Yes, I know, the title is awful, but this is an important subject.  I've been raving about skinnies for months, and surprised that so many people are still not into the craze.  While I'm not suggesting you toss out every pair of bootcuts and flares you own (variety is the spice, y'all), I do think that everyone should try at least one pair of skinny jeans.  The main concern most people have with the style is that they are unflattering.  True, in the wrong size or cut, or with the wrong footwear, skinnies can be a full-on disaster.  With some planning and proper fitting and killer shoes, however, they are a look anyone can rock.

First of all, a few notes on fit:

If you are thicker, avoid a very high or low cut jean.  A waist that goes across about an inch below your belly button will cut down on a pooch -- this is the cut I choose for myself!  Another tip is to look for jeans that are slim-fitting but not too tight.  Skinny jeans doesn't have to mean denim tights.  Some skinnies are so tight you can't roll up the bottoms, while others can be easily cuffed.  If you are a bit thicker, choose jeans that are fitted, but not snug.

And onto the shoes!  First, Heels

The number one choice for skinny jeans is without a doubt heels.  Any type of heel will give the illusion of a longer leg and therefore a skinnier body.  That said, my favorites are basic skinny black pumps, or a sexy pair of peep-toes.  A pair of black heels is a staple every woman should own, and I love a sharp point coming out from a slim-fitting pair of jeans.  Peep-toes are a great way to give your look personality and are especially trendy right now.  A peep-toed shoe or a sleek heel with some toe cleavage is a fabulous way to up the sexiness of your ensemble without baring more than your footsies.

Hilary Duff is shown here in a pair of white pumps that give an otherwise basic look a pop and turn a simple white top into something more.    MK Olsen wears a pair of peep-toes that make her grunge-inspired look appear chic and purposeful.

Pointy-Toed Flats

Flats are probably the most popular choice for the average girl on the street to pair with skinny jeans.  Flats are much more polished looking than sneaks/trainers, but can be thrown on just as quickly with almost any outfit.  I do love flats, but especially with skinnies, I prefer pointy-toed flats.  While a round-toed baby flat cuts off the leg abruptly, a skinny toe tapers off, creating a longer leg line.

Gladiators & Other Strappy Sandals

Sandals are a fantastic choice for skinny jeans.  Gladiator heels - or any other type of strappy sandal - can add length to the leg the same way a pointy-toe would.  Avoid flats unless you are tall or very skinny, as they will cut off your silhouette and may make your legs look stumpy.  Fashionista wrote about New Yorkers wearing glads over skinnies, and while it isn't a look all girls can pull off, I do like how it looks on the right person.  My advice is, if you look in the mirror and love the look, rock it.  If you have any doubts whatsoever, tuck the shoes under the jeans.  And again, I cannot stress enough the importance of a heel to keep you looking slim.

While flip-flops-and-flares is my all-time least favorite look, a cute flip-flop with skinnies is tolerable, even cute, if it's summer.  Always a good tip to avoid open-toes when the weather doesn't call for it.  With skinnies, flip-flops can look adorable and even chic.  Make sure you have a good pedicure and opt for leather flops, or flippers with some detailing if you can.  I love the $3 (sometimes $1!) sandals from Old Navy as much as the next girl, but save them for the beach and go for a more sophisticated style for the street.

Style is about personality, and just as crucial is to wear the clothes, don't let them wear you.  If you aren't comfortable in something, it will show.  That said, I hope the guide above will help you try out the laidback chic trend of skinny jeans in a way that is both fun and flattering.

How do you wear your skinnies?