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If there’s one true closet staple, it’s the classic jean. Whether it’s paired with a printed cotton top or a silk blouse, you can’t go wrong with this timeless piece. However, the search for perfect denim is often a fruitless quest that results in disappointment. Fortunately, Buenos Aires is packed with stores and showrooms selling everything from the basic blue jean to handmade pairs coated with rubber and decked out with zippers. In essence, there’s a jean for everyone in Buenos Aires.
At O’Assian Craft in Palermo SoHo (Gurruchaga 1565), you can find one of the best selections in town. Each pair possesses a unique attribute such as back pocket zippers, dangling chains, or golden tags and with the high amount of stock, you never have to worry about finding your size. The service at O’Assian is attentive without being overbearing, and as a bonus, if you buy two pairs, you get the second one half off. Although these jeans are generally very long, they fit perfectly in the leg, waist, and bottom, so get ready to show off your gorgeous figure.
If accessorized jeans are not your style, I head to Paula Cahen d’Anvers (Honduras 4888) for the basic, unpretentious pair. They come in varying lengths, so no matter your height you are probably going to have success. Each season brings new styles, and whether you prefer low or high waist, you’re in business at Paula. Although each Paula location sells the jean line, your best bet for the most sizes and selection is the Honduras boutique in Palermo. While you’re there, pick up a comfy cotton top to accompany your new jean, and you’re ready to go.
As much as we all love a simple jean, there are days we want a dressier look that still keeps us comfortable. In the world of couture jeans, no one does it like Benito Fernandez (Honduras 4681). Italian denim, gray washes, and purple buttons make these jeans about as high end as you’re going to get. Despite these elegant touches, Benito maintains a traditionally slim fit free of accoutrements such as flashy tags or chains. Be prepared for a price tag of 700-900 pesos per pair, but if it’s designer jeans you’re after, this is the place to go.
Photo by Abigail Rasmussen
Speaking of high end, the highlight of a Buenos Aires denim expedition can be found at Kostume (Republica de la India 3139). Featuring the brand new line by Santana Textiles, these are unforgettably unique jeans made for a woman with a taste for high design. With black pairs coated in rubber and accented with back pocket zippers, designers Camila Milessi and Emiliano Blanco have truly reinvented the jean concept. At Kostume, the jean has gone from basic staple to couture accessory. As of now, the line has not officially arrived in Kostume’s boutique, but if you want to take a look, you can ask to try on “las muestras.” Trust me, you’ll be dying to come back.
As with most fashion items in Buenos Aires, there is also an underground movement of exclusive jeans sold in secret showrooms. The queen of the elite jean is Sofia Forbes (sofiaforbesjeansparis@gmail.com), whose San Telmo apartment is converted into a showroom displaying her classic skinny jean. She utilizes Italian denim, buttons from Britain, and stylish pocket stitching, and if it’s a sexy tight fit you’re looking for, you won’t be disappointed. Within weeks Sofia is taking her jean line to a new level and opening a boutique, so be prepared for her to move from hidden treasure to fresh face on the fashion scene.
The pursuit of the perfect jean can be a long and arduous process, but in Buenos Aires, the range of options from classic to couture means there’s a pair for every woman. Keep at it, ladies. The jean of your dreams is out there.
Xoxo
Your BAShopGirl
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