As you might have noticed, the term “blue jeans” is now outdated both literally and figuratively with the rise of designer denim brands. No longer simply a wardrobe staple, jeans are often the focal point of an outfit as the sheer number of options continues to expand. For S/S’12, it’s all about color as denim comes in a riot of shades ranging from sorbet to neon. Plus, the trend won’t abate once the weather cools  so extra points for investing in Rag & Bone’s metallic legging jeans or Current/Elliott’s leopard print version. While some may cringe at the idea of wearing such a “look at me” print on their bottom half, it’s one of the easier trends to pull off as long as you choose a “skinny” cut and pair with a simple t-shirt and heels. Check out my favorite brands – J Brand and 7 for all Mankind – for inspiration as they do the best slim fitting jeans in my opinion.

All jeans pictured below are available at Shopbop.

J Brand

Diane von Furstenberg

Rag & Bone

J Brand

Rich & Skinny

7 For All Mankind

Hudson

Habitual

Blank Denim