Chic and casual: How to nail the denim on denim look

Denim on denim look. (Photo/Felix Kavii)

Rules were meant to be broken when it comes to an effortlessly cool, classic denim on denim pieces.

Denim on denim, has made a bold comeback in recent years. Once considered a fashion faux pas, wearing double denim has evolved into a trend celebrated for its laid-back and stylish appeal.

When done thoughtfully, denim on denim can be a staple look, effortlessly transitioning from casual to polished with a few style adjustments.

One of the simplest ways to make denim on denim work is to play with contrasting shades. Mixing lighter and darker washes creates visual depth, keeping the outfit from appearing overly uniform.

For example, a light-wash denim shirt paired with dark indigo jeans gives off a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, while a dark denim jacket over light-wash jeans provides a fresh, modern twist.

The contrast ensures each piece stands out, making the ensemble look thoughtfully curated rather than overly matched.

Alternatively, a monochromatic denim look can be equally striking, as long as you pay attention to the details. For a sleek, unified appearance, choose similar washes that lean either all-dark or all-light. Black on black, for instance, creates an edgy, cohesive look perfect for day-to-night wear.

A monochrome approach allows accessories or layering pieces to stand out, adding dimension without overpowering the outfit.

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A well-executed denim-on-denim look often involves a combination of different fits and textures. For instance, pairing a fitted denim shirt with relaxed, wide-leg jeans adds a sophisticated twist to the outfit’s silhouette, while slim-fit jeans paired with an oversized denim jacket offer a trendy, balanced look.

The difference in silhouettes creates a structured yet effortless style, bringing the outfit together in a chic, modern way.

Incorporating various denim textures also prevents the outfit from appearing too flat. Distressed jeans, frayed hems, and embellished denim can add layers of interest to the overall look

For example, pairing a vintage-washed, distressed denim jacket with clean-cut dark jeans achieves the perfect blend of rugged and refined. Embroidered patches, subtle prints, or even a hint of sheen on denim pieces can introduce extra personality and flair to the outfit, enhancing its style appeal.

Modern denim offers a vast array of washes and colours, enabling you to get creative with your denim-on-denim combinations.

While classic blue remains timeless, shades like black, grey, and even white denim can add versatility and freshness to this style.

For instance, pairing a grey denim jacket with black jeans creates a sophisticated, understated palette that still feels cohesive with the denim-on-denim concept. In warmer seasons, light or white denim is a fantastic choice for a breezy, fresh look.

Beyond color, consider other wash variations. Light-wash, dark-wash, and even bleached denim pieces can introduce unique elements that make a denim-on-denim look feel new.

Coloured denim options, such as earth tones or pastels, can offer a creative twist for those who enjoy experimenting with fashion.

Accessorizing is essential to elevate a denim-on-denim look. Bold belts, chunky jewelry, and patterned scarves can bring color and texture to the outfit, making it look polished and complete.

A leather or suede belt, for example, breaks up the denim and introduces a refined touch. Metallic or colorful accessories add an eye-catching contrast, balancing the casual feel of denim with more striking elements.

Footwear also plays a crucial role in completing the look. Sneakers or flat sandals work well for a casual, easy-going vibe, while heeled boots or pointed-toe pumps bring sophistication to the ensemble.

Ankle boots in neutral tones like tan, brown, or black are versatile choices, subtly enhancing the outfit without taking attention away from the denim itself.