7 Trendier Basics That Fashion People Are Wearing With Jeans Now

denim outfit with button down shirt and belt

(Image credit: @endlesslyloveclub)

Trends may come and go, but denim is forever. As style people, we wear our classic blue jeans multiple times a week and tend to lean on them whenever we can't think of something else to wear. Of course, they never really go out of style, but it doesn't take an expert eye to see they've taken a back seat to other items like tailored trousers and maxi skirts in recent months.

All that is to say I wouldn't be surprised if you found yourself in a rut when deciding what to wear with jeans to make them feel up to date. Naturally, I have a few ideas to make them feel fresh and, dare I say it, even on-trend for 2024. It all comes down to styling them with a few key items. Simple choices like accessories or shoes can make a world of difference. But don't just take my word for it. Keep scrolling to see proof.

Ahead, I'm sharing seven trendier items and styling ideas that solve the mystery of how to make jeans feel cool in 2024.

Scarf-Coats

denim styled with a scarf coat

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Scarf-coats are the coats of the colder seasons, so pairing one with jeans naturally makes for a very 2024 vibe.

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Ballet Flats With Socks

jeans styled with ballet flats

(Image credit: @annelauremais)

While ankle boots may be your first instinct to pair with jeans, ballet flats lend a French-inspired touch to the staple. To dress them up a tad more, layering a pair of socks or sheer tights is a fresh way to do it.

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Sweaters Over Tees

jeans styled with sweaters and a t-shirt

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

If a sweater and jeans is your go-to formula this time of year, adding a white T-shirt underneath your knit is an easy way to add interest and dimension to the look while keeping it casual.

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Skinny Belts

jeans styled with a white shirt

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

A quick way to add instant polish? Adding a classic leather belt. It's such a simple addition, but it really pulls a look together in seconds flat. Fashion people are wearing skinny belts more than any other kind, and they lend a refined feel to denim.

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Fitted-Waist Blazers

jeans outfits

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

A blazer and jeans is a combination that will go in the history books. It's as timeless as ever. That's why fashion people are freshening it up by opting for fitted-waist blazers that create an elegant silhouette.

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Burgundy Knits

jeans styled with a burgundy sweater

(Image credit: @leasy_inparis)

If you're going to reach for a pop of color, why not try something that feels especially fresh, like burgundy? Try an easy basic like a sweater to do so, whether you wear it as is or drape it over your shoulders.

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Crisp Shirting

jeans styled with a crisp shirt

(Image credit: @endlesslyloveclub)

Jeans, especially darker washes, feel more polished when you pair them with a business-casual element like a button-down shirt. It's also the perfect outfit to wear to the office (if jeans are allowed at yours).

Shop shirting:

This post was published at an earlier date and has been updated.

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Senior Editor

Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.