Jeans: they’re the wardrobe classic you can’t live without.
From hight waist to boot cut and ever-so-skinny, denim jeans are the perfect one-and-done outfit choice for when you’re stumped as what to wear.
Simply pair back with a crisp white collared-shirt and a classic black blazer and you’re done.
That is until the jeans get too tight for comfort.
If you’re anything like us, once you find a good pair that fit perfectly, you hang on to them like your life depends on it.
However if you find a pair that kind of fit (but are about 73 washes away from perfect), or are the perfect style but are just a wee too tight, then don’t throw them out just yet.
We all know the feeling of putting on a pair of denim jeans that just don’t fit the way they used to, but instead of donating them or ramping up your cardio regime, read on below for our nifty hacks to get them working with you and not against you.
You can thank us later.
1. Wet jeans and pull the fabric
Wet or wash (ideally using fabric softener to make them soft) the jeans and literally pull at the fabric – concentrating on the spots that need stretching the most.
2. Wet jeans and then put them on
Ok so this one isn’t going to feel the best, but the denim fibers are easier to stretch when wet and by putting them on, they will stretch in the exact spots you need it most.
3. Get in the bath with them on
Ok, if you didn’t like the last one, you’re probably not going to like this one either, but pop the jeans on and get into the bath with them, sit there and soak for around 10-15 minutes and then get out and move around as much as you can. Ideally you should then let them dry on you for at least 30 minutes.
4. Apply heat and then get put jeans straight on
If putting jeans on wet doesn’t interest you, then dry them using heat (but not a clothes dryer as that might make them smaller!). Try using a hair dryer or iron, heat them up, put them on and get moving.
5. Do squats in your jeans
Kill two birds with one stone by doing some squats in your jeans. The movement alone will help stretch the fabric – and there’s your workout for the day. Winning.
One you’ve gotten your jeans to that perfect spot, try and wash them as little as possible or even pop them in the freezer overnight, which will help freshen them up. And make sure you never put them in the clothes dryer!