OUTFIT EQUATIONS FT. MATH CLUB JEANS & SLACKS
Style /
July 2021
Now you don’t have to be good with numbers to look like you’re good with numbers. All thanks to the Math Club, an overachieving high-rise jean with a nerdy-chic kick and a zip fly thrown into the equation just for fun. Available in flared denim, and now a straighter-leg cut in chino or check.
“I could talk forever about the Math Club,” says Jill Guenza, Vice President of Design for Levi’s® Women’s Apparel. “I really think there’s this desire for more personality in what we’re wearing right now. We were in skinny jeans forever and ever, and they’re still important, but now there’s this whole other range of styles—and attitudes that these styles can bring—that people are embracing.”
It started with mom jeans, then dad jeans and now these smart shapes have their hand raised for attention. But hold up. Were we the only ones ridiculed in the school lunch line for wearing high-waisted high waters? What makes these pants so bully-proof
“The trick is to create a silhouette that is super flattering, but still maintains that attitude, that contrast—and the Math Club really has it,” Jill explains. “You know what I think it is? I think people have this real love of ironic contrasts—and ‘nerdy chic’ is just the latest extension of that. There’s a little bit of irony mixed in with the fact that it is so high, and flooded, but looks so great.”
It’s true. From the waist-emphasizing rise to the just-right amount of roominess through the hips down to the gentle flare, the overall effect is this kind of easy-but-tailored looseness that complements a whole range of body types. They’re the pants you wish you wore in high school. (Big congrats to those of you who still have that opportunity!)
Regardless of graduation date, we can all learn a thing or two about how to style these A+ fits. Thus, we present a cheat sheet from our expert in-house styling team—featuring four outfit equations that are the solutions to all your “what to wear today” problems. Who said math can’t be sexy?
CUTE CABLE-KNIT - SLEEVES = THE “TUTOR EVERYONE HAS A CRUSH ON” LOOK
We’re taking “look smart” literally, and nothing says brainy-but-approachable like a sweater vest. And thanks to that relaxed fit we mentioned above, these jeans will keep you comfortable throughout all your extracurricular activities. Finish the preppy-but-not-too-preppy ensemble with a pair of classic loafers.
SWEET TOP X CHECKS APLENTY = THE “BRINGS SNACKS TO STUDY SESSIONS” LOOK
How precious is this shirt with its pretty ribbing and dainty embroidery? Pair it with these delightful gingham pants to multiply the amount of compliments received. “We call this a ‘shoe cut,’ says Jill. “A little bit longer than a crop, it hits just above the shoe at the exact right part of the ankle. That’s the perfect ‘nerd zone’ we’re going for.” The loafers are adorable, but we also love these with sneakers or little ankle boots.
WEAR-EVERYWHERE UNIFORM ÷ REMOVABLE LAYERS = THE “BUSTS THE CURVE WITHOUT STUDYING” LOOK
These slacks were inspired by a pair in our ’60s archives, then adjusted with that laid-back fit we’re seeing everywhere today. Presentation time? Ditch the sweatshirt, tuck in your button-up and let that pointed collar remind everyone just how much of a pro you can be. Meanwhile, the statement boots won’t let them forget how stylish you are, either.
POLISHED BLOUSE + TEXTURED OVERCOAT = THE “ACTUALLY DOES THE WORK IN A GROUP PROJECT” LOOK
We think a feminine top is the perfect counterbalance for jeans that are looser and more casual. Tie the collar into a masterful bow, then throw on some sophisticated, full-length outerwear and your “she-gets-it-done” vibe is complete.
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