Ask Lynette Nylander to help you find a good pair of jeans, and her face will light up. A writer, podcaster, longtime editor, and now the executive digital director at Harper’s Bazaar, Nylander has spent years building a personal denim wardrobe. She has a strong sense of what works and what doesn’t, and she’s more than happy to share her knowledge. Below, as part of Bazaar's Jeans Queens denim guide, the London native—now based in New York City—takes us through her denim history and delves into which jeans she is loving right now.
On what she looks for in jeans: The most important thing I look for is fit, fit, and fit! It took me a long time to get here. I used to go with the trends, but to the detriment of my body and my style. Now I’ve got it down: a straight leg—not wide, but nothing super tight to the thigh—in a true blue wash. A more baggy fit is good for weekends, when I’m walking around. I find this shape is the most flattering to my diminutive size and busty figure.
On her approach to shopping for denim: Jeans should be size-agnostic. Don’t buy a pair that isn’t for you because of the number on the label. You should get what fits best. Also prioritize and seek out true denim, not the paper stuff you get from fast fashion. That doesn’t need to mean discomfort, though. I like the denim that is truly worn-in from vintage shops—it’s both quality and comfortable.
On her favorite brands right now: My tried-and-true Levi’s (501s and 550s, to be more specific), Frame denim, and Evisu. Agolde are a new favorite. The best brands are the ones which specialize in denim, not a fashion brand who does denim, if that makes sense. However, I have to admit Alaïa jeans are on my wish list.
On her favorite styles: I’m loyal to a mid-rise denim in a mid- to lighter blue wash—rips optional. Agolde does an incredible ’90s style I adore. Frame denim, run by my wonderful friend Erik Torstensson, is always a first stop when it comes to jeans; their slouchy straight-leg is just perfect. And B Sides also has a slouchy jean that’s good for Sundays around the city.
Frame Slouchy Straight in Divine
Agolde ’90s Mid-Rise Straight
On her favorite hidden gems: Every now and then, I run into some amazing vintage jeans courtesy of Raggedy Threads in Brooklyn. Also Jonty Mellmann, who is part of the Fantastic Toiles collective, does special jeans that are handmade, and it’s incredible. Jonty made me a pair of his Martine jeans (named after Martine Rose) that are a mix of classic denim with sweatpants, camouflage, and safety pins—which I love!
