Jeans are an essential in most people’s wardrobes. From barrel to mom, there are endless styles, but what is the sweet spot for a timeless collection?
M&S surveyed 2,000 people, revealing the nations habits towards purchasing and owning jeans, revealing at least one pair is forgotten. Francesca Zedda, head of creative styling at M&S, has built the ultimate jean formula, revealing the best styles to have in your wardrobe and which ones will get you the most outfit combinations.
How many pairs of jeans do Britons own?
Most Britons, on average own three pairs of jeans (17%) but Gen Zs aged 18–28 commonly have four pairs in their wardrobe (19%), whilst Millennials aged 29–44 revealed they’re most likely to own five (12.5%) to six pairs (8%) – which is closest to Francesca’s recommendation.
“The ideal magic number of jeans you should own is 5! While that may seem high, it covers all basis and allows you to have enough styles to take you from casual to formal (yes these days a dark jean with a heel and a blazer could be formal). Investing in the right jeans takes time and you should be mindful of the styles you feel comfortable in.” Francesca shares
The one in, one out rule
Whilst having options has it benefits – a substantial portion of the UK admitted they have jeans they haven’t worn in the last 12 months.
Gen Zs (26%) admitted they haven’t worn two pairs out of their collections in the last year – revealing it might be time for a switch up. Whereas 34% of Baby Boomers aged 61–79 get the most out of their wardrobe with only one pair getting forgotten about.
“Following a one in, one out rule is the key to embracing new outfits and enjoying new styles. If you have invested in a palazzo and the fashion changes to a straight, you can resell or store them for the next season. Trends are circular – they will come back.” Francesca advises
The magic jean formula
With majority of respondents (23%) revealing they purchased a new pair of jeans in the last 2 – 5 months, it’s important to understand which styles are key so that over-purchasing stays to a minimum.
“Investing in good quality pieces allow for better longevity and durability. When shopping, keep an eye out for thicker materials and durable stitching as these will contribute to better strength, allowing you to wear the same pair regularly and not need to buy jeans as often.” Francesca advises
The M&S jean formula: 5 pairs for a complete collection that will last you a lifetime
Since comfort (45%), fit (40%) and price (39%) were discovered as the most important factors to finding the right jeans for UK adults, Francessca has provided her top jean contenders for building the ultimate jean collection.
- Straight leg
- The shape of the season, can be bought in a mid and dark wash, working for different occasions. The dark wash is smarter, worn with a heel and a blazer will take you to the boardroom.
| M&S | M&S |
- Wide or palazzo leg
- Offering a sophisticated and put together look, a wide leg can balance out your silhouette as they are a very flattering jean style. Style them with all kind of tops – from a thin fitted knit to a pretty top, to a vest for summer. They will give you a range of outfits out of one pair of jeans.
| M&SLyocell™ Blend Wide Palazzo Leg Jeans | M&S |
- A barrel or horseshoe style
- Adding something fun to your wardrobe, this shape is perfect for a more playful and on trend outfit, and creates a statement look.
| Per Una | M&S |
- A cream or white shade
- It’s important to not be restricted to blue shades in your jean collection, when spring arrives having a lighter denim in your wardrobe will switch up your style immediately. Super versatile, a white denim is always on trend
| M&S | M&S |
- Tailored jeans
- For those times you want to dress up your denim look but want to keep it more casual than a trouser.
| M&S | M&S |
“If you are restricted on space, or want to keep your jean collection minimal, the three styles that are key to have in your wardrobe is the straight leg in a dark wash, a wide leg, and a fun style like the barrel or horseshoe jean in a mid wash. This combination gives you a smart look, a style that goes with everything, and a fun, playful option.” Francesca shares.
Find all women’s and men’s jeans here.
