Penney's and sears actually have some pretty cute jeans that I bought as I was losing weight and didn't want to spend a lot. I got compliments on them all the time from my friends who wear nothing but 7's, true religions and citizens! I also didn't feel bad anymore when I took them to goodwill!
Re: Rather than gouge out my own eyes...
Yes, I totally agree.
I ended up buying new jeans 3 months pp, and I felt SO much better. Its totally worth it to be comfortable in how you look.