By Kelly Mosser

Summer and early fall are the perfect times to experiment with denim and try out the season’s hottest trends. A diverse jean collection does not simply imply an array of light and dark washes; this season encourages a variety of fits, colors and styles that might have been viewed as impractical in years past. But this season, it’s all about stepping out of your comfort zone without looking over the top.

Colored pants are popping up on the streets of New York, Paris, Milan and London this year. This trend allows for experimentation with color that goes beyond a standout shoe or playful purse. With pattern play and color blocking encouraged this season, it’s hard to go wrong with a pair of colorful denim bottoms. Wear a pastel pair with a bold-colored silk or structured top or pair floral print pants with a subtle print on top. Look to choose hues that aren’t exclusively for summer, and this trend can wear into fall when paired with a chunky sweater and boots.

The high-waisted denim look exudes essence of Marilyn Monroe, who knew a thing or two about how to dress a woman’s body. High rise jeans automatically amp up an outfit’s femininity by cinching you at the smallest part of your body and drawing attention to your waist. But don’t mistake this trend for the “mom jean” look. Keep this trend current by looking for a tight fit through the legs and hips. Pair a high-rise skinny jean with flats and a billowy shirt tucked in for daytime or do a cropped corset top with heels for a night out.

Wide-leg trousers are back in this season, and make for a fresh and effortless standout ensemble. Different from bell-bottom jeans that only flair at the bottom, these pants should create width from the knee and continue to the floor. The look is structured, and looks best in a light blue or white wash for summer. Wide-leg trousers are a staple for fall as well, since they make you look sharp and sophisticated, without looking like you tried too hard. Keep it simple on top: pair this style with a relaxed knit shirt or a ribbed cardigan, to further enhance the vertical theme of the outfit.

New to the “in” list this season is the patchwork look that’s being championed by brands like 7 For All Mankind, Adriano Goldschmeid and Gap. This look is artsy, but a structured fit without excess fringe prevents it from looking too hippie-ish. This look is clean and neat, and looks best when paired with a light or sheer blouse in a neutral color. These jeans speak for themselves, and don’t need a ton of accessories to hit the mark. Toughen up the look with black footwear with a bit of studded embellishment.

Don’t, by any means, get rid of your old denim favorites this season, but do be daring enough to try these trends that will give your wardrobe a little pick-me-up. No need to splurge on high-end jeans here, since it’s too soon to tell whether these trends will last until next summer. But their ability to pair with tops you already have and a versatility that takes them from summer to fall, they’re a definite must-try for right now.

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