tips :: Shopping for used jeans

If one was to try to identify my shopping “addictions,” jeans would definitely be near the top of the list. I love a good pair of jeans that fits just right and matches everything! When I was a kid, we’d drive over an hour from my hometown to Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, where I could get the coolest jeans that weren’t even available in the USA (thanks, Mom!).

Years later, when I’d started buying most clothes from consignment stores, I would still argue that buying a good pair of new jeans was worth it. And there is definitely is some validity in that argument. But I couldn’t really make it anymore when I had 10+ jeans in my closest. I didn’t need anymore; new or used.

However, jeans wear out. Holes can be patched of course, but sometimes you do need to retire a pair. Your body changes due to time and life and sometimes your old pair of favorite jeans just doesn’t fit anymore.

A few months ago, when the weather got colder, I found myself with numerous jeans in my closet, but none of them were ones I could wear. I know that sounds dramatic, and you’re probably thinking, “Yeah right, Melissa, I’m sure they fit, you just didn’t like them.” But honestly, they either had holes in them (great style for the spring and fall; not so much for the winter) or they were too tight. (Plus I had a couple great pairs of black jeans, but everyone needs a blue jean option!)

In an attempt to bolster my jean wardrobe, I went consignment shopping. In person and online. And yet, it didn’t quite work out. I ended up with more pairs that didn’t fit well. I started to think I might need to buy new again. I was almost going to go online to a store when one of the people I follow on Instagram reminded me that it takes almost 2,000 gallons of water to grow enough cotton for a pair of jeans. I couldn’t do it. I had to find some pre-loved ones. I doubled down on my consignment skills.

I am pleased to report that as of last weekend, I have two pairs of completely serviceable blue jeans without holes in them!

Here’s what I learned from the bumpy process of buying a few too many pairs of not-quite-right jeans. Hopefully these reminders will help you if you, too, find yourself in a “I need new jeans” moment:

one. // Try them on. To some this probably sounds like a no-brainer, but it the world of buying used clothes there are often situations in which you don’t have the opportunity to try something on. Many brick-and-mortar thrift stores have closed their fitting rooms since the pandemic for health or staffing issues and online stores like thredUp and Poshmark have great selections of like-new jeans but you can’t try them on before they arrive in the mail. Not trying them jeans on is almost always a mistake. Sometimes you get lucky, but often you don’t.

two. // Sizes are not always the same. I currently have jeans that fit me in at least three different sizes. The fit of even the same brand can vary so much depending on the cut and material and who has previously worn them. This factor points you back to tip number one: try them on!

three. // Don’t be too committed to one brand. Like many, I love Madewell jeans. Everlane is great too. But when I’ve shopped at consignment stores, I’ve found some great jeans from new-to-me brands. “Low-end” brands can actually be thicker material than a more expensive brand. Jeans made by a brand you’ve never purchased before might be just the ticket.

four. // Be thoughtful about whether or not you want holes. I mentioned this in my intro: the trend of jeans with holes in them is cool, but not always practical. I like wearing hole-y jeans during the warmer months, but they sit in my closest when it’s cold out.

five. // Ask your friends about their jean stash. There’s no way you’re the only one who has a pair of jeans or two that doesn’t fit quite right. I was lucky enough to grab a couple pairs from a friend recently. Maybe even arrange a jeans swap (that would get me in trouble!).

What about you? I want to hear your jean stories! I know you have one!