Jeans are an essential part of clothing in any wardrobe. They have become a universal favorite due to their unique fabric and style. But when you enter a shop to buy jeans, you see jeans are divided into men’s and women’s sections. Have you ever wondered what is the reason for this? Actually, there are many differences between men’s and women’s jeans.
Knowing the difference is crucial whether you are buying jeans for personal use or launching a brand. It will help you choose the perfect fit and keep you comfortable. So, are you curious about how men’s and women’s jeans differ? This guide will answer all your queries. Let’s dig in!
Women’s Jeans vs. Men’s Jeans: Key Differences
You are wrong if you think men’s and women’s jeans are the same! From fabric to style, lots of things set them apart. So, before you grab your next pair of jeans, let’s dive in and explore their key differences.
1- Basic Design Differences
At first glance, men’s and women’s jeans look alike. However, if we look at their basic design, they differ in many ways. For example, men’s jeans are straight due to fewer curves in men’s bodies. Moreover, the waist and hip sizes are also the same in men’s jeans. Lastly, men’s jeans come only in mid-rise or high-rise.
On the flip side, women’s bodies have definite curves, so their jeans are designed to have a curved shape. Moreover, women’s jeans have curved cuts due to differences in waist and hip size. Regarding the rise( where jeans sit on the waist), women’s jeans come in mid, low, and high rises.
2- Size and Fit
Due to differences in body shape, men’s and women’s jeans also differ in size and fit. If we talk about men’s jeans, they come in definite sizes and measurements. The size of men’s jeans indicates the length of the legs and the width of the waist. For example, if a pair of jeans marks a size as 28×32, it denotes that the waist is 28 inches wide and the legs are 32 inches long.
In simple words, men can choose the exact size of their jeans. But in the case of fit, men’s jeans have the same fitness from waist to hips. On the other hand, women’s jeans do not have definite sizes for leg length and waist width. They usually come in five sizes: XS, S, M, L, and XL. However, fitness in women’s jeans is definite. These jeans have a small waist and wide hips.
3- Style Variations
Due to different sizes and fits, men’s and women’s jeans also vary in style. For instance, Men’s jeans are simple with basic stitching and colors like blue, grey, and black. However, women’s jeans come in various colors and decorative elements. Their jeans include embroidery on the pockets with bold patterns. Let’s discuss the common styles of men’s jeans:
- Straight-leg: Jeans that have the same width from thighs to ankle.
- Bootcut: These jeans are wider from ankle to bottom. Designed to cover boots.
- Slim-fit: Tighter jeans than other typical jeans.
- Baggy: Looser and classic for daily use.
The common styles of women’s jeans include:
- Skinny jeans: These jeans have tight fitness from top to bottom.
- High-waisted jeans: Such jeans sit above the waist area. They make the legs look longer.
- Flared jeans: Flared jeans are 70s-style jeans that are wider at the bottom.
- Mom jeans: They are loose, relaxed, and have a high waist.
4- Pocket Design
Pocket design is another factor that sets men’s and women’s jeans apart. The pockets of men’s jeans are deep and spacious. WHY? Because men need this design to hold their accessories such as phones, keys, and wallets. Moreover, the pockets in men’s jeans are positioned lower. Lastly, some men’s jeans have extra pockets, known as “coin pockets.”
These are specifically for keeping small items such as coins or watches. On the reverse side, pockets in women’s jeans are very small and placed higher. These pockets can hardly hold keys or phones. These small pockets balance the design as women’s jeans are skinny. Additionally, some designers create fake pockets for decoration purposes.
5- Material and Fabric Stretch
Many people think that all jeans use the same fabric. But this is a misconception. There is a huge difference between men’s and women’s jeans regarding material. For instance, manufacturers prefer thick, rigid denim with 100% cotton for men’s jeans. This fabric makes the jeans less stretchable and more durable. This is why men’s jeans feel rough and rigid and last long.
On the flip side, women’s jeans are made with softer denim. As you know, most women’s jeans are skinny, so they need to be flexible. You can compare women’s jeans with leggings as both can adapt to different body curves. So, manufacturers use elastane and polyester to ensure stretchiness and comfort. However, unlike men’s jeans, the soft fabric of women’s jeans may not last long.
6- Belt Loops Differences
Belt loops in jeans are small round strips that hold the belts. Both women’s and men’s jeans differ in belt loops. If we debate belt loops in men’s jeans, they are larger and stronger. The reason is that men wear thick and rigid belts. Moreover, the number of these loops is also higher. Mostly, men’s jeans contain 5 to 7 loops.
Conversely, belt loops are narrow and close in the women’s jeans. Women mostly use small and soft belts, so these loops are designed for decoration and style. Moreover, the number of belt loops is about five or less than 5. Simply put, belt loops in women’s jeans ensure aesthetics and style rather than functionality.
7- Zipper and Button Placement
Zipper and button placement are other factors that differentiate men’s and women’s jeans. In men’s jeans, the button is on the right side. However, the buttonhole is on the left side. The reason behind this placement is old tradition. In earlier days, men used to fasten their clothes by themselves.
So, this button placement proves helpful for them. Moreover, the zipper in men’s jeans is longer and straight in the center. Most designs of men’s jeans feature button-fly options. In this design, jeans feature a row of buttons rather than zippers. Now, if we discuss women’s jeans, a button is on the left side, and a buttonhole is on the right.
This placement is also due to old tradition, as women used to fasten their clothing by maids. Although this is an old tradition, modern jeans still follow it. Additionally, women’s jeans contain short zippers due to their lower rise. Some jeans may have curved zippers due to their high waist. Lastly, women’s jeans always feature a zipper fly: a zipper with one top button.
8- Price Differences
Jeans are jeans, so they should have the same prices. But the fact will surprise you. Basically, women’s jeans are more costly than men’s jeans. WHY? The first reason is fabric. As I said above, women’s jeans are made of delicate and soft cloth with a blend of costly polyester. Moreover, the details, such as embroidery and style, justify the higher price.
The other reason behind higher prices is strong marketing and higher demand. Women tend to buy more jeans according to varying styles, increasing market demand. Conversely, men’s jeans are less costly due to the use of cotton fabric. This material is readily available and low in cost. Moreover, simple designs and less tailoring also lower prices.
Can Men and Women Wear Each Other’s Jeans?
YES! Men and women can wear each other’s jeans. Fashion has no rules, so wear opposite-gender jeans if you feel comfortable. But you should know what happens when you wear jeans of another gender. If a woman wears a man’s jeans, it will be loose from the hips and the waist. The reason is that men’s jeans do not have curves.
Moreover, men’s jeans are larger and may need trimming. But as I said above, they are available in different lengths so that you can choose the exact size. The large and deep pockets are a plus point for women wearing men’s jeans. They can easily store their accessories in those pockets. As a woman, if you prefer a baggy look, men’s jeans are the best suit.
Now, if a man wears women’s jeans, they feel tighter from the thighs and hips. So, if you are looking for skinny looks, women’s jeans are suitable. Moreover, the length of women’s jeans is also shorter. For a heightened man, it feels over short. Lastly, the stretch fabric of women’s jeans is often comfortable for skinny men for a modern and fit style.
How to Choose the Right Jeans for Your Body Type?
Jeans are for everyone, but not every pair of jeans is for you! A perfect pair of jeans elevates your personality and makes you comfortable. In the section below, I will discuss some considerations to help you choose the right jeans for your body type. Let’s jump right in!
- First, understand your body shape. Women’s body shapes primarily include an Hourglass, pear, and apple shape. So skinny, flared, and bootcut jeans are best suited for Hourglass shape. While straight-leg jeans are suited to pear shapes, and mid-rise jeans are suitable for apple shapes.
- Men’s body shapes include athletic, slim, rectangular, and stock. Men with athletic body shapes should choose athletic-fit jeans to provide leg room. Skinny jeans fit a slim body shape, while tapered jeans are best for a rectangular shape. Lastly, relaxed-fit jeans are the most suitable choice for men with a stocky body shape.
- The second factor to consider is the rise of the jeans. If you have a lean body, low-rise jeans are best. However, mid-rise jeans suit all body types. Lastly, high-rise jeans are perfect if you have definite body curves.
- You should also consider the stretch and non-stretch factor of the jeans. Mostly flexible and stretched jeans suit women. However, non-stretched and rigid jeans are a good choice for men.
- Lastly, make a wise decision about the length of the jeans. For example, ankle-length jeans give trendy looks. However, full-length jeans are best for a traditional look. Moreover, cropped jeans will suit you if you want to show off your shoes.
Frequently Asked Question
How can you tell if jeans are men’s or women’s?
Several factors tell if jeans are men’s or women’s. For instance, if jeans are flexible and stretched, they are women’s jeans, but if jeans are rigid and inflexible, they are men’s. Moreover, you can also recognize it by pockets. Women’s jeans have small and shallow pockets, while men’s have deep and large pockets.
How can you tell if a zipper is male or female?
The position of the zipper in jeans can tell if they are men’s or women’s. For example, if the zipper or a button is placed on the right side, it is a male’s jeans. On the flip side, if the zipper is positioned on the left side, it indicates a female’s jeans.
Can I wear women’s jeans as a man?
Yes, you can wear women’s jeans as a man if you have a skinny body shape. However, women’s jeans are primarily tight and contain definite curves, so they may feel tight on your hips and thighs. Their flexibility can eliminate this issue.
Schlussfolgerung
In appearance, men’s and women’s jeans look alike. However, they differ from each other in many ways. This article discusses the key differences between women’s and men’s jeans. For example, men’s jeans are made of rigid materials such as cotton. These jeans have straight cuts and ample legroom. However, the prices of men’s jeans are lower.
Conversely, women’s jeans are made with cotton and a polyester blend. Polyester provides flexibility and stretch, which is absent in jeans. Moreover, women’s jeans are often skinny with less leg room. Lastly, these jeans are expensive due to their delicate style and designs. Know your body type and choose the perfect pair of jeans according to it!