Ever since designer jeans hit their stride nearly 10 years ago, I haven’t paid much attention to non-designer denim. Once you’ve worn expensive jeans, it’s hard to revert to a less costly version because cheaper jeans usually means cheaper quality.
Until Gap’s 1969 denim collection.
Back in the stifling late August heat, I dragged MR up to Gap when the 1969 jeans were released. Six months later, we don’t know where where our weekend wardrobes would be without them. I bought the Always Skinny version (pictured above), and they’ve become my #1 skinnies. The fit is flawless, and the denim isn’t too thin or too thick. Unlike other skinnies, the Always Skinny doesn’t require constant readjusting, and the rise isn’t so low that I feel uncomfortable. Simply put, these skinny jeans just feel good when you’re wearing them. Plus, because they have a slightly wider leg opening than most skinny jeans, they’re perfect for cuffing. Did I mention they do great things for your butt? The list goes on.
MR isn’t a fan of skinnies, so she walked away with the Perfect Boot, pictured below.
Attention shorties: MR is 5′2″ and picked up these in the ankle length version. Unbelievably, she didn’t need to get the jeans hemmed, and she wears them with FLATS. Insane.
We know most people haven’t worn Gap jeans since 1995, but they’re really worth a shot. The brand seems poised for a comeback; ever since designer Patrick Robinson took over as creative director, Gap is becoming cool again.
The best part about the 1969 jeans? They cost about $100 less than designer jeans. Don’t say HCG never got you a deal.
Always skinny jeans (saturated dark wash), $69.50 at Gap
Perfect boot jeans (dark wash), $69.50 at Gap
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi HCG! I was introduced to your blog by our mutual friend Caitlin, and I felt compelled to tell you that I 100% agree with this post on the Gap 1969 denim line. I never thought I could pull off skinnies until I tried a pair of these on, but they are completely comfy and flattering. Also, it didn’t hurt that when I wore them, the guy I was dating couldn’t stop telling me that they were his favorite article of clothing ever. Anyways, great post and I love your blog! :)
I agree! I tried the Gap Always Skinny jeans out as a sort of tester to work my way into the skinny jeans thing. LOVE them and will not even look for a designer pair. I was on the fence but the Always Skinny jeans have won me over. It also helps that they are much more flattering than other skinny jeans styles I’ve tried on before. Definitely worth checking out!
Hey HGC,
Saw this one Twitter and was wondering if you had an opinion. Know anyone’s who’s built their own jeans on Indi Denim? http://www.indidenim.com
I’m wondering if it’s worth it.
Rebes: Welcome to HCG! Caitlin is one the biggest promoters of this site, and I think I’ll have to start paying her once we start rolling in cash. Thanks for your feedback on the 1969 skinnies – it’s great to hear that other people love them as much as I do. Gap just released a “slouchy skinny” version I’m dying to try on. Hope to hear from you again!
Olivia: First Rossi’s, now the Always Skinny! You and I are definitely on the same page lately. HCG readers should note that Olivia, like many of us, loves high end goods. It speaks volumes that she prefers the Gap skinnies over designer versions. They’re that amazing!
Diana: I’ve never heard of Indi Denim, but the prospect of custom jeans (custom anything, really) is always enticing. If they aren’t too costly, I would give it a shot, especially if you struggle with finding jeans that fit well. Let us know how it goes if you do it!