Three years ago the fashion world introduced a trend many thought would end up like the poncho — out in a matter of months. But skinny jeans have held strong, and the chic are well into wearing their fourth pair.

The good news is that skinny jeans have adapted to even the most casual occasions — not just for a special night out. The bad news is people who couldn't wear skinny jeans had to find alternatives, and it's never fun to be left out.

Don't worry, there is hope: the best attribute of these jeans is the size and placement of the back pockets. They visually minimize your butt, while stretch denim gives legs breathing room.

My favorite thing about skinny jeans is the way this European trend is popular across the Atlantic. Not all European trends take off in the United States; it's a gamble for mainstream American brands to try something as daring skinny jeans, explaining why it takes so long for trends to spread to America. (In Europe this style is referred to as "cigarette pants" though we remarketed them as skinny jeans to be more politically correct.)

If you are scared these jeans will make you look fat, you may find that it's actually the opposite. Skinny jeans highlight the ankles, and as the skinniest part of your legs, this increases the illusion of length.

Skinny jeans are not okay to pair with sweatshirts, hoodies, fleece (gag me) or anything sporty. You'll feel more confident if you hang up the fleece and put on something fitted and personality showing. I have to add that you shouldn't never wear a skirt over your skinny jeans — it's just considered tacky.

While you have freedom on the tops you pair with skinny jeans, there are several rules when it comes to shoes.

First, ballet slippers are not as versatile as commonly believed. When decorated with little bows, they loose their charm.

Mary Jane peep-toe heels in any color are a hit with skinny jeans, but please don't wear them to school — save them for nights out.

Finally, don't wear athletic tennis shoes with these jeans. You can wear Converse, but remember that they look their best when well worn in.

As a side note, trying to tuck flared jeans into boots does not work: Stop. It ruins your sillhouette to have puckered denim sticking out of your boots.

Guys out there may wonder if skinny jeans will ever become mainstream for dudes — most likely not. Guys with their own unique style look great in skinny jeans, but it takes confidence to pull off.

I want to stress that people should dress for their personality without trying to be someone they're not. You come first, then add the trendy styles.

[Reach columnist Shanelle Smith at features@thedaily.washington.edu.]