized people have so many varieties to choose from.

Look for the stretch fabric and rise quality when you are shopping for plus size clothing and jeans. When you do find the perfect pair of plus size jeans, it’s always worth it to invest in a second pair. The perfect pair of plus size jeans can help you look and feel great!