I could also be 29, however most of the time, folks mistake me for being 21. I blame it on being 5 toes tall with a child face. Each time I share my actual age, I get the identical line: “You will respect trying younger if you’re older.” Perhaps sooner or later I’ll—however that day hasn’t come but.
Due to this, I’ve spent years determining tips on how to gown extra mature. I’ve realized that maxi or midi skirts and clothes work higher for me than brief ones, and that lengthy, fitted denims are infinitely extra flattering than cropped or dishevelled types. Nevertheless, I am all the time looking out for brand spanking new silhouettes and designers to attempt. For instance, a number of months in the past, after listening to everybody discuss Khaite Denims, I went into the NYC flagship retailer and ended up splurging on a pair as a result of they one way or the other make me look taller. I additionally lately crammed up my closet with maxi pencil skirts from Enza Costa and COS. In any case of that, one model was nonetheless on my must-try listing: Nili Lotan, particularly its denim. Between TikTok, Instagram, and Substack (sure, I am chronically on-line), each vogue influencer I comply with has been raving about how good Nili Lotan denims are. Whereas they’ve all spoken concerning the match, the texture, and the standard, I observed that each individual, no matter their physique sort, appears somewhat extra refined and put-together with the denims on, so naturally, I used to be intrigued.
For these unfamiliar, Nili Lotan is a New York–primarily based designer who launched her eponymous label in 2003 following a profession at famend labels corresponding to Ralph Lauren and Nautica. Over the previous 20 years, she has constructed her model round timeless, refined staples—items which are clear, practical, and opulent, which her denims exemplify. They’re all comprised of Japanese denim, a high-grade, long-staple cotton recognized for its sturdiness and exquisite fade over time. In different phrases, they’re constructed to final.
Since I am simply persuaded, but in addition all the time should see for myself, I made my method to Nili Lotan’s Tribeca retailer to attempt on the model’s prime 4 best-selling denim types—Shon, Joan, Megan, and Florence. With out additional ado, hold scrolling to see how every pair suits and the way they made me really feel and, hopefully, look extra mature.
Nili Lotan Shon Denims
(Picture credit score: @nikki.chwatt)
My assessment: Whether or not you are a longtime fan of Nili Lotan or simply discovering the model, it is seemingly you’ve got come throughout the cult-favorite Shon pant. This barrel-leg silhouette has appeared within the closets of celebrities corresponding to Anne Hathaway and Emma Roberts, in addition to vogue editors and content material creators. Other than its endorsements, the Shon pant has gained popularity of its ultra-soft cloth, utilitarian-inspired pockets, and a match that is each snug and flattering. To additional clarify its recognition, the model options a complete part and touchdown web page showcasing every thing concerning the Shon, from wool and cotton types to leather-based, corduroy, and Japanese denim—the latter of which I attempted on.
Now, let’s dive in to the assessment. To start out, the Shon pant tends to run massive, as my attentive gross sales affiliate kindly knowledgeable me. Usually, I put on a measurement 25 in denims, so I went with a 24, and I may have probably gone down one other measurement with out difficulty. Whereas the 24 match, it sat a bit decrease on the waist than the meant mid-rise fashion.
I liked the uniquely curved silhouette and seam element on the knees, which gave it a basic barrel-leg look whereas nonetheless being figure-flattering—no small feat for somebody like me, who’s solely 5 toes tall. I used to be particularly comfortable to see how the legs gently tapered at my ankles, fairly than pooling on the bottom.
Total, these denims are perfect for anybody searching for fashionable but snug denim. They’re the pair you seize when the purpose is to look put-together with minimal effort.
Measurement vary: 23–32
Washes: 3
Inseam: 26″
Sizing tip: Measurement down
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Nili Lotan Joan Denims
(Picture credit score: @nikki.chwatt)
My assessment: After I requested my gross sales affiliate to tug the best-selling types, she hesitated earlier than suggesting the Joan, warning they’d seemingly be far too lengthy for me. Nevertheless, I do know they’re one of many model’s hottest pairs, so I insisted on making an attempt them on and cuffing them beneath for footage—and I am so glad I did. Sure, they’re lengthy—longer than most denims I’ve worn, however in each different respect, they’re close to excellent. Plus, Nili Lotan gives complimentary hemming in-store and on-line. For in-store, it’s obtainable on all pants (denim and non-denim). On-line, it is just obtainable for the model’s denim, and clients can carry their buy to a Nili Lotan retailer.
The Joan includes a high-rise, straight-leg silhouette comprised of non-stretch Japanese denim, which implies they run barely small. The match is flattering but subtly relaxed by the leg, and the again pockets sit excessive, making a lifted impact. They arrive in three washes, however for winter, I am a fan of the darkish rinse as a result of it feels particularly refined when paired with my black sweaters and coats.
If I needed to examine these to a different favourite denim, I might say they’re most just like Khaite’s Danielle denims, solely with a contact extra flexibility—and at almost half the value.
Measurement vary: 24–32
Washes: 3
Inseam: 34″
Sizing tip: Measurement up
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Nili Lotan Florence Denims
(Picture credit score: @nikki.chwatt)
My assessment: Anybody who claims patch-pocket denim is outdated hasn’t seen the Florence denims. Nili Lotan refreshed this fashionable French-backed denim development by barely enlarging the entrance pockets in comparison with different types, launching them in three very 2025 washes—black and two medium-blue distressed shades that evoke a classic attraction—and developing them in Japanese denim for a high-quality appear and feel. The Florence denims match true to measurement however are pretty cosy, particularly within the higher thighs. Their fashion flows into an extended, bootcut hem, giving an additional nod to ’70s vogue.
Speaking concerning the ’70s, these denims exude a carefree, bohemian spirit that feels relaxed and aligns nicely with the bigger development towards boho-inspired vogue we’re noticing this yr. It appears equally good paired with billowy blouses because it does with a easy tee and a brief jacket.
Measurement vary: 23–32
Washes: 3
Inseam: 34″
Sizing tip: Runs true to measurement
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Nili Lotan
Florence Denims
Nili Lotan Megan Denims
(Picture credit score: @nikki.chwatt)
My assessment: Traditional wide-leg denims have develop into a favourite amongst vogue folks, and this pair is an actual contender. The Megan denims characteristic a mid-rise silhouette that matches snugly across the waist and hips, cascading right into a cropped extensive leg—although, I need to admit they did not find yourself cropped on me. Crafted from luxuriously comfortable Japanese stretch denim, these denims really feel like a delicate embrace in opposition to the pores and skin. I can simply envision sporting them on a long-haul flight, which is a giant assertion since I usually stick with leggings or elevated sweatpants for journey.
They do not have entrance pockets, which is a bit new for me, however I do love the thick waistband that makes a press release whereas flattering the waist. I can envision insiders pairing these with a calf-length heeled boot and a fitted leather-based jacket, or with ballet flats and a polo sweater. The flexibility of this pair makes it an important addition to any It woman’s wardrobe.
Measurement vary: 24–32
Washes: 2
Inseam: 28″
Sizing tip: Runs true to measurement
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