How to Wear a Denim Jacket: Embrace This Timeless Classic!

Would you like to enhance 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’m here to help you.

As a fashion enthusiast, I see the denim jacket as a timeless, easy-to-wear, and very versatile garment. It’s perfect for adding flair and energy to a somewhat classic outfit, but it’s also an iconic piece of bohemian style.

Today, I'm sharing everything I know about the denim jacket, so that it holds no secrets for you anymore!

Timeless and infinitely customisable, the denim jacket can be worn with a variety of outfits, including light dresses, short denim or colourful skirts, or even a jumpsuit. It also pairs well with slightly lighter or darker denim trousers. Choose a denim jacket that flatters your body shape and team it up with clothes that reflect your style, to achieve a bohemian and feminine look that you can wear to work, on holiday, or even for a night out!

Would you like to know more? Keep reading to find out:

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

denim jacket for women

Denim, the ultimate 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 free societal norms and reconnect with nature, hippies reinvented the clothing of that era. This includes jeans, which originally were a durable work outfit reserved for labourers on construction sites.

This fabric, now timeless and found in most wardrobes, is a symbol of freedom and creativity. Wearing a denim jacket is a subtle nod to the fashion revolution that the hippie era represented. Additionally, it makes for a fantastic alternative to the leather biker jacket: it’s lighter and perfect for summer and the transitional seasons. Denim is made from cotton, which is a breathable and warm fabric that also blocks the wind! It’s truly a wardrobe essential! 😉

How to Choose the Right Denim Jacket?

There are various styles and shades of denim jackets available. In the following sections, I’ll provide a handy guide to help you find the jacket that will enhance your look!

denim jacket

Choose a cut that suits your body shape

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

➡️ If you have a slender build that is quite elongated and fairly straight, go for a straight cut.

➡️ If you have curvy figures, opt for a fitted cut at the waist.

Regarding the length of the jacket:

🔸 The cropped denim jacket is great for shorter individuals or those with shorter legs. It also works well if you’re wearing a fitted garment at the waist or a very short top, like a crop top.

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

🔸 The oversized jacket is set to be very trendy and will be perfect for those looking for loose-fitting clothing to wear with a bohemian style, for example.

short denim jacket

Choose a Colour that Flatters You

There are shades of jackets that range from light to dark. Light colours will be worn more during the summer, paired with lighter outfits. They will particularly enhance women with blonde and light brown hair, and they are ideal for highlighting a subtle tan.

Dark colours are quite versatile: they suit brunettes and redheads well, as well as those with a medium skin tone.

👉 If you're looking for a jacket to complement a smart outfit, I recommend going for a dark and understated jacket that will add elegance to your look.

3 Tips for Perfectly Matching a Denim Jacket

When you have a passion for fashion, mixing and matching your clothes to create original and stylish outfits becomes a true hobby! I'm sharing some of my best tips with you in the following 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 prioritising a printed top or dress with a few hints of blue that matches the shade of your denim jacket. This will add cohesion to your outfit, while showing that you pay attention to detail!

👉 A top with a liberty print featuring hints of blue is perfect to pair with your denim jacket!

Pay Attention to the Finishes

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

Create Colour Contrasts

If you wear your denim jacket with other denim garments or accessories, aim for contrast. All you need to do is mix different shades of denim! This simple tip helps to avoid the colour-block effect, which, when it comes to denim, can easily make you look like you're in a work uniform instead of a stylish outfit.

Levi's denim jacket

What dress should you wear with a denim jacket?

The denim jacket is a highly versatile piece of clothing that can be worn with a skirt, a jumpsuit, or, of course, a dress. If you choose to go with a dress, make sure to select it carefully, as it will define your style. Here are some options you can consider:

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

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

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

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

denim jacket dress

Which skirt to wear with a denim jacket?

With its relatively short cut, a denim jacket will look stunning paired with a skirt. This combination will give you a feminine and elegant look, no matter which skirt you choose from:

  • A long skirt (which can be pleated!),

➡️ Find out more details about this iconic boho style piece in our dedicated article!

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

➡️ Check out our guide on leather skirts!

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 big comeback in recent years, with the resurgence of mom and boyfriend jeans on the catwalks. These loose-fitting cuts will accentuate your silhouette, especially if you're on the taller side. However, any type of jeans can be paired with a denim jacket, including:

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

women in jeans outfit

👉 If it's warm, you can also wear your denim jacket with shorts made of the same material, a bit loose but short enough. It's perfect for those looking for a simple and comfortable look to enjoy a day off, go shopping, or hang out with friends!

What to Wear Under Your Denim Jacket?

As it’s uncommon to wear a buttoned denim jacket, the choice of top you'll wear underneath is crucial. Here are a few suggestions for you to adapt according to your style and the context in which you'll wear this outfit:

  • A pastel t-shirt, either plain or patterned, for a romantic and casual look,
  • A Breton striped top, a classic piece perfect for those wanting a subtle yet stylish outfit,
  • A brightly coloured top to create a lovely contrast,
  • A crop top for a super trendy outfit

➡️ This cropped top will be perfect paired with a loose boyfriend jeans, especially if you have a fairly slim figure.

  • A dark outfit for a stylish and feminine look

➡️ Create a sophisticated style with a well-fitted suit, paired with heels and a charming clutch. Then, add a touch of originality with a denim jacket!

women's denim jacket

The women's windbreaker is also a must-have!

In your wardrobe, it's essential to include several versatile pieces as they are reliable options. You should also look into how to wear a women's windbreaker while keeping up with the trends. Generally, windbreakers have a sporty connotation, but manufacturers have developed much more stylish options.

  • Sure, it protects you from the wind and rain, but it’s a fashionable piece that you’ll have no trouble coordinating with your outfit.
  • For instance, the windbreaker can be paired with tailored trousers, slim-fit jeans, or even a skirt.
  • You just need to consider the size, shape, and especially the length. There are long windbreakers that will cover a good portion of your body.

It will undoubtedly become your best friend, as it's easy to carry and, thanks to its stylish design, you can effortlessly match it with your outfit of the day. Depending on the model, you'll find styles suitable for spring/summer and autumn/winter. When it comes to colours, the options are extensive, so go for vibrant shades to elevate your look. Yellow, red, and blue are definitely trending!

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

In true hippie style, it’s totally possible to customise an outfit with an embroidered denim jacket. You can find them in stores already embroidered, but you can also personalise a classic jacket. The options are endless: floral or symbol embroidery, lace additions, handwritten inscriptions… You could even cut the sleeves off your denim jacket and replace them with lovely printed fabric sleeves!

custom embroidered denim jacket

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

Are you looking for denim jackets and bohemian clothing to create a unique look? I invite you to check out our online store, where you can find:

Need some inspiration? Explore unique ways to personalise your denim jacket. View Our Denim Jacket Inspirations