DEAR SHOPPING: Is there a brand of jeans that does not contain any type of stretch material and would be suitable for a 60-year-old woman? I did a search for "non-stretch denim," but every site that came back had pants with some stretch in them. I'm looking for jeans like the old Levis 501s – no stretch and no curves. I have an average build, not straight up and down but not hourglass, either. Can you help?
– Sally, Roseville
DEAR SALLY: Tall order! There are very few brands available that don't contain at least 2 percent lycra spandex. However, check out these Web sites: www.sheplers.com (a Western wear store) for the Cruel Girl brand and Wrangler's Cowboy Cut or Ultimate Riding jean, which is sanctioned by the American Quarter Horse Association because it's 100 percent cotton and features a built-in flexible knee. Currently, all the Wrangler jeans (and quite a few other brands) are on sale. At www.landsend.com, check out the women's regular Natural Fit Tapered Leg Classic Jeans ($29.50). Last, www. victoriassecret.com carries a style by Original London called Carpenter. It's non-stretch with a relaxed fit. It's also on sale.
Consignment and thrift stores are another option. Years ago, I found an original pair of Levis 501s button-fly jeans for $8 – 100 percent cotton. I contacted Levis headquarters and was told all their denim now has some percentage of stretch.
Also send questions to Shopping for Answers, P.O. Box 15779, Sacramento, CA 95852.
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