It is kind of amazing that after almost 30 years of life as an avid shopper, I can still be wearing certain items for the first time.  But since I’ve started blogging and letting go of outmoded, negative “rules” about what to wear, it has been happening more and more.  Just last year, I wore my first crop top and my first romper (of my adult life).

This sartorial first was even more challenging for me – it took almost a year of searching to find a pair that I actually felt good in.  I was surprised to find them in H&M’s lackluster plus size department.  It is only offered at a couple stores in NYC, and at the Herald Square location is literally tucked in a back corner, unmarked – I didn’t see it even after doing two circles around the floor looking for it.  (H&M, please get it together – this is a shameful way to treat customers).

The digging was worth it for me in the end though – these jeans are everything I’ve been looking for in boyfriend jeans: The right color (not too dark or too light); the right amount of distressing (just a bit, with natural looking fading and whiskering); and the right slouchy-but-not-sloppy fit (though I had to go two sizes up to get it – their pant sizing seems to run small).

I wore these to dinner in the West Village with friends, and I loved the look.  I’m so happy I keep pushing my sartorial limits.

Boyfriend jeans: H&M+ 

Black tank: H&M

Striped blazer: Mossimo (Target)

Mustard yellow crossbody bag: Phillip Lim for Target

Woven flats: Blowfish