How to Style a Denim Jacket: Embrace this Timeless Classic!

Would you like to elevate your everyday outfits with a denim jacket, but are unsure how to style this fashion piece? Are you looking for a denim jacket cut that flatters your figure?

I'll help you.

As a fashion enthusiast, I view the denim jacket as a timeless piece, easy to wear and incredibly versatile. It's perfect for adding flair and energy to a slightly classic outfit, but it’s also an iconic item of bohemian style.

Today, I'm sharing everything I know about the denim jacket, so you'll have no secrets left about it!

Timeless and endlessly customisable, the denim jacket can be teamed with a variety of outfits, such as light dresses, short denim or colourful skirts, or even a jumpsuit. It also pairs nicely with jeans in slightly lighter or darker shades. Choose a denim jacket that flatters your shape, and combine it with clothes that reflect your style for a bohemian and feminine look, perfect for the office, holidays, or a night out!

Want to know more? Keep reading to discover:

  • Where this garment comes from and why it's perfect for your wardrobe,
  • What type of denim jacket to choose to enhance your silhouette,
  • Tips for selecting the colour of your jacket and coordinating it perfectly,
  • Ideas for feminine and elegant outfits featuring a dress, skirt, or trousers,
  • And how to create a unique look by personalising your denim jacket!

women's denim jacket

The jean: the quintessential bohemian chic trend

As you may already know, the bohemian chic style draws its inspiration from the outfits worn by hippies in the United States during the 1960s. With a desire to break free from societal norms and reconnect with nature, hippies reinvented the clothing of that era. One example is denim, which originally served as a durable workwear for labourers on construction sites.

This fabric, now a timeless staple in most wardrobes, is a symbol of freedom and creativity. Wearing a denim jacket is a subtle nod to the fashion revolution of the hippie era. Furthermore, it’s a fantastic alternative to a leather biker jacket: it’s lighter and just right for summer and mid-season. Denim is made from cotton, which is a breathable and warm fabric that also blocks the wind! So, it’s definitely a wardrobe essential! 😉

How to Choose the Right Denim Jacket?

There are various cuts and shades of denim jackets. In the following lines, I'll provide you with a handy guide to help you find the jacket that will truly enhance your style!

denim jacket

Choose a Style that Suits Your Body Shape

Many stylists have reinterpreted the denim jacket, giving it new shapes and adapting it to suit all styles and body types. Here are some tips to help you choose the cut that will enhance your look:

➡️ If you have a slim figure that is quite lean and straight, go for a non-fitted cut.

➡️ If you have curvy shapes, go for a cut that is fitted at the waist.

Regarding the length of the jacket:

🔸 The short denim jacket flatters those who are petite or have shorter legs. It’s also a great choice if you’re wearing a fitted top at the waist or a very short top, like a crop top.

🔸 If you're tall with long legs, the long jacket will suit you perfectly. It will also enhance outfits that flatter you, such as low-rise dresses or skirts.

🔸 The oversized jacket will be on-trend and is perfect for those seeking oversized clothing to pair with a bohemian style, for instance.

short denim jacket

Choose a Colour That Suits You

There are shades of jackets in both light and dark colours. Light colours will be worn more often in summer, paired with light outfits. They will particularly enhance women with blonde and light brown hair and are perfect for highlighting a soft tan.

Dark colours are a bit more versatile: they suit brunettes and redheads really well, as well as those with olive skin tones.

👉 If you're on the lookout for a jacket to complement a smart outfit, I'd suggest opting for a dark and understated jacket, as it will add a touch of elegance to your appearance.

3 Tips for Perfectly Pairing a Denim Jacket

When you’re passionate about fashion, putting together clothes to create original and stylish outfits is a real hobby! I’ll share some of my top tips with you in the next paragraph! 😊

oversized denim jacket

Create reminders with blue details

The denim jacket goes well with all colours, which makes it so versatile! However, to achieve the perfect look, I recommend opting for a top or a printed dress with a few touches of blue that echo the shade of your denim jacket. This will create coherence in your outfit while showing that you pay attention to the details!

👉 A top with a liberty print featuring hints of blue would be perfect to wear with your denim jacket!

Pay Attention to the Finishing Touches

For a polished look, consider matching the buttons on your jacket to the colour of the jewellery you wear most often: gold, silver, or even copper... The finishing touches will bring cohesiveness to your outfit, giving you a very stylish appearance.

Create Colour Contrasts

If you're wearing your denim jacket with other denim clothing or accessories, make sure to create some contrasts. To do this, simply mix different denim shades! This straightforward tip helps to avoid the colour-block effect, which with denim can quickly come off looking like a work uniform rather than a stylish outfit.

Levi's denim jacket

What dress pairs well with a denim jacket?

The denim jacket is a very versatile piece of clothing that you can wear with a skirt, a jumpsuit, or of course, a dress. If you choose the latter, be sure to select it carefully, as it will set the tone for your style. Here are a few options you might consider:

  • A long, flowing dress cinched at the waist, perfect for those with a bohemian style,
  • A white dress, ideal for summer days.

➡️ It will pair particularly well with a light jacket, giving a holiday vibe to your outfit. This ensemble is increasingly being chosen by brides-to-be who are looking for a modern and vibrant look!

  • A black dress for a rock 'n' roll look.

➡️ Pair it with accessories that highlight your grunge style: fishnet tights, studded ankle boots, …

denim jacket dress

What skirt to wear with a denim jacket?

With a relatively short length, a denim jacket pairs beautifully with a skirt. This combination will give you a feminine and elegant look, no matter which type of skirt you choose from:

  • A long skirt (it can be pleated too!),

➡️ Discover more details about this iconic boho piece in our dedicated article!

  • A short plain or patterned mini skirt for a glamorous and feminine style,
  • A short leather skirt to mix up textures and add depth to your outfit.

➡️ Check out our guide to wearing a leather skirt!

denim jacket skirt

Dare to go for the full denim look with a pair of jeans!

This iconic style from the 90s has made a comeback in recent years, with the resurgence of mom and boyfriend jeans on the runways. These relaxed fits will accentuate your figure, especially if you’re tall. However, any type of jeans can be paired with a denim jacket, including:

  • A pair of raw blue jeans or coloured denim,
  • A straight bootcut jean with prints,
  • A classic black slim fit jean for a simple and stylish outfit,
  • A white jean, perfect for summer holiday days!

woman in jeans

👉 If it's warm, you can also wear your denim jacket with a pair of shorts in a similar fabric, slightly loose but short enough. This look is perfect for those seeking a simple and comfortable outfit to enjoy a relaxing day, go shopping, or hang out with friends!

What to Wear Under Your Denim Jacket?

As it's quite uncommon to wear a closed denim jacket, choosing the top you wear underneath is crucial. Here are a few suggestions that you can personalise according to your style and the occasion for which you're wearing this outfit:

  • A pastel t-shirt, either plain or printed, for a romantic and casual look,
  • A breton shirt, a classic top that's perfect for those who want a subtle yet stylish vibe,
  • A brightly coloured top to create a lovely contrast,
  • A crop top for a super trendy outfit

➡️ This cropped top will be perfect with a loose boyfriend jean, especially if you have a relatively slim figure.

  • A dark jumpsuit for a smart and feminine look

➡️ Elevate your style with a well-fitted suit, paired with high heels and a lovely clutch bag. Then, add a touch of uniqueness with a denim jacket!

women's denim jacket

The women's windbreaker is an absolute must-have!

In your wardrobe, it's essential to have a variety of clothing, as these are reliable staples. You should also find out how to wear a women's windbreaker while keeping up with the trends. Generally, it has a sporty connotation, but manufacturers have created much more stylish options.

  • Sure, it keeps you protected from the wind and rain, but it's also a trendy piece that you can easily match with your outfit.
  • For instance, the windbreaker can be paired with tailored trousers, slim or mom jeans, or even a skirt.
  • Just pay attention to the fit, shape, and especially the length. There are long windbreakers that will cover a good part of your body.

It will undoubtedly be your best friend; it's easy to carry and, thanks to its elegance, you can easily adapt it to your daily look. Depending on the style, you'll find options for spring/summer as well as autumn/winter. When it comes to colours, the selection is vast, so choose vibrant shades to elevate your style. Yellow, red, and blue are definitely in trend!

The embroidered denim jacket: a chic and bohemian detail that makes all the difference

In a truly bohemian style, it’s entirely feasible to customise an outfit with an embroidered denim jacket. You can find ready-made embroidered jackets in shops, or you could embellish a classic jacket yourself. The options are endless: flower or symbol embroidery, lace additions, calligraphic inscriptions… You can even cut the sleeves off your denim jacket and replace them with lovely printed fabric sleeves!

personalised embroidered denim jacket

I hope this article has provided you with plenty of tips on how to incorporate the denim jacket into your summer and mid-season wardrobe. It’s a piece that offers loads of possibilities!

Are you on the lookout for denim jackets and bohemian clothing to create a unique look? I invite you to take a look at our specialised online shop, where you can find:

  • Embroidered or plain denim jackets,
  • Stylish dresses and skirts,
  • Trendy tops to match,
  • And plenty of other fashionable accessories for bohemian ladies!

Need a bit of inspiration? Explore imaginative ways to personalise your denim jacket. Check Out Our Denim Jacket Ideas