How to style a denim jacket
Three men's denim jacket outfits: over a hoodie, with chinos and a shirt, and smart with an all-black base, including how to do double denim right.
A denim jacket is a light layer that adds instant casual cool. It's tougher than a cardigan and lighter than a coat, which makes it perfect for spring and autumn.
The main styling question is what to wear on your legs. Chinos and black trousers are easy; jeans need a different wash to avoid looking like a uniform.
3 ways to wear denim jacket
Street Layers
- TopGrey marl hoodie
- LayerMid-wash denim jacketthe star piece
- BottomBlack slim joggers
- ShoesWhite leather sneakers
A hoodie under a denim jacket is a classic streetwear layer. Black joggers keep the lower half clean so the jacket stands out.
Tip Choose a hoodie that's slightly shorter than the jacket so the hem doesn't hang below it.
Smart-Casual
- TopWhite oxford shirt
- LayerDark-wash denim jacketthe star piece
- BottomStone chinos
- ShoesBrown suede loafers
A dark denim jacket over an oxford shirt and chinos replaces a blazer for a more relaxed smart look.
Tip Dark, rinsed denim with no fading looks the smartest.
Double Denim, Done Right
- TopWhite crew-neck T-shirt
- LayerLight-wash denim jacketthe star piece
- BottomDark indigo jeans
- ShoesTan suede boots
Double denim works when the washes clearly contrast: light on top, dark below. A white tee separates them.
Tip Never match the jacket and jeans exactly; at least two shades of difference is the rule.
The rules
- The jacket should end at the belt line; longer styles look dated.
- For double denim, contrast the washes and break them up with a white or grey layer.
- Black, stone, olive and grey trousers are the easiest pairings.
- Size it to fit over a T-shirt or light knit, not a thick jumper.
Skip these
- Identical denim washes top and bottom
- Oversized jackets that hang past the hips
- Formal suit trousers
More style guides
- White sneakersWhat to wear with white sneakersThree easy outfits built around white sneakers, from weekend denim to a sharp blazer look, plus the rules that keep white trainers looking smart.
- Navy blazerHow to style a navy blazerThree ways to wear a navy blazer, from the office to the weekend, with the colours and shoes that work best alongside it.
- Black jeansWhat to wear with black jeansBlack jeans outfit ideas for women: a relaxed weekend look, a smart office outfit and an evening look, with tips on colours and shoes.