While fashion pundits herald the return of the wide-legged trouser and jean for spring 2011, the ladies of New York City continue to cut a sleek swath on city streets with body conscious apparel. Skinny jeans, leggings, jeggings, and tights are more popular than ever, even in frigid weather. Layered with knee-high socks and heeled boots, the look is one that defies weather and trends.
Skinny jeans are jeans that are cut to mold to the body's curves. An old invention under a new name, skinny jeans are actually a retread from the late 70's and 80's, when the designer jean became popular. Jordache, Calvin Klein, and Gloria Vanderbilt were the big names on the scene, offering jeans with a more tailored cut. Strongly associated with disco, the tighter cuts went to the back of the closet when grunge and hip-hop music influenced denim wearers to go baggy and loose. The boot cut became popular in the early 2000's, with everyone wearing the small on top/flared at the bottom style. Tight jeans came back with a vengeance in 2005, and new brands became the standard dearers for denim. Instead of getting a few pair at the GAP, you now had Cheap Mondays, Superfine, Diesel, and Hudson to choose from. From Williamsburg to the UES, the skinny is still very much the jean of choice.
Jeggings are a lighter weight form of skinnies. Within the past year jeggings went from being a bit of a joke to taking the streets by storm. They're a little cheaper than a full-fledged pair of designer jeans, but still give consumers a way to splurge on a brand they like. Dark washes and treated surfaces abound. Look for finished pairs with pockets, andcombine with loose cashmere sweaters, newsboy caps, and flat boots for a down to earth, femiminine style. A long boyfriend cardigan over a button down shirt with a thin belt wrapped at the waist works, too. The best are by 7 For All Mankind, featuring super light Italian cotton, and Joe's.
Leggings are another fashion trend that died an untimely death at the end of the 80's but has resurfaced in the millenium. Usually made of elasticized cotton blends, leggings are often paired with longer shirts and sweaters in lieu of tights. Getting dressed quickly is key with New York women, and leggings can give them a polished yet casual style in moments. A great look is a fur vest, possibly layered over a tatty denim jacket, slouchy sweater, and high boots with strong, chunky heel. bangles at the wrist, and a fur lined hunter's hat (think Elmer Fudd, but chic) give an artsy city vibe with little effort. H&M makes a great product, the best being the 12.99 basic legging. Also, push the envelope with patterned or colored leggings, not just basic black.
Tights are holding their own with women that prefer skirts to leg covering pants. Styles spied in Times Square recently were lacy tights layered over colored ones, which maximized both warmth and style. When wearing a skirt, tights can give the illusion of a longer leg if you stick to one color. A gauzy skirt, thick colorful cotton tights, and ankle boots are another look spied in Brooklyn. The best thing about tights is that you can binge shop for them and have tons on hand to play with. Macy's at Herald Square offers a great selection with brands like Hue and DKNY populating the shelves. If you have the money, splurge on a pair from Wolford.
While women in New York may eventually embrace the fuller styles featured on runways, right now with snow on the ground and no time to waste, they're sticking to a leaner line.
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