What flatters your best features, handles well in every occasion, and often looks better with age?

Ah, premium denim…. how we love your ways. (If only you could share your secrets with some people we know.)

Dress it up, down, or a combo of both, premium denim is the handsome workhorse of your wardrobe. By “premium” we mean denim with high quality materials and construction, stylish washes and impeccable fits. Some of our top recommendations for men now include Citizens of Humanity, AG, Agave, and Hudson. These lines consistently impress on all counts. Another refreshing thing? They run fairly true to size.

Another line that’s gained a lot of popularity is 7 For All Mankind. If you own a pair, you’ve probably noticed they stretch. A LOT. So if you’re set on buying “7s”, Beware: Your sizing will be different; and you’ll need to adjust the rules of your regular “Do they fit?” test.

Follow these guidelines to avoid ending up with a pair of soon-too-big jeans. (And the sad realization that you didn’t really lose 10 lbs. two weeks later — you just lost your investment.)

7 For All Mankind: 3 Important Things to Know About Sizing

If they feel “just right” new, they will soon be TOO BIG.
The construction of 7′s causes them to stretch about 1-2 sizes when “breaking in,” and are difficult to shrink back.

If they’re so tight you feel like “Mr. January 2012,” they’re probably about right.
Trust me on this one. The best long-term fit will be a pair that feels 1 – 2 sizes too small.

To get a sense of how much (and how fast) they’ll stretch:
Try on the pair that feels one size too tight, and then move around normally for 10 minutes. If shopping, put them on first and wear while you try on other shirts, etc. No time? Take them home and wear them around the house for a bit. Within minutes, you’ll start to feel them “soften” a lot, especially in the inseam (crotch) area.

And as with any premium denim, expect to get them hemmed after purchase. Like a suit jacket, quality brands usually come in one length, with the understanding you’ll have them tailored for a perfect fit.

So if you’re set on 7s,  be sure to follow these rules to make the most of your investment. And if you magically find an actual (official) size chart for men’s 7′s out there, please share it on our Facebook page!

Good luck!

— Aydika Jack James & The Hendricks Park Team