Few items of a man's wardrobe are as essential as a pair of jeans. This series offers up style tips and history lessons about America's greatest contribution to the world of fashion.
The Cuff CodeCuffed denim is as old as the blue jean itself. And every couple of decades, a new proportion or trend emerges. In the '50s and '60s, the style was a carefree single cuff but by the '80s and '90s, it was a trim, tight roll. Today's cuffs are cropping up in every style. From the disheveled fold to the crisp cuff, how you roll says a lot about you.
The UpturnWhat it says: You like things simple and sophisticated. Or you want to show you sprung for the selvedge denim.
How to do it: Simply turn up the hem. The width can vary from a quarter-inch to over two inches.
Trim CuffWhat it says: You prefer a tailored, traditional look. Or you feel it's the only style that pairs well with narrow jeans.
How to do it: Same as the wide, but the cuff should only be between an inch and an inch and a half tall.
Wide CuffWhat it says: You're easy-going and a tad rugged. Or you couldn't be bothered to have your jeans hemmed.
How to do it: Fold your hem up and over twice. Run your fingers around the cuff to ensure a crisp crease.
The RollWhat it says: You're modern and a tad preppy. Or you like drawing attention to your ankles.
How to do it: Make a double (or triple) cuff about an inch and a half wide, then squish it down slightly to muss it up. Make sure it's uniquely disheveled. Some of the cuff should tuck into itself.
