Levi Strauss, a little over a century ago, founded a company supplying blue jeans to gold miners looking for strong and tear-resistant clothing. Blue jeans are now the world's most popular and versatile piece of clothing, with peerless comfort and global appeal.

Plus size women often have a difficult time finding jeans that are both comfortable and fashionable. The majority of jeans fit too tight somewhere, either in the leg or waist area. A great pair of jeans can make your legs appear longer while also making your hips appear smaller. The trick is finding the perfect pair of jeans for your body type.

Plus size jeans are increasingly being made with a stretch material that allows the jean fabric to give slightly. Be on the lookout for the word "stretch" when perusing plus size jean labels. Stretch fabric is made of a cotton/poly/spandex blend. As such, it virtually glides on the body and stretches only when and where needed. Stretch fabric jeans provide maximum comfort and enhance your shape. Stretch jeans will continue to stretch out with wear, helping to keep you feeling comfortable throughout your day.

You need to also look for "mid-rise" qualities in plus size jeans. Most jeans sold today are "low-rise" jeans, which are fine if you have no curves; however, if you do have them, low-rise jeans don't compensate for larger waists or hips and thus can look very bad. They emphasize the midriff, pushing excess fat over the waist band, and are also very painful to wear for long periods of time.

A stylish way to stay comfortable is to choose classic cut jeans, also called mid-rise jeans. Classic cut jeans sit just under the wearer's waistline and the straight leg continues from the hip all the way to the tip of the jeans. This adds a long, lean look to the plus size woman.

Stay away from plus size jeans that are over done. This includes embellished jeans with embroidery, additional pockets, excess fading and elaborate stitching. Choose plain, dark colored jeans instead. They are ideal with tees, blouses and sweaters.

Individuals who are plus size, need a wider pant leg to balance out their body. Choose a classic five-pocket design in a dark shade.

Jeans are a very versatile wardrobe option. They can be dressed up, down, worn with any footwear including high heels. Jeans can even provide people with plus size with plenty of wardrobe options because of the variety of colors and fabrics.

When you go shopping for plus size clothing and jeans, find one with high quality stretch fabric. If you find one pair of jeans that fit and look perfect on you, buy another pair just like it. A good pair of plus size jeans can work wonders for you.