Now we've all got jean genes

ALL is forgiven, denim designers. Oh, how we questioned whether you'd gone mad when you shrunk jean legs to tiny proportions, and we certainly wondered whether you were telling us non-size-zero girls to lose some width.

We cursed you under our breath as we desperately poured ourselves into them in the changing rooms, and ate Greggs out of doughnuts and custard creams after we suffered the humiliation of getting stuck. But, as you've finally seen sense and made those unforgiving skinny jeans a thing of the past, we love you once more.

This year, there is more than one "It" jean vying for attention, and no longer is it just about the skinny. Ankle skimmers teamed with ballet flats, boot-cuts, wide-legged teamed with wedges, classic straight-legs worn with heels . . . there's myriad on-trend styles straight from the catwalk.

"While I was personally a fan of skinnies, I did have the height to carry them off," admits Edinburgh stylist Louise Wilson. "Many others, however, didn't have those gene jeans and they were difficult to carry off, leaving them scouring the high street for denim staples.

"This has all changed this season, thanks to the softer feel to fashion this spring and summer. It's feminine, flared and flirty, bringing more flattering silhouettes back to jeans, resulting in a stylish denim for all shapes."

When Kate Moss stepped out in a flattering pair of Diesel Louvelys, the old trusty boot-cut was re-born. This time around, they sit higher in the waist giving a sleeker silhouette and allowing them to go from boardroom to bar. Try Replay, Firetrap, Xile, Warehouse, Topshop and Wrangler for the very best.

With a 70s-inspired, free- spirited feel coming back to clothing, it was only a matter of time before flares returned. Higher-waisted flares are the jean de jour, but petites may feel swamped in such a mass of fabric so opt for a lower waisted pair from Miss Selfridge. Wide-leg flares are a key way to tap into this season's boho vibe and are available widely on the high street. Oasis, Zara, French Connection, Jenners, Harvey Nichols, Next, Dorothy Perkins and Warehouse have the best selection – just add stacked heels or wedges.

Classic fans, fear not as the old faithful straights are still hot for this season. Think smart in dark-wash denim or embrace a summery California vibe with super-light faded denim. The key to picking the right pair is all in the back pocket detail. If they're too small, an ample behind will end up looking even bigger. Versatile straight legs can be worn anytime and anywhere – just dress up or down with flats or futuristic heels. Topshop, Miss Selfridge, Levi's and Harvey Nichols have the best selection.

And for those with gene jeans, don't fear – there are still some figure-hugging jeans around. Look for styles cropped just above the ankle – perfect for showing off your favourite heels, balancing the skin-tight look with top half volume. But for the rest of us: so long skinny.