Designer Amy Stephenson is a country girl on a mission to save us from the skinny blues. Yes, there is another look, an alternative to the denim tourniquet that’s just as sexy, classier and much easier to wear. Breathe easy and reintroduce your legs to normal circulation by introducing your jean collection to the perfect trouser fit.

Stephenson leads us on a scenic detour away from skinny denim congestion, straight into Tar Heel Country where she grew up. It was in the pastoral setting of eastern North Carolina where Amy found her collection’s identity—a charming tomboy chic. The Stephenson girl is adventurous, would rather be outdoors, and always up for a spontaneous barefoot run through the woods.

But enough from us, we’ll let Amy Stephenson do the talking. The designer stopped in to share her insight on a few styles.

Johnston Creek Resin Bootcut Jeans "Its strength is in its subtlety! Everyone needs a clean, well cut bootleg jean. Starting with the finest Italian denim, washed rich and dark then adding the button closure--just enough character to make it special. I tried about 7 different back pocket shapes, each size and placement only varying 1/16th of an inch. Amazing what a difference a well shaped, well placed back pocket can make! The leg opening was another labor of love. Not too flared, not straight. Just right!"


Mercer Fisherman Marlin Trouser Jeans "Wow, what can I say about the fisherman, it's by far the most luxurious jean in the collection. I wanted a sailor pant that wasn't too 'sailory' or contrived. This design is functional and mirrors the pants worn by Greek fisherman in the 19th century. The leg is slim and wide at the same time and this jean can be dressed up or down, heels or flip flops. A buyer once asked me if I could 'fake the closure' with a zipper on side seam. The nerve!! The Stephenson customer takes pride in fine dressing and the art of dressing. If that requires fastening 4 buttons, so be it."


Sweet Water Vintage Trouser Jeans "I'm a boho gal...there I said it! The first step is admitting right? My beautiful mother was a sassy dresser in the '70s and I often pull from styles that she wore, this was one. Many people fear the patch pocket but this one curves perfectly in at the right place on your thigh to be perfectly flattering!"


Delta Dawn Sapphire Trouser Jeans "Another one of my mom's '70s gems! I'm channeling a young Lauren Hutton drinking margaritas under a warm California sun. The rise is higher but not restrictive. The wash is a virgin retro blue."