Style Hacks for Basic Jeans
Jeans are a closet basic that can seem — well, pretty basic. There are certain style hacks you can make to that basic pair of jeans you’re wearing right now, though, that can make a major impact on your overall style. When you want to upgrade your look in denim, try these different combinations of jeans — that will take your style in denim to the next level.
1. Turn Heads in Head-to-Toe Denim
Styling your jeans returns as a major fashion story this year. If you’re not sure how to wear this trend the modern way, I’ve got you covered with outfit ideas, inspired by the latest denim pieces by designers. Here are 10 ways to wear jeans, including wearable outfits that work for casual days, more dressed up occasions, and even the office.
2. Denim Shirt Dress
The shirt dress is a go-to wardrobe piece that is always stylish for work and play. Several designers this year are offering denim shirt dresses, from crisp, tailored versions to roomier, casual styles. Try one of these denim dresses now as a great way to update your wardrobe. Wear it to work with a quality watch, great heels, and a statement bag. Or take it out for cocktails or on a date with fabulous high heel sandals and an armful of bangle bracelets.
3. Dark Wash Jeans and Chambray Work Shirt
Here’s how to wear the double denim trend and look pulled together for work. Start with high-quality, slim-fitting (not tight) jeans in a dark indigo wash. Add a short-sleeved chambray shirt, then take your look to the next level with a beautiful printed scarf. A structured bag and chunky sandals complete this easy, casual Friday outfit.
4. The Denim Suit
Many high-end designers have included denim in their runway shows in recent years, using it in unexpectedly grown-up ways. Take a look at this insanely fashionable, structured denim suit. Tailored like classic suiting and made for a woman’s body, this suit is a fashionable way to look promotion-ready at work on denim-friendly days.
5. The Denim Jumpsuit
The denim jumpsuit is a fashionable wardrobe essential for spring and summer. This is about as easy as one-piece denim dressing gets. Simply slip on your favorite sandals, and you’re dressed for pool parties, brunch, or shopping with friends.
6. Dark Wash Flares and a Chambray Shirt
Here’s how to wear head-to-toe denim to the office and look like a girlboss. Dark wash denim flares are a sophisticated choice for work, paired with a lighter wash chambray shirt and a standout handbag. Add great shoes, and you’re all set for presentations and meetings.
7. Denim Pencil
The high-waisted, denim pencil skirt has become a closet essential. I love this flattering staple in white for spring and summer. Paired with a tucked-in, chambray shirt, you can wear it easily to work or out for cocktails afterward. For evening, try a statement necklace layered over the shirt. Nude, high heeled sandals or pumps in a shade that closely matches your skin tone will elongate the look of legs.
8. Soft Denim Playsuit
I’m a big fan of the softer, draped denim shorts that are a more grown-up version of old school cuf-offs. This style is sweet for summer in one-piece chambray, such as this super-soft denim jumper. You could wear this outfit for casual wear or dress it up for a casual summer date by adding statement jewelry and high heel sandals.
9. Denim Shirt and High-Rise Jean Shorts
High-rise jean shorts are a fashionable option for summer. Choose a denim pair, such as this trendy style by fashion retailer Topshop, to wear with your go-to chambray shirt. Keep your look unfussy in this outfit by wearing minimal (or no) jewelry and wearing flat sandals or easy sneakers.
10. Denim Vest and Skinny Jeans
The often-overlooked denim vest can be just as versatile in your wardrobe as the jean jacket when you style it right. For a layered look that dresses up a basic summer outfit, try a light wash denim vest, such as this classic style, over your go-to, dark wash skinny jeans, a simple tee-shirt, and lace-up sneakers.