7 Easy Ways to Dress Up Your Jeans

We’d hazard a guess that jeans are the most versatile item in your closet. That’s probably why, if you’re anything like us, you own several (mmm… make that at least seven) pairs in a variety of silhouettes and colors. And while you may wear them from meetings to cocktails and everything in between, it’s easy to find yourself in a style rut when it comes to inventive ways of styling the staple. As the seasons turn from sweltering to crisp and cool, how do you transition your denim to cater to the chillier months ahead?
We’ve turned to our favorite street style set for inspiration, in case you find yourself in need of an inventive refresh. From simple white blouses pairings to innovative layering with this season’s must-have trends, scroll below to get those creative jean juices flowing.
White Blouse + Statement Shoes
Style Notes: The simple yet sophisticated combination of straight-leg jeans paired with a billowy white blouse and statement accessories is always a winner. Try this season’s trending snakeskin shoes or a bold and bright pair to amp up your outfit.
Leopard Print
Style Notes: Leopard print is one of the most prominent trends of summer and fall. Luckily, the wild print pairs perfectly with denim. Try a slip dress layered over your jeans (layer a turtleneck underneath in cooler months) or opt for a silky leopard-print blouse with a pair of high-waisted jeans. Keep the rest of your accessories pared back in neutral tones, and finish the look with gold hoops.
Plaid Blazer
Style Notes: The easiest way to add polish to your jean outfit is with the addition of a plaid or check blazer. This season the heritage print is back in all shapes and colors. Opt for a plaid in a vibrant hue for a statement look, or keep it subtle and sophisticated in a grey or Autumnal earthy brown shade.
White & Neutrals From Head to Toe
Style Notes: Is there anything more crisp, classic, and sophisticated than an all-white look? White cropped jeans are an elegant option year-round and look chic when worn with a staple white tee. Just break up the look with tan accessories. This is the perfect outfit to transition between seasons; simply add a beige toned blazer as the temps start to cool.
Graphic Tee + Colorful Accessories
Style Notes: An edgy graphic tee plus lappings of gold and rainbow-colored jewelry is clearly a combination fashion girls love. Add extra dimension to the look with a chic bright bag and belt.
Polka-Dot Blouse + Barely There Sandals
Style Notes: A polka-dot blouse is the chicest way to take your outfit from day to night in style. For fancy evenings out, simply add this season's trendy barely there sandals (wear with opaque tights when it gets cooler) and a polished, structured purse.
Cowboy Boots
Style Notes: Western style is huge this fall, and the easiest way to integrate the trend into your outfit is with a cool pair of cowboy boots. Wear them with your slim jeans, a tee, and a high-shine coat (also trending).
Up next: six fall trends I can't wait to wear.
Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
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