What is the Difference Between Tapered and Skinny Jeans

The main difference between tapered and skinny jeans is that tapered jeans are narrow from knee to ankle, while skinny jeans are narrow all the way down and hug the bottom, thigh and leg.

In modern fashion, both men’s and women’s jeans have a wide range of cuts and fits. Tapered and skinny are two popular jean fits, especially worn by youths. Both are narrower and more form-fitting than straight leg jeans or regular fit jeans.

Key Areas Covered

1. What are Tapered Jeans
     – Definition, Shape, Comfort
2. What are Skinny Jeans
     – Definition, Shape, Comfort
3. What are the Similarities Between Tapered and Skinny Jeans
     – Outline of Common Features
4. What is the Difference Between Tapered and Skinny Jeans
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Jean Fit, Skinny Jeans, Tapered Jeans

What are Tapered Jeans

Tapered jeans are jeans that become narrow towards the bottom, as they reach the ankle. They usually narrow from knee to ankle. These pants are usually form-fitting. Some even consider tapered jeans as a type of skinny jeans. However, some fashion companies make tapered jeans that are roomier at the top and narrower at the bottom. So, they may fit more comfortably around the hips and thighs. Basically, tapered fit jeans are jeans that are wider at the top but narrower at the bottom.

The word ‘tapered’ usually refers to the leg style, i.e., narrower bottom. Tapered jeans are perfect for those who have wider hips and waists. The tapered fit is a popular jean choice among men.

What are Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans are the tightest fit in all jeans. They are also one of the most popular jean fits among today’s youth.  Skinny jeans narrow all the way down and hug the bottom, thigh and leg. These jeans cling to the curves of the body, like a second skin, and is extremely snuggly around the ankles.  They are mostly made from a stretchable material that is a mix of cotton, lycra, or even spandex. This mix of materials allows the fabric to return to its regular state after stretching, without having the appearance of bagginess.

Since skinny jeans cling to the body, they highlight the shape of the body and give the impression of long legs. However, it might take some effort to wear and take off these pants. If you want to wear boots with skinny jeans, you’ll have to wear them over the jean, and there is no room to squeeze the neck of the boot underneath.

Similarities Between Tapered and Skinny Jeans

• Tapered and skinny jeans are popular jean fits among young people.
• Both are narrower and more form-fitting than straight leg jeans or regular fit jeans.

Difference Between Tapered and Skinny Jeans

Definition

Tapered jeans are jeans that narrow from knee to ankle, while skinny jeans are very tight jeans that narrow all the way down and hugs the bottom, thigh and leg.

Shape

Skinny jeans are very tight and cling to the shape of the body, while tapered jeans are wider at the top but narrower at the bottom.

Comfort

Tapered jeans may be more comfortable than skinny jeans since tapered jeans are roomier around hip and waist.

Conclusion

Tapered and skinny jeans are two popular jean fits among young people. Both are narrower and more form-fitting than straight leg jeans or regular fit jeans. The main difference between tapered and skinny jeans is that tapered jeans are narrow from knee to ankle, while skinny jeans are narrow all the way down and hug the bottom, thigh and leg.

Reference:

1. “9 Different Types of Jeans – Top Jeans Fit Types for Men 2018.” Bewakoof, 18 June 2018, Available here.
2. Goddard, Robert. “Tapered vs Straight Jeans: THE STYLE INSIDER.” Robert Goddard Blog, 25 Feb. 2020, Available here.
3. “How to Wear Tapered Jeans for Men.” Off the Cuff, Levi.com, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Tapered Jeans W/Cuff” By kelly (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Flickr
2. “Person Wearing Blue Denim Skinny Pants” (CC0) via Piqsels