One of the most versatile staples in nearly every woman’s closet is the denim jacket. A denim jacket is there for you when you’re feeling your best, and it’s there in times of absolute fashion misery. Whether you’re stepping into spring or jumping head-first into autumn, a denim jacket is the ideal piece to keep in your wardrobe year-round. And it will never go out of style.
If you’re anything like us , your fingertips likely tingle for your trusty denim jacket the second you begin to question a look. It can be the best way to dress up a lazy get-up or dress down a classic little black dress. But we get it. There are only so many ensembles that you’ve already conjured up on your own, and it’s time to mix things up a bit.
To give you some inspiration, we’ll dive deep into ten super killer looks for what to wear with your denim jacket—you’ll never want to take it off.
Flares
If you haven’t heard, the 70s are back. And we’re here for it. Flare pants are an essential statement piece that makes the perfect choice for pairing with a denim jacket.
These days, you can find stretchy flares, denim flares, and even split hems (my personal favorite) nearly anywhere. Not to mention, you can easily dress them up or go the more casual route, and when you throw a denim jacket in the mix, your fit will thrive regardless.
Your Fav WFH Sweat-Set
Sweats are absolutely life. And a denim jacket paves the ideal path for bringing your well-worn jumpsuit set up a notch. Say hello to your newest airport outfit and goodbye to even the slightest discomfort.
Toss on a denim jacket over your comfy oversized tee-shirt and your trusty sweatpants. Tie it all in with some white sneakers and a baseball cap if you’re feeling extra lazy.
Or, for colder temperatures, wear a denim jacket over your sweatshirt and sweats.
A Jumper
Jumpers are all the rage this summer. They’re a super simple and easy outfit, and you don’t have to worry about finding pants and a shirt. Your outfit is together already. Not to mention, they look great with a denim jacket layered on top.
The various style options on the market make for an easy casual fit that’s also cute enough to grab brunch with the girls or spend your afternoon shopping.
Step into a wide-leg or jogger-style jumper to keep things low-key and comfortable. Then, simply toss on your denim jacket and a pair of white sneakers or some flats, and you’re ready to roll.
Or, for warmer days, try your denim jacket alongside a shorts romper to show off those legs.
White Crops
White jeans are super cute, and they look fabulous on everyone. But, do you know what makes them even better? When they’re cropped.
Cropped white jeans are the perfect summer bottom. They’re cool, cute, and go with absolutely anything, including a denim jacket for those chillier nights.
Pair your favorite white cropped pants with a cute tee or even a colorful blouse, and layer on an oversized denim jacket. Add in some charming strappy sandal heels, and you’re ready to paint the town red. (Or should we say white?)
Or, on warmer afternoons, try cute tank underneath and a statement belt to strap on those white pants. Add some cute hi-top sneakers, and off you go!
A Sundress
Who doesn’t love the perfect sundress? They’re simple and easy to style as they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. But, when the weather hasn’t quite warmed up to where you’re ready to bare those shoulders, a denim jacket can act as the perfect buffer between you and the spring breeze.
Layer your best sundress, whether it’s yellow, red, or even print, under a classic light-wash denim jacket and lace up some white sneakers. If you’re feeling it, toss your hair up in a bun or add a coordinating rancher hat to top it off.
Leather
If denim isn’t classic enough, leather can be a killer companion to take things up a notch (maybe even two). Everyone loves leather—faux or not. And your denim jacket deserves a sleek leather friend to help it stand out a bit.
Not to mention, if you’re tired of the same-old boring denim jacket get-ups that you’ve worn time and time again, adding in some leather is the best way to mix things up a bit.
Feeling bold? Try a pair of black leather leggings. Add on a vintage tee and a classic denim jacket. For extra rebellion, try out a vintage embellished denim with puff sleeves. Add some white or snakeskin booties, and you’ll be sure to turn some heads.
For a more feminine touch, try dark-wash denim with a leather mini skirt and a cute white tee. Finish the look off with a pair of white sneakers to keep things cute but low-key.
Denim-on-Denim
Whether you find Britney and Justin’s 2001 Canadian tuxedo look inspiring or cringeworthy, the denim-on-denim trend is absolutely in.
Have your own double-denim red carpet moment with your denim jacket and a classic pair of denim jeans or even a denim skirt. While it might be a little intimidating, don’t worry. Here’s how to do the double-denim fad right:
For a casual day at your local shops, try a pair of light-wash distressed mom jeans and a simple black and white striped tee. The trick is to keep one denim slightly darker than the other in a case like this. So, toss on a darker-wash denim jacket. Add in your favorite sneakers, and you’re off to the races.
Or, for a more sophisticated double-denim look, try a high-waisted denim mini skirt with an oversized white button-down tucked in. Add on a matching denim jacket and a pair of colorful pumps for some pop.
A Smocked Dress
Thought the smocked trend was only for youngsters? Think again. Smocked dresses are absolutely the cutest way to head to Sunday brunch, and they come in various styles. Whether you’re hoping for a fully-smocked knee-length dress or a flowy midi dress with a smocked top, we’re here for it.
Pair a casual floral smocked dress with your go-to denim jacket or even try it with a denim vest. Opt for some cute sandal flats or sneakers, and don’t forget a romantic handbag to tie everything together.
A Ruffle Skirt
Ruffles are probably the most fun thing in the fashion world these days and for a good reason. Ruffles are so cute, and they can add just the right amount of softness to nearly any outfit. Not to mention, they’re super lovely paired alongside denim.
Try out a tiered midi or maxi-length floral ruffle skirt. Or, if you’re hoping for more of a daring ensemble, opt for a leopard pattern. Tuck in a cute graphic tee for a laid-back day. Or for more of a dressy night out, slip into a satin tank and tuck it in. Pair the combo with the ideal belt, some statement boots, and tie it all in with your denim jacket.
An Oversized Tee
Oversized is basically always the way to go. Regardless of the season, an oversized tee will guide you directly where you need to be—whether it’s a casual occasion or not.
Grab your classic oversized white tee and slip into your comfy biker shorts with some white sneakers, and you’ve got the perfect casual look.
In cooler temps, pair your oversized graphic tee and denim jacket with distressed black jeans, and you’ve got the perfect out and about.
Conclusion
Never underestimate the power and style of a denim jacket. It’s timeless, classic, and will be there for you at all times—even while it hangs out in your closet for weeks on end, it’s there each time you reach for it.
And, if you pair it with any of these stellar looks, you’re sure to turn some heads. Nonetheless, you can never go wrong with your trusty denim jacket. Strap it on and take on the day; we support you.