From The Straits Times    |

Skinny jeans have reigned supreme for a number of years now, but it is always good to have other options.

A pair of flared jeans is a nice change and great for days when you want a little less restricted movement.

When it comes to flared jeans, a clean dark wash like this pair from Gap (photo 1, $80, from 03-65 Plaza Singapura) is always a safe option, though lighter and more distressed options are fun and give off a different vibe.

What is more important to consider is the length and rise. The hem of the jeans should not be too short or too long – both sure-fire ways to make your legs look short or stumpy.

Take it to a tailor to get hemmed, and take along the pair of shoes you are likely to wear with it so the hem length sits just right.

Low-heeled ankle boots such as these from Bershka (photo 2, $79.90, from B2-09 Ion Orchard) are a great footwear choice, as are pointy-toed heels or flats. Platform heels may look a bit too 1970s, unless you are deliberately going for a hippy look.

The rise of the flare jeans should be regular or slightly high-waisted to emphasise the long, lean line. Anything too low runs the risk of looking dated, bringing up images of the low-slung hip huggers of the early 2000s.

For your top, pick something slightly cropped for balance, such as this cosy knit sweater from H&M (photo 3, $39.90, from Orchard Building, 1 Grange Road).

Or you can pick a blousy top like this printed Zara number (photo 4, $79.90, from B2-03 Ion Orchard) and tuck it in so the waist can still be seen.

For a look that is more smart casual, pair your flared jeans with a black blazer such as this one from A.L.C. (photo 5, £209 or S$433, from www.theoutnet.com). Even over a simple T-shirt, the blazer adds a nice bit of polish and elevates the whole look.

This article was first run in The Straits Times newspaper on October 10, 2014. For similar stories, go to sph.straitstimes.com/premium/singapore. You will not be able to access the Premium section of The Straits Times website unless you are already a subscriber.