Like many of those who came of age in the early aughts, the release of Avril Lavigne’s iconic anthem “Sk8er Boi” had an immediate (and lasting) impact on my style choices. When once my closet was full of The OC-style beach-prep, as soon as the music video for “Sk8er Boi” dropped, all I cared about was lining my lower lids black and wearing low-slung Dickies with a studded belt.
Obviously, my style has evolved since 2002, but a little part of me still has a soft spot for those baggy black jeans I clung to so fiercely in my tween years. And because fashion is cyclical, the silhouette was bound to return — and honestly, I don’t hate it.
However, because I’m 35, AKA a real adult, I wanted a more grown-up version of the pants of my youth. Meaning: a little higher rise, a more elevated fabric, and a cut that actually works for my body. When buying new clothes, I’m also always thinking about how a piece can work in several situations and outfit formulas. I landed on my perfect pair in the Theory Straight-Leg 5-Pocket Pant; see how I styled the jeans for the three scenarios that most often come up in my very adult-ish life in Los Angeles.
For a Coffee Run
A coffee run in LA is very casual, so a white tee and Birks are my go-tos. Now that the weather has started to turn (it’s a chilly 65 degrees here in the morning, yikes!), I’ve been bringing a sweater along with me just in case the coffee shop doesn’t have a table in the sun. The Theory jeans fit right into this outfit combo — they’re comfy and relaxed without being shlubby.
Theory Relaxed Tee, $95; Toteme Cashmere Sweater, $680; Theory Classic Oblong Belt, $95; Birkenstock Boston Clog in Suede Leather, $160; Museum of Peace & Quiet Wordmark Hat, $70
For a Work Event
For a work event, I wanted something a little more polished, but not too office-y. The length of the jeans is perfect for pairing with a kitten-heel boot, and the mid rise is just right for hitting the edge of a slightly cropped cami. The drape of the denim also makes them feel a bit fancier than just run-of-the-mill black jeans, making them ideal for this type of outing.
Calle Del Mar Long Sleeve Cardigan, $450; Bagatiba Dalmatian Drop Necklace, $110; Bagatiba Oval Pyrite Necklace, $120; Toteme Croc Effect Leather Ankle Boots, $755; St. Agni Slim Woven Tote, $425
For Drinks and Dancing
TBH, I wasn’t sure if these jeans were going to work as a “going-out” style, but I was pleasantly surprised by their versatility — this actually ended up being my favorite of the three outfits. I love that they’re long enough to cover a higher heel sandal, and the baggier fit offsets the slinky top. It was a perfect outfit for shaking my hips and being in bed by 10 p.m.
Sir. Freddie Scarf, $190; Wolf Circus Beatrice Earrings in Sterling Silver, $120; St. Agni Black Architectural Wedge Heeled Sandals, $320; Jacquemus Le Bisou Perle Bag, $505
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