how to style a denim jacket!
Going to share all my tips on how to style a denim jacket – it’s one of my closet staples!
is there anything more classic and timeless than a denim jacket?
My closet has seen a LOT of changes over the years – from platform shoes to padded shoulders, from gaucho pants (IYKYK) to skinny jeans.
But there are pieces that – regardless of age, season or fad – will always have a place in my wardrobe. These are staples that carry over through multiple seasons, can be dressed up or down, and never go out of style. Here are some of my favorite pieces:
- a white button down
- a trench coat
- “Audrey” style black pants
- ballet flats
And a denim jacket.
SHOP THE LOOK!
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but not just ANY denim jacket!
I have had – I kid you not – the same denim jacket for over 20 years. I think the only piece of clothing I own that’s older is a sweater my Grandma Fay made for me when I was in college. I got it at Old Navy, spent less than $30, and it remains one of the hardest working pieces in my wardrobe.
So what’s so special about this jacket? To start, it’s clearly well-made – it has held up for a LOT of years, a lot of travel and a lot of washes. But what I love most is the cut and fit.
As you can see in the pictures, this denim jacket is slim and fitted – and that is what I think makes it so versatile, and so very loved.
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a slim cut means this jacket can multi-task!
While the classic denim jacket (whether it’s black denim, blue denim, distressed denim, etc.) is typically a bit oversized and somewhat casual in cut and feel, this jacket “steps up” beautifully. Frankly, I think it’s perfect, and I was so excited when Cindy, Mary Ann and Annie asked me to participate in this round up on how to style it!
outfit ideas!
Seeing is believing, so I pulled together some of my favorite outfit ideas, to show you how many ways this particular style of jacket can be worn!
it’s giving 90’s
All things 90’s have been trending for a while, and this is my take – layering the denim jacket over a plain or graphic tee and a slip skirt.
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dressed up
One of my go-to outfit formulas is to mix plain and fancy. I love the balance of these metallic pants (purchased years ago from Madewell) with a white or black button down; the jean jacket takes it down a notch further, but the cut of the jacket is what keeps it stylish.
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as a layer
This jacket’s slim cut means that it is not limited to just being outerwear. Here it’s layered under a warmer coat – functional AND fashionable!
coat (similar)/pants (similar)
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as a shirt
I will sometimes wear this piece as a shirt – buttoning it up and pairing with wide leg pants for balance.
pants (similar)/shoes (similar)
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my live-in summer jacket
I will throw this jacket over everything all summer long – it plays just as nicely with a simple sundress as it does with white jeans and sneakers!
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t-shirt (similar)/jeans/sneakers
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sweater weather
But it also sails right into fall, over a slim sweater or long-sleeve tee!
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classic never fails!
And of course you can never go wrong with pairing your jacket with other wardrobe staples such as a button down shirt, slim black pants and ballet flats.
SHOP THE LOOK!
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what to look for when picking a denim jacket!
There are about a bajillion denim jackets out there – of course your own style and preference will guide you. If you’re going to shop for a style similar to mine (I’ve linked to two in this post), here’s what to look for:
- a medium to dark wash – a lighter wash will be more limiting, both in styling and seasonally. Stick to medium to darker washes.
- a bit of stretch – even just a bit of stretch will make this fitted cut so much more comfortable to wear, especially if you’re layering.
- simple styling – for this particular style of jean jacket I’d steer clear of holes, distressing or any adornments. You’ll get the most versatility if you keep it simple!
Be sure to check out all the other posts in this round up – so many great ideas from these super stylish ladies!
CINDY HATTERSLEY DESIGN
CLASSIC CASUAL HOME
MOST LOVELY THINGS
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18 Comments
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Hi! I'm Sheri!
Welcome to my little corner of the web where you’ll find easy, delicious recipes, the best kitchen hacks and simple tips for turning your home into a clean haven that is free of toxins. So glad you’re here!
Sheri,
I’m packing for a trip to California and have gotten so many great ideas from you. Thanks for doing this with us!!!
Thank you Mary Ann – I LOVE doing these posts with you ladies and this one was so much fun! Have a great time in California! xoxo
I love how you’ve style your denim jackets, Sheri. Simple and chic. I’m now on the hunt for slip skirt to wear with my denim jackets.
Thank you Jennifer! I am so flattered. I actually have that skirt in a green color too that is SO pretty!
Sheri
Love all of your ideas but especially the unexpected glitzy pants. Such a great combo. I always love an unexpected mix…Oh and that black dress darling too! Thanks so much for joining us!!
Thank you Cindy! I love the unexpected mix! Thank YOU so much for including me! xoxo
Sheri, you have put together some really cute looks with your denim jacket! I love my denim jacket but I really don’t use it too often. The How to style a denim jacket feature with all of you lovely ladies is so inspiring! Also, it’s so nice to see a little more of your style and especially your smiling face!
Aw thanks Ginger! You know I don’t really like showing my face so I appreciate this so much! xoxo
Came over from Most Lovely Things, Annie’s blog. I was hoping to find a denim jacket without pockets on the bosom…. perhaps that style has never been made. The pockets on the bosom is what keeps me from not buying one. Your outfits are very comfortable looking.
Thanks so much! I agree that must be a challenge to find! I’ll take a look and send you a link if I come across one!
Sheri! I really can’t decide which look is my favorite! I love it as a layer, and as a shirt! You really did manage to find the perfect jacket with the perfect fit! I can’t believe it’s old navy!
You look amazing and you certainly showed how versatile a Jean jacket can be!!
Xx
Thank you Annie! I literally live in this jacket and don’t know what I’ll do if something ever happens to it!! Old Navy, right?? xo
Love every single look you shared and so happy to find you through Cindy’s post. I look forward to seeing more of your lovely style recommendations!
WOW! Thank you so much! I mostly stay in the “food” world so this was so much fun for me to put together!
I love how you elevate the denim jacket from a wardrobe afterthought to an enduring essential! Your mention of owning the same jacket for over 20 years—from Old Navy, no less—really drove home the idea of timeless style and value. The tips you share are such gems: choosing a medium-to-dark wash, opting for a subtle stretch for layering, and keeping the design clean and simple for maximum versatility. This guide is both nostalgic and practical—thanks for making the denim jacket feel like a cherished classic!
I absolutely loved your post about styling a denim jacket. it’s such a classic piece that never goes out of style! I’ve always adored how a blue denim jacket can make any outfit look effortlessly chic. And speaking of blue, it actually reminded me of my own favorite my Toronto Blue Jays jacket! I’m such a big fan of the team, and every time I wear it, it gives me that fun, sporty, and confident feeling I just love.
Love it.
Thank you! 🙂