ORIGINALLY PRINTED AND ONLINE ARCHIVED IN NEW CITY MAGAZINE STYLE SECTION 2/13/2008

“Nice butt.” It’s only an occasional compliment for most (that is, unless you’re Beyonce). For men, though, the odds of this compliment occurring more often could happen with the right tool: your blue jeans.

I had the luck to meet pros in the jean industry. At Ariano Goldschmied (AG) (48 E. Walton Street) I met store manager, Tony Tadijanovic, who walked me through the history of their denim while we perused the second floor of their Chicago location. Rows of jeans folded crisp, and ordered like books at a library, intimidate me as I walk in the door. So many cuts and washes, it’s hard to know which ones are going to flatter my body type. Guys, it’s true. As much as you don’t want to admit that you care how your jeans fit, you have to be concerned. Baggy is out. Remember that. Also, if you’re tall you don’t want a skinny boot cut (it will make you look lanky). If you’re shorter you’re not going to want a wide leg (it will make you look chunky). But, no fear. AG caters to these types-- the clueless jean buyer-- and takes pride in knowing what your lower half needs.

Tony tames my anxiety by giving me crucial details every guy needs to know about their favorite everyday staple. First, jeans are an investment. Denim can be dressed down for a night with the guys or up for that first date at a high-end sushi joint—the same pair for both events. Also, he tells me why quality jeans have a higher price tag. “Our jeans are hand detailed,” he tells me. You’re paying for a handmade piece of art. And if you’re wearing something so often, why shouldn’t you be proud of it?

Tony gives me a booklet that offers different cuts and colors that will aid in my future visits to the store. I fall in love with the stories that come with AG’s garments – a family business with a passion for quality and knowledge of denim. Most importantly, the insight they have to make a guy memorable as he walks away.