I Hate Wearing Jeans, But This High-Street Pair Totally Changed the Game

This month, spring outfits finally feel within reach, and right now, I’m gearing up for my big wardrobe switcharoo, where I remove all of the wintry pieces that can’t work in the warmer months, pop them into storage and get everything out that’s summer-facing. It’s one of my favourite fashion moments of the year; I get weirdly excited about the cleansing process of unpacking items I haven’t looked at for six months or more. Shopping from your own wardrobe is very satisfying! That said, it is also a good moment for worthwhile and considered new-season investments that go the distance. That’s where this month’s newsletter is focused: smart basics and staples that are good quality and won’t simply be a fleeting trend for a few months.

Remember, you can ask me anything about style and I’ll answer as many questions as I can through this newsletter. Simply submit one through Instagram at @whowhatwear.uk or contact me at @hannahalmassi.

Here's What I'm Obsessed With This Month1. I WON’T SHUT UP ABOUT: Levi’s Ribcage Jeans

Style Notes: Who have I become? As someone who is practically allergic to wearing jeans (I consider myself a person who “doesn’t do casual”), I’ve been living in my pair of Levi’s Ribcage jeans non-stop. From playdates with my five-year-old to days spent on photoshoots, I keep returning to this pair, so let’s decode why. First, and most importantly, the fit is impeccable. I normally struggle to find a silhouette that nips at the waist but doesn’t cut tightly into my thighs, but with these, I chose my normal waist size (30), and no alterations or compromises were necessary. They look good on my butt (immodest, I know) and skim over my tummy and hips. They fit comfortably yet aren’t full of stretch, so they don’t lose shape. The wash is a perfectly seasonless and versatile mid-blue. The leg—I chose straight—was a little long on me because my inner leg measurement wasn’t available when I bought them, but it was easy enough to chop off the hem to hit just above the ankle. Our beauty director, Shannon Lawlor, who is far taller and slimmer than I, has also found these to be a dream option when all other jeans let her down, although she did note that some iterations of style and wash can alter the fit, so don’t be afraid to try on multiple sizes. Consider these very editor-approved!

Shop Levi's Ribcage Jeans:2. UNDER THE RADAR: The Secret High Street

Style Notes: Rather than my obvious go-tos (yes, Zara!) I’ve been enjoying the offerings at totally unexpected high-street stores lately. They are lesser-known and sit at the slightly pricier end of the “affordable” offering, but what I’m discovering in return is better quality, better fits, better fabrics and more interesting designs. One thing all these brands have in common is that they were popular in the ‘90s and ‘00s, so perhaps it’s time for a resurgence. French Connection has received a bit of an overhaul (I wore one of its chic little skirt suits for our recent supper club at The Pem), Jigsaw doesn’t miss and Reiss is beyond chic.

Shop My Picks:3. ASK HANNAH ANYTHING (about style)"Are Sambas and Gazelles still trendy?"

Hannah says, "I am the type of editor who believes anything can be trendy if it suits your style and you love it! So yes, whilst many currently trending trainer styles aren’t Sambas or Gazelles, if these speak to your fashion preferences, then go for it. I’d say these two styles have moved into classic territory and will be favourites for many people for years to come. If you are looking for alternatives, I’d recommend Adidas SL 72, Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 and (shh!) COS’s suede sneakers."

Shop My Favourite Trainers: