Sikhounmuong actually came to J.Crew from Madewell back in 2015 — so, the designer has become well-acquainted with denim throughout his career. Through his professional experience with the blues, he's learned one thing about this category of apparel: "It's all about the fit," he said. Denim can be very technical in its construction and make-up, he explained, but ultimately what matters is whether you feel comfortable in a particular pair. In terms of optimal look, to Sikhounmuong, nothing beats the worn-in effect — which is why he prefers reworking an old pair of jeans rather than tossing them. "Instead getting rid of them, I always like to see a bit of patching and repair — a raw frayed hem here or an over patched knee there," he noted. "For me, it's not so much about a style coming back, but more about showing more love to the ones you already own." As far as what style might break out come spring, Sikhounmuong has his eyes on a very particular silhouette: "Although the love for our skinny jeans is still going strong, I’m kind of enamored with our higher-ish, straighter slim fits, like our crop or the boyfriend," he admitted. "With so many of the ruffles we're seeing [in tops], it's nice to cut a little of that sweetness with a more boyish fit." So, add to your cart accordingly.