$40 jeans for the season

There seem to be two types of denim obsessives. Those who are into one shape and one wash—whether it's a bootcut or a skinny leg—that they buy compulsively, and those who just can't commit and switch it up constantly. My thing seems to be straight-leg, black denim, though I've been experimenting with the boyfriend jean of late (I ultimately splurged on the Red Engine ones, which are as soft as pajamas). And now I'm considering dabbling in this light-wash, flared pair for summer. A significant departure. I'm currently at a photo shoot with Fashion News Director Jen Ford, who is arguing that to make this particular pair from the Gap work, they need to skim the ground. And I think she's right—no shoe exposure at all. Luckily, Gap sells tall sizes online. What's your denim style crutch? (P.S. if this style is not to your taste, there are tons of other cuts on sale, too.)