Figuring out how to style a denim shirt takes some trial and error. Why? We all know our way around jeans and denim skirts, but the ubiquitous blue fabric gets a little trickier to figure out as soon as it jumps somewhere else — especially to our tops. It’s worth putting in a little extra effort on this front, though: One of spring's biggest denim trends is the Canadian tuxedo, meaning you’ll get plenty of mileage out of a denim shirt in the months ahead. After all, it's the perfect way to layer up as we transition into summer.
While you might only think of denim shirts as cowboy-ready Westernwear — a valid association — that’s not the whole picture. Lightweight chambray shirts are breathable and great for layering, and they’re a cornerstone of preppy style, which is gaining momentum this season. Proper denim tops, meanwhile, are now available in classic shirting silhouettes, which look surprisingly put-together paired with trouser jeans or leather trousers. And you can even wear a denim jacket as a shirt on chillier days, making layering a breeze.
Here’s how to style a denim shirt this spring, according to our fashion editors.
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Short, long or midi – it's a piece that will transform your look in an instant.
1. Under a blazer
One of the easiest ways to elevate your denim shirt is to treat it like any other button-down and throw it under a blazer. Start with just a shirt and a nice-fitting jacket; when you feel confident in this look, feel free to try additional layering like in the outfit above. (Looks like there’s a plaid shirt and a tank top underneath the denim top — genius). You can always fall back on straight-leg jeans down below, though trousers that match your blazer or bring in another neutral tone will add even more polish to your final look.
A big theme of styling a denim shirt, as you will come to see, is mixing in even more denim. No longer a fashion faux pas, the full jeans look now reads as down-to-earth and effortlessly chic — as long as you get the proportions right. Try tucking a fitted top into wide-leg jeans, a silhouette that takes cues from menswear and feels just right for 2025. The key with a denim-on-denim look is a belt, which will break up the blue while defining your waist. If you’re headed to brunch, throw on some trendy sneakers and a shoulder bag; if you’re off to the office, try a trench coat and some slim loafers.
3. Over a leather skirt
In the mood to make a statement? A pussy bow instantly levels up a denim shirt, whether you go with wide-leg jeans, a tweed miniskirt, or tailored trousers, below. But perhaps our favourite pairing is a little more unexpected: a leather midi. The two textures contrast each other deliciously, a high-low pairing that looks luxe. You can go pretty much anywhere in this ensemble; low heels and a just-right leather bag will get you there in style.
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4. Between wool layers
Channel Nancy Meyers in this cosy outfit formula, which perfects the art of cold-weather layering. A faded denim shirt looks effortlessly classic and cool, sandwiched between a lightweight turtleneck and a luxe wool coat. Black boots and a bold belt tie the whole thing together, while keeping it from getting too nostalgic for the ’90s. You could copy the rest of the outfit above with a matching pencil skirt, but we’ll encourage you to freestyle with whatever else you have in your collection, too: denim skirts, barrel jeans, patterned trousers, sequinned midis, you name it.
Thanks to a few fresh details — barrel sleeves, an organic necklace, and heeled thong sandals—what could read as a prairie outfit instead serves city-ready style. While we love the detailing on the skirt above, all that really matters is the shape: ankle-length and elegant. Paired with a sculptural denim shirt or jacket, this makes an easy transitional-weather fallback. Swap out the sandals for ballet flats with knee-length socks when the weather gets cooler.
6. Under a statement jacket
Add some extra dimension to a denim-on-denim look with a pop of colour in the form of a fabulous coat. The exact silhouette is up to you; we’ll suggest a barn jacket, considering they’re everywhere right now. Just don’t be afraid to take a swing with your jacket’s shade. Sunny yellow will continue to trend through next spring, or you could also opt for rich purple, grass green, or all-over plaid for a similarly fashion-forward effect. You don’t need a Birkin, but you should invest in some chunky jewellery, which is shaping up for a big season.
One of the simplest ways to spice up your usual all-denim ensemble is to borrow from Scandi-girl street style with a sheer skirt. Waist-down layering is having a huge moment right now, and a lacy slip or sheer midi will lend just the right editorial edge to your trusty jeans. You can also tie a silk scarf, sarong, or button-down around your waist to achieve the same layered look. (Another idea: Try wearing your boxy short-sleeve top over a sleeveless dress during the transition from hot to cool weather.) A suede bag looks good with any denim, but we especially love the soft, slouchy pick here.
This article was originally published on Glamour US.
