Bernie Taupin must have understood the power denim holds when writing the opening lines of Elton John's popular song, "Tiny Dancer."  I think every woman wants to have a bit of "Tiny Dancer" in her.  With some help from Andy Paige's book, Style on a Shoestring, here are some tips n' tricks to getting the perfect pair of jeans without agonizing over it:

Zippers: 

Generally, zippers that are the length of the hand mean that a jean is mid-rise. Zippers that are longer are high-rise; shorter, low-rise. Mid-rise is almost always going to be the most flattering fit. It cuts the tummy in half and gives a long, lean look. 

The Yoke: 

The yoke is the v-shaped panel in the back waist-band. The larger the yoke, the small the butt appears. It creates a curvy fit and helps the jeans sit close to the body. A large yoke also means the waist will probably fit better. 

Pockets: 

The larger the pockets, the smaller the butt. Visa-versa. Also: pockets that are slanted (versus pockets that are straight across) are usually best. They help accentuate the good curves. 

Legs: 

If you are over 5’5”, do yourself a favor and buy a great bootleg. They are so flattering. Not so much for the shorties. Petite women should concentrate on a more straight leg style. 

Just so You Know... August, September, and January are often the best months to buy great jeans. “Jeans” are what we garden in. “Denim” is what we wear outside the home. Sleek, dark denim jeans are a must!  

Trouser dark wash jean.  $89.50  (Great for the workplace!)

http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=12303&vid=1&pid=731723

Women's "The Dreamer" Bootcut Jean, on sale for $19.00 

http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=48621&vid=1&pid=662350

CJ by Cookie Johnson 'Faith' Straight Leg Jean, $117

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3083551?cm_cat=datafeed&cm_pla=bottoms:women:pant&cm_ite=cj_by_cookie_johnson_'faith'_straight_leg_stretch_jeans_(cosmos_blue):262154_5&cm_ven=Froogle&mr:trackingCode=9645E279-F7E0-DE11-9DA0-002219319097&mr:referralID=NA#reviewAnchor

J Brand - 805 Mid-rise Straight Leg Jean, $158

http://www.jbrandjeans.com/805_MidRise_Straight_Leg_Jean_in_Ink/pd/c/104/np/104/p/1080.html