In my world of denim blogging, the J Brand Lovestory flare has taken on an almost mythic quality. I’ve heard stories, read reviews, seen tweets – all singing the praises of this pair of jeans. Jennine saw them at NYFW here, Caitlin of Style Within Reach names them as her favorite jeans, as does Beth of B Jones Style as well as Midtown Girl.
With a rap sheet like that, I had to see for myself. I ordered a pair in the Heritage wash, which features a fair amount of whiskering and wrinkling near the fly and front pockets. Normally this would turn me off – I usually prefer a sleek, dark rinse on a jean with this dramatic of a flare. However – as is usually the case with J Brand – I was pleasantly surprised by the wash of these jeans. When I put them on with a black top and black shoes, I instantly felt like they could be dressed up.
The Lovestory features regular 5-pocket styling with a single button closure – classic to a tee. The hem is generous, about 2″ I’d say, which gives them a more casual feel. For some reason I associate a thin hem with a dressier pant. The 21″ leg opening creates a distinct, very 1970′s flare. The inseam is 35″ so I wore them with a fairly tall heel, about 4.” Shopbop says they have an 8.5″ rise, but they feel much lower than that to me. Take note though, I feel like I could have sized up to a 28 in these jeans. The 27 is tight in the waist – almost uncomfortably so. However, the denim 72 percent cotton and 28 percent polyester (not Lycra) so I think they will adjust to a more comfortable fit after a bit more wear.
Though this wash isn’t my favorite, I think the J Brand Lovestory lives up to it’s legendary reputation. The denim is sturdy and comfortable, the flare really is just right, and they flatter my hips and legs the way my other most treasured J Brand jeans always have. At $200 these jeans are an investment, but one that’s ultimately worth it – a well-cut flare that makes you feel tall and lean is worth every penny.
[Photos by Crissie Fuller]
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