Denim Jacket Outfit Ideas + Styling Tips
Denim jackets are a classic wardrobe layer for good reason: they’re made of everyone’s favorite accessible fabric, they pair with so many different types of outfits and they’re durable, which makes them a great investment.
Whether you’re heading to a fabulous brunch on a rooftop or you’re gearing up for a summer concert with friends, denim jackets are truly a closet staple.
Today, I’m sharing a variety of ways to wear this timeless style. I’ll also cover ideas for how to style them, share the different silhouettes you may want to buy, and lay out all of the most popular washes to help you find the best denim jacket for you.
To bring these tips to life, I've included 17 photos of jean jacket outfits I’ve worn over the years for more inspiration.
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Denim Jacket Outfit Ideas + Styling Tips
A-Line Skirt and White T-Shirt
For a simple and preppy look, try a schoolgirl style skirt and a plain white tee. You can always layer some necklaces or wear a colorful shoe to change the styling.
Black Skinny Jeans and Colorful Bag
This denim jacket had lots of fringe along the back, which really did most of the talking so I paired it with black skinny jeans. Adding the red purse turned the volume up.
Gray Wash Denim and White Accessories
I love my white denim jacket because it’s a way to wear my favorite layer without adding an additional color to my outfit. For this look I kept things simple with gray wash denim and accessories that matched the jacket.
White Mini Skirt and Sneakers
For a look that is just as practical as it is cute, I love pairing a true blue denim jacket with other wardrobe staples. This white denim mini skirt allowed me to repeat the jean fabric without going full Canadian tuxedo, and you can explore all you want in comfy sneakers.
Canadian Tuxedo Vibes
If you want to pair denim on denim together, I definitely recommend keeping the rest of the outfit simple. Here, I just added a white t-shirt and sneakers, plus some baby blue hair clips to match the rest of the look.
Mixing Denim Washes
Denim on denim can look great if you find two items in the same wash. However, if you’re going to mix washes, I recommend pairing a light wash or true blue denim with a darker wash denim or a jean fabric that is either black or white.
Knit Mini Dress
If you’re looking for a slightly dressier outfit to wear with a jean jacket, consider pairing your go-to layer with a mini dress. This one in a knit fabric still works for daytime, but if you wear a dress in silk or a satin, it’s perfect for an evening summer dinner date.
Maxi Dress and Cowboy Boots
Are you loving Western-inspired silhouettes right now? You’re not alone—so try styling your denim jacket with a maxi dress and a pair of cowboy boots for an extra bit of flair.
Floral Mini Dress and Ankle Boots
When it comes to dressing in between seasons, a denim jacket can be a lifesaver. However if it’s still a bit too cold for sandal weather, consider breaking out the ankle boots with a spring-y dress so even half of your body can embrace the changing weather.
Stylish Shorts and Low-Heels
Another idea for dressing up a jean jacket is to pair it with a chic pair of shorts and some low strappy sandals. For this outfit, try a jacket featuring a black or white denim wash for a chic ‘fit.
Polka Dot Dress and Sneakers
This right here is an ideal weekend outfit for me. Cute midi dress in a fun pattern + cropped denim jacket + comfy sneakers? I’m good to go for any activity that appears: errands, brunch, picnic in the park, brewery meet-up.
A-Line Dress and Sneakers
I love a mini dress is one of my go-to silhouettes when it comes to cute summer outfits, particularly with an A-Line silhouette where I feel super comfortable. This silhouette pairs well with a cropped denim jacket and you could style it with sneakers, heels or even ankle boots depending on your plans.
Colorful Midi Dress and Neutral Heels
I loved wearing this pink midi dress with a white jean jacket when we went to Napa a few years back. It was the perfect outfit for exploring wineries and relaxing in the sunshine.
Graphic T-Shirt and Skinny Jeans
You’ve probably been scrolling waiting for me to mention what is essentially the peanut butter and jelly of the sartorial world which is the denim jacket and graphic tee outfit combo. This one is such a no-brainer, so definitely add it to your rotation.
Leather Mini Skirt and Oversized Sunglasses
I think I wore some variation of this outfit formula every week when I was an editor at Nylon—a leather mini skirt, t-shirt of your choice and a pair of oversized sunglasses was an instant Cool Girl Outfit in my 22-year old opinion (and one that I still stand by today).
Distressed Jeans and a T-Shirt
One of my favorite styling tips for denim is to pair distressed denim with a much more polished one. This studded denim jacket was a favorite of mine when I first moved to NYC because of how edgy and fun it was, especially when paired with more casual pieces.
Dark Denim
You can wear denim on denim without going full Britney—consider pulling double duty but in a black denim wash for a more polished take on this classic outfit.
How to dress up a denim jacket
One of the reasons we love denim jackets so much is because they are super versatile. Here are some chic ways to elevate your look when styling this wardrobe staple.
Pair with high-end fabrics
When it comes to adding that extra dose of sophistication to your denim jacket outfits, consider pairing them with tops or bottoms in satin, silk or leather.
Call in the heels
Sneakers are a go-to when it comes to styling denim, but try swapping your favorite lace-ups for a pair of heels. Whether it’s a chic kitten heel or a pair of ankle boots this will instantly give your outfit some added oomph.
Statement accessory
A bold, eye-catching bag or a chunky necklace can also elevate your denim jacket ‘fit from something simple to something stunning. Turn to your favorite accessories to bring the heat.
Different denim jacket styles
When you picture a denim jacket in your mind, what do you think of? Jean jackets come in plenty of shapes and styles so you’ll be sure to find one that truly suits your vibe.
Fitted: Want a sleek and polished look? Choose a fitted silhouette that will pair perfectly with midi dresses and cute sandals for a go-to weekend outfit.
Oversized: You’ll find an oversized denim jacket delivers an immediate cool-factor to whatever outfit you’re wearing. Picture this one worn with your favorite graphic tee and a pair of sunglasses.
Cropped: Your favorite high-waisted pants and skirts will pair perfectly with a cropped jean jacket. It’s all about balance with this cute style.
Find your perfect denim wash
It’s true that denim jackets come in many shapes and sizes, but they can also come in pretty much any color or pattern you can think of as well.
True blue denim
For the wardrobe minimalist, you can’t go wrong with a classic blue denim jacket. It’s the perfect layering piece for casual dinners, weekend errands and fun hangouts with friends.
Light wash denim
Are you currently loving relaxed, vintage styles? Light wash denim is the move for that well-loved look. I tend to break mine out most during the spring and summer months and love to pair it with white and pastel pieces.
Black denim
For an edgier look, opt for a black denim jacket. Not only is this jacket perfect for restaurants and bars because if you stain it no one will be able to tell, but it's chic and pairs well with fun accessories like hoop earrings or a studded purse.
White denim
Fresh and clean, a white denim jacket will give you that “I spend my summers in the Hamptons'' aura. This wash is ideal for warmer months or paired with a monochrome outfit.
Printed denim
For the girl (or guy!) who is looking for a more trendy option, consider picking up a jean jacket with a fun print or pattern on it. From florals to logos repping your favorite cities or sports teams, there’s so much to choose from.
Other fun washes to consider:
Distressed: some areas of wear will give your jacket that effortless look
Fringe: if you’re heading to a music festival or love Western-inspired silhouettes
Colored: from Barbie pink to Giants blue, let your true colors shine
I hope you found these tips and outfit ideas helpful.
Leave a comment and let me know if you plan to incorporate these tips into your wardrobe and see how a simple denim jacket can elevate your outfits.
yours,
Austen
Read this next: Styling Outfits with Light Wash Denim