I’ve been on a pretty heavy skinny jean kick for … oh, I’d say about 4-5 years now. By kick, I really mean that I’ve kicked everything else out and that’s all that remains. (No but really, I cleaned out my closet this weekend and it’s true–skinnies or bust).

Last week, that all changed. Whenever I’m feeling creatively dry I sit down and spend a solid 30 minutes or so on Pinterest letting the visual inspiration start to stir that side of my brain. I found a few pins that had my interest peaked, and then one look that sealed the deal–it was time to give flares another try.

I admit that a huge part of my hesitation was around finding a pair that fit perfectly. If you saw our story in People Style Watch, it can be quite a challenge to find a pair of jeans that truly fit you perfectly. When it came to hunting down the right pair of flares for my height, I narrowed down my options based on the following tips:

LOOK FOR A PETITE STYLE

It may sound obvious, but flares are all about proportions. If they don’t hit your knee just right and flare at the right point in your calf they can end up looking like a bad pair of bootcuts. Starting with a pair made for petites means that they took a smaller frame as the base point and will ultimately lead to fewer alterations and a more natural looking fit.

CHECK THE RISE

If you peek down at the product specifications you’ll be able to look a bit closer at the exact measurements of the inseam (length), rise (how high it hits you in the waist) and ankle (ankle width). I always find that comparing the pairs you’re looking at can be extremely valuable when it comes time to make a decision and you can’t try them on. For a guideline, look up a pair of jeans that you already own to get an idea of the measurements that work for you (31″ inseam, 8.5″ rise on my favorite pair of Rag & Bone jeans). This pair caught my eye instantly on the model, so I took a peak at the dimensions: 33.5″ inseam, 9.5″ mid-rise and 22″ ankle. I also noticed this pair and know that Citizens of Humanity have always fit me well. The measurements are: 31″ inseam, 8.5″ mid-rise and 18″ ankle. Knowing my body and that I don’t usually like a high rise fit, I went for the petite version of the Emmanuelle and outside of a small alteration around the knee to be more fitted, they were near perfect.

READ THE REVIEWS

You’ll also uncover key pieces of information from reading about other peoples’ experiences based on their body types. While I wouldn’t take everyone’s word as gold it’s very helpful to see if there are patterns when it comes to fit with certain pairs. I noticed in the review that a girl who was 5’7″ mentioned that the Paige version is pretty long. If they’re long on her even the petite will probably be long on me! The review in the Citizens pair mentioned that they were stretchy (which I love) and true to size or ran a bit small, which was perfect.

Now, I’m hooked. I love the way that they move in a pair of heels and actually make me feel like I’m a lot taller than I am. I’ve already planned out two outfits for this week to wear to work with them and my collection of skinny jeans can move to the side for a bit.. the flares are here to stay.

SHOP THE POST

JEANS: Citizens of Humanity Emmanuelle flare jeans c/o  •  SWEATER: French Connection jumper  •  SHOES: DVF pumps  •  BAG: Henri Bendel bedford drawstring bag c/o  •  EARRINGS: Bauble Bar ear jackets  •  SUNGLASSES: Karen Walker Super Duper sunglasses

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Photos by Lydia Hudgens

This post was sponsored by Anthropologie! Thanks for supporting the brands that keep this little blog going! xo