Look, I totally get the retro appeal of a low-slung pair of jeans. Revealing just the right amount of skin and allowing that hot mid-riff moment, they can feel sexy and evoke a specific noughties energy we can totally get on board with. But sometimes, you just want to feel the safety and comfort only a high-rise trouser can bring. And it really doesn't get safer and more comfortable than a pair of ribcage jeans.
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What are ribcage jeans?
Let's start with how to identify a pair of ribcage jeans. Well, it's a term often synonymous with denim experts at Levi's, who took the word and created a whole design approach around it. The trick of ribcage jeans, as the name suggests, is for the top of the waistband to touch your actual ribcage. They're at the top of the pyramid when it comes to high-waisted jeans, creating an optimal combo of defining your waist and lengthening your legs – without looking like a clown trouser. You know that perfect vintage jean you see all the street style girlies wearing out and about? Modern ribcage jeans offer a similar vibe without the chaos of vintage sizing.
Ribcage jeans can come in a variety of lengths and shapes – from straight to barrel through wide-leg; puddling, cuffed or cropped. Finding your perfect pair will obviously depend on your personal preference and body shape, but there's no denying that there's a ribcage jean for everyone out there.
Although its elongated silhouette is definitely a plus, the biggest appeal of this shape is that they keep the area of our body most of us feel sensitive about totally tucked in and sort of cinched. They're basically shapewear in denim form.
How to find the perfect ribcage jean for you?
Here, it's all about knowing your body type, your wardrobe and what makes you feel good. There isn't a singular rule to follow, but you can always rely on your personal instincts. While it's true that people with shorter bodies and longer look great in wide-leg jeans, playing with proportion can be quite an exciting part of the styling process.
The most important thing is to consider pieces that are already your wardrobe favourites and go from there. For example, if you're currently obsessed with a pair of mid-heel Mary Janes, find a ribcage jean that looks great with it. Like that, you've figured out a pairing that will serve as a base of your spring look. This way of matching pieces you love will make sure you don't end up buying pieces and letting them sit in your closet for too long, totally unworn.
How to style ribcage jeans?
As a main guideline, think about ribcage jeans as an opportunity to actually showcase your waist rather than hiding it. Using accessories, like belts, charms or silk scarves, as a way to accentuate the waistband is a great layering trick that will give interest without adding too much volume. Similarly, make sure your top either cuts off just above your waist-band or that you can tuck it in. This way, you can continue the silhouette without interrupting the flow.
Scroll below to find out more ideas on how to style ribcage jeans with specific pieces from your wardrobe.
One of the oldest tricks in the book works just as well with a pair of ribcage jeans. Double denim is a long-time favourite for a reason – and it's always a good idea in our books. Pair your straight ribcage jean in a lighter colour with a broad-shouldered denim shirt or a loose denim jacket in a wash that is at least a few shades darker. This way, the contrast will create some visual harmony. Wear with a classic black loafer and a shoulder bag for that off-duty model vibe.
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Even if you're a fan of the oversized blazer look (me too!) – there's no point in waisting a waist. Pair your straight or barrel ribcage jean with a cinched suit jacket that will ensure that bodycon vibe while not compromising on the comfort. That easy but high-impact language continues with some black slip-on flats and a statement bag in a contrasting colour. If it's a look that's good enough for Shailene Woodley, it's good enough for us, too!
Even though the Wuthering Heights mania is slowly dwindling down, we're still not ready to say our farewells to the corset. Just in time for spring, the ribcage jean will give it a whole new look. Tucked into the high-waisted, loose or baggy jean, the corset (ideally in a similar colour) has a modern, street-style vibe that's perfect for this season. Instead of reaching for a heel, stick to chunky flats or a mid-heel boot. That play of rough and soft will make this outfit a total hit.
Prim and proper, but with a bit of a wink. A preppy Oxford shirt reveals its naughtier side when cropped and worn with a high-waisted loose jean. Make sure to leave a few of the buttons on the shirt undone – both top and bottom – and you'll end up with a sense of breeziness that will move with every step. Complete this look with a pointy heel in a contrasting colour or a cowboy boot and some statement jewellery.
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If Levi's is ruling the roost with the ribcage jeans on the high-street, then the ultimate French girl cool brand Chloé is doing the same in the luxury world. They have the high-waisted jean nailed to perfection, and it's definitely one to consider if you're thinking of investing into a pair.
But even if your budget doesn't stretch that far, you can still get that Chloé look – and the key is in matching the high-waist of the trouser with a cropped jacket, trench or blazer. Wear a simple tee or a ruffly blouse underneath, tucked into the trousers and secured with a thin belt. Honestly, this look is exactly what spring fashion dreams are made of.
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