Why the fit matters more than the size
We often choose jeans by size. In practice, it is the fit that decides whether you wear them three times or three years. Two pairs in the same size, one straight and one wide leg, will not give you the same look or the same comfort, and they will not work with the same shoes.
At Pentagone, denim has been our expertise since 1974. Over time we have noticed something simple: the customer who leaves happy is almost always the one who tried two different fits rather than two sizes of the same fit.
The fits we carry
Straight leg. The leg keeps roughly the same width from thigh to ankle. It is the easiest fit to style: it works with running shoes and with ankle boots, and it moves from the office to the weekend without effort. If you are torn between all the options, this is the safest starting point.
Slim leg, also called skinny. The leg follows the line of the body down to the ankle. It is the most requested fit in our assortment. It slips easily into a tall boot and puts the shoe on display. A stretch fabric makes a real difference to everyday comfort, so check the composition listed on the product page.
Bootcut, or semi-flare. The leg widens slightly below the knee. This is the fit designed to be worn over a boot: the hem passes over it without bunching. It lengthens the silhouette without the full retro effect of a flare.
Flare. The opening at the bottom of the leg is pronounced. Depending on the wash and the top you choose, the look runs from openly retro to fairly dressy. It works best with a heel or a bit of sole, so the hem does not drag.
Wide leg. More room from hip to hem. It can be fluid or structured. It balances well with a more fitted top, tucked in or slightly cropped. This is the fit that has gained the most ground over recent seasons.
Denim jogger. The spirit of jeans with a softer waistband and cuff. For long days, for travelling, or simply when comfort comes first.
How to choose, in practice
Start from how you actually live, not from the trend. Jeans for seated workdays, jeans for walking and carrying things, jeans for going out: these are not the same needs.
Then three checks that prevent most disappointments.
The rise. High, mid or low changes the look as much as the fit does. Our guide to rises explains how to decide.
The fabric. Denim with some elastane moves with you. Rigid denim holds its shape more. Neither is better, it is a preference. The composition is listed on every product page.
The length. A few centimetres too many completely change the line of a flare or a wide leg. Measure your inseam once, write it down, and use it.
Three mistakes we see often in store
Choosing on trend alone. The most visible fit this season is not necessarily the one that will suit you. A fit that suits you will serve you for years.
Assuming every brand sizes the same way. They do not. We carry Pentagone, Levi's, Guess, Lois, Projek Raw, Silver and Mavi among others, and the same marked size can fall differently from one brand to the next. Trust the size chart rather than the label in a pair you bought somewhere else.
Skipping the fitting room. This is the advantage of having 23 stores across Québec. Trying two fits side by side settles in ten minutes a question you can turn over for weeks online.
In short
The best fit is the one that matches your days, not the trend rankings. Compare at least two fits, check the rise and the length, and use the fit filters to go straight to the point.
Frequently asked questions
Which fit is the most versatile? Straight leg, generally. It works with almost everything.
Do stretch jeans loosen with wear? It depends on the composition, listed on the product page. Follow the care instructions to preserve the shape.
Do I need the same size in every fit? Not necessarily. Ease and fabric change how a pair sits, which is a good reason to try.
Can I try in store what I saw online? Yes. We have 23 stores across Québec.
