When it comes to styling denim shirts, there are truly no real rules. Denim itself is considered a more casual fabric and so if you are choosing to wear a denim shirt or jacket, bare this in mind. I would not for example sport a denim shirt to a professional meting or a formal event. There are ways to make it less of a casual look and I would be showing you some of these outfits as well.
There are different types a well as different shades of denim. From dark wash denim shirts to a light chambray shirt to even a black denim shirt, there is quite the range. Whether you’re working with thick denim or a thinner alternative, this blog post would serve as a useful guide for denim shirt outfit ideas.
If you are seeking different ways to style a classic denim shirt or even a denim jacket, then you want to keep reading.
Before we dive into the various denim shirt outfits, I would like to share some of my favorite sites to find denim shirts. These would be useful if you are on the hunt for a new denim shirt or looking to add a different style of denim shirt (or denim jacket) to your wardrobe. With their versatility, a denim shirt could quickly become a wardrobe staple.
*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through the links, at no cost to you.
Where can I get a good denim shirt?
i) Banana Republic
Banana Republic is always a great site to check for good quality denim shirts. They usually offer both dark blue denim shirts as well as some light wash ones. This classic denim shirt is one that could easily be style with a blazer or with a pair of dark jeans for a full Canadian tuxedo. You could also create a nice contrast with your blue denim shirt by pairing it with denim jeans in a different wash.
ii) Old Navy
Old Navy brings us not only regular denim shirts and jackets but also gender-neutral gender shirts you and your significant other could wear to match outfits. This is good news for women who love to wear their boyfriends’ shirts but bad news for the men who are victims of this loving act.
Old Navy also carries a number of chambray shirts which are a great way to create an even more casual style with a denim shirt. I’m loving this gender-neutral denim jacket in a dark wash.
iii) Amazon
Amazon brings us denim shirts from some renowned names in the denim world such as Wrangler. This Wrangler denim shirt brings us full western denim with its spread collar and W stitching on the front pockets. You could either tuck it into your jeans or pants or you could tie the front for a more flirty and casual look.
Another easy idea you could use to give your denim shirt look some more swag is to roll up the sleeves. This instantly makes your outfit more youthful and fun.
iv) GAP
If you are looking for a medium was denim shirt, I encourage you to check out GAP. This oversized denim shirt would be so easy to pair with shorts, pants, jeans or skirts and comes with an affordable price tag. You could even wear it as light jacket on a summer day over a tank top and a pair of jeans.
Any of the sites listed above would have some great denim shirt options available at any given time of year. I invite you to check them out if you’re looking to add a denim shirt or 2 to your wardrobe. Now let’s talk about the different ways to style a denim shirt, whether it’s black or blue.
1) Denim shirt with skinny jeans
One of my favorite ways to wear a denim shirt is to pair it with skinny jeans. This is the ultimate double denim look and can be worn by anyone, irrespective of body type. You could tie your shirt in a knot and show a little skin if you’re headed to a very casual event.
If it’s a warm summer day and you’re wearing a denim shirt with long sleeves, roll your sleeves up to your elbows to add some more edge to your denim look.
Get the look HERE
You could pair your blue denim shirt with a pair of black jeans to create a contrasting denim look. The same goes for blue denim and a pair of white jeans. The white jeans would make the look less harsh and lighter and airier. This would be a great summer outfit if you’re headed to chic brunch. My personal preference however is blue denim pieces, both up and down. These could even be different shades of denim.
Complete your look with either a pair of white sneakers or ankle boots in a neutral color for a more polished look. Another way to style this look is by leaving your jean shirt unbuttoned and wearing a crop top or tank top underneath. This is a cute denim look you could wear to a Western spot for lunch or to check out a new local café with your friends.
2) Denim shirt with a midi skirt
When most of us think of midi skirts, black pencil skirts are what come to mind. One of the cool ways to style a denim shirt is to pair it with a midi skirt of your choice. You could opt for a black pencil skirt or a midi skirt in another color. You could read up more on styling a black pencil skirt on my post: 15 ideas on how to wear a black pencil skirt. Add some sass to your look by adding a belt around your waist.
Image source here
As blue denim is such a neutral color, you could easily pair it with a pencil skirt in a bright color to add a pop of color to your outfit. You could also go the neutral route and pair it with a white, brown or grey midi skirt. For footwear, you could throw on a pair of high feels for a fancier evening out. If not, flat sandals, flat ankle boots or a pair of sneakers is fine.
3) Denim shirt with shorts
To create some everyday wear with your denim shirt, consider pairing it with a pair of shorts on a war day. These could be denim shorts or shorts made of any other fabric. A light chambray shirt works great this very casual outfit you could wear for an outdoor picnic or to grab some bubble tea.
Add your favorite pair of sneakers and a crossbody bag and you are good to go. Remember to tie your shirt in the front for a flirtier look and to roll your sleeves up for a more laid-back vibe.
Get the look HERE
4) Denim shirt with maxi skirt
During the colder months, you can use a denim jacket or shirt as an extra layer of clothing. Start with a simple long-sleeved top or sweater and a denim shirt or jacket on top. Pair this with a maxi skirt and a pair of ankle boots for a chic Fall look.
Image source here
You could even wear a pair of leggings underneath for an extra layer of warmth. During the warmer months, ditch the sweater and opt for a chambray top to pair with your maxi skirt. Sandals, heels or sneakers work great for footwear. This look also works with a maxi dress whereby the denim shirt could be added to break things up.
More on styling maxi skirts without looking frumpy in this post this post HERE.
5) Denim shirt with mini skirt
The best way to style a denim shirt with a mini skirt is by opting for a fitted denim shirt. You mouth as well go all out with the sexiness in this outfit and show off your curves in a denim shirt that fits you just right. You could go with a black denim shirt or a blue one for this sexy look.
A pair of cowboy boots would really complete this flirty look or you could wear a pair of sandals. If it’s a little cold outside, add a leather jacket for warmth.
Image source here
6) Denim shirt with a tulle skirt
If you are looking for an eye-catching and fun way to style your denim shirt jacket, try pairing it with a tulle skirt. The tulle adds some playfulness to your outfit while the denim top adds a little more structure; the perfect balance. You could complete your look with a pair of pumps to give it more of a NYC vibe. If not, a pair of sandals or sneakers work fine.
Image source here
7) Denim shirt with wide-legged jeans
It isn’t just skinny jeans that look great with a denim shirt but wide-legged jeans as well. For a more Western look, pair your denim shirt with boot-cut jeans. If you tuck your shirt in, consider adding a wide belt on top to really bring your overall look together.
Image source Zara
Add your favorite ankle boots to complete your look and you’re ready for any country music concert. You could also wear a long-sleeved tee underneath your denim shirt during the colder weather.
8) Denim shirt with a denim skirt
Here we have another Canadian tuxedo. Whether you’re working with a mini denim skirt, a midi or a maxi one, adding a denim blouse is a great idea if you are creating a casual look. You could choose a different shade of denim for each clothing item to create a more interesting look.
In terms of footwear, ankle boots are a great option. Ballet flats or a pair of flip flops would also work nicely. An easy idea to accentuate your waist is to add a belt on top of your shirt.
Image source here
I hope from this post you have seen why a denim shirt or jacket would be a great addition to your wardrobe. Denim shirts are easy to pair with bottoms in different colors and styles. They add a chic casual vibe to any outfit and I hope you have gotten lots of outfit inspiration for the next time you pull out your denim shirt. It just might be your next wardrobe essential.
You should also check out my post: 10 ways to wear dark blue jeans for some more style inspiration.
Find out the best ways to wear a denim shirt dress.
If denim dresses are more your thing, check out my post on 7 ways to wear a denim dress.
I also have a post on 7 ways to wear a tulle skirt as an adult.
Until the next post,
XOXO
Theankaraqueen