When I was growing up, the closest I got to “luxury” fashion was the Next Directory. If you’re old enough to remember it, you’ll know exactly what I mean: a glossy catalogue filled with actual supermodels living impossibly chic lives in far-flung places, all while wearing Next, obviously.
The catalogues may be long gone, but every now and again, Next releases something that takes me right back to that nose-pressed-against-the-glass feeling of wanting the life as much as the clothes.
Blue/White Stripe Lightweight Denim Patch Pocket Cropped Jeans
Blue/White Stripe Lightweight Denim Patch Pocket Cropped Jeans
The second I saw these sun-faded striped patch-pocket jeans online, I was transported. Not just back to my teenage years, when I would have desperately wanted a pair, but firmly into the present too, because suddenly they solved a very modern wardrobe problem I struggle with: what to wear when your everyday denim feels far too heavy for summer.
These 100% cotton curve-friendly jeans are the answer. Lightweight, relaxed and chic in a strolling in Hamptons or St Tropez way, they’re the kind of jeans that work for all body shapes up to a size 24, and need minimal support to shine. Add a cute pair of sandals, a raffia bag, and a chic white top, and you're done.
Pink Stripe Lightweight Denim Patch Pocket Cropped Jeans
Pink Stripe Lightweight Denim Patch Pocket Cropped Jeans
Oh, and as well as the faded blue stripe, there's a faded orange and a pink striped version too, making choosing your favourite colour part of the fun.
Whenever I consider buying something new, I run through a fairly ruthless checklist. The lead question is always the same: how often will I realistically wear it? One look at these and I know - a lot!
Orange/White Stripe Lightweight Denim Patch Pocket Cropped Jeans
Orange/White Stripe Lightweight Denim Patch Pocket Cropped Jeans
They’re jeans I'll reach for all summer, then pull out again next year the moment the weather turns warm. You will too.
At £38, or £40 for the orange pair, the cost-per-wear maths is already looking like a no-brainer.
Now all that remains is choosing your candy stripe. Personally, I’m leaning towards orange, which will look pretty with a light pointelle knit or modern crochet cardigan or short-sleeved knit.
If you're considering these as your lightweight summer denim jeans, don't wait around. Smart, budget-conscious shoppers who love wearing natural fibers over synthetic ones know a good thing when they see it.
