For those praying for the demise of the skinny jean, hope may be in sight.

As a promotion for back-to-school shoppers, American Eagle Outfitters is sponsoring a contest in which customers will choose their favorite jeans fit for the fall.

Through July 24, shoppers who buy a pair of AE jeans will receive a ticket indicating which fit they chose. On Aug. 28, the most-purchased fit for girls and guys will be announced in AE stores and on www.ae.com. Customers who purchased the winning fit will be able to redeem their ticket for a free pair of any AE jeans in the store. All other tickets can be redeemed for $10 off any pair of AE jeans.

Happily, the choices include more than the ubiquitous “skinny” jean.

Fits for women range from:
The “Boyfriend” - sits low on the waist with a relaxed, loose leg
The “Patch Pocket and Utility Wide Leg” - wide-leg styles which open up to a 21 inch leg
The “Stretch Trouser” - sits low on the waist and opens to a 23 inch leg
The “Favorite” - has the highest waist of all AE jeans fits and is flared at the leg The “Skinny” is also offered, as is the “Straight,” a similar fit but with more room from knee to ankle.

Men’s fits such as boot cut, loose, and low rise versions of boot, slim boot and slim straight also part of the contest.

The company, which sells jeans, graphic T-shirts, accessories, outerwear, footwear and swimwear for teens, operates more than 800 stores in the United States and Canada.

– Written by Regan E. Doherty