Denim jackets have been studded, fringed, bedazzled and adorned with many a Duran Duran pin. They’ve been shrunken and oversized; cuffed and sleeveless; dark, faded, bleached and dyed. They may get a new twist each season, but they always, always seem to be in style.
But pairing your jean jacket with jeans? Now, that’s a tricky one. Two words: Canadian tuxedo. Shudder. But we saw denim tops paired with denim bottoms on a deluge of spring runways – from Ralph Lauren and Banana Republic to D&G and Chloé. And have you seen Gap’s latest campaign? It’s all chambray shirts with jeans, denim vests with jeans, denim biker jackets with jeans. Oh, yes, denim is having it’s day.
Here are some denim details to look for while shopping for spring:
Beyond jackets and jeans: “The denim vest is making its mark this spring,” Connolly says. “It’s a fresh take on the jacket and can be worn over a tank, a tee or even a long sleeve top at night, instantly creating a cool downtown vibe. Or pair it over a button-down shirt for a more preppy take.”
“Denim shorts are a trend not to be missed, especially the roll-up style,” Ross tells StyleList. “These are great paired with something unexpected like blazer or pretty floral top — it is the perfect juxtaposition. We’re also seeing denim a lot in accessories this spring – bags and shoes are adorable in denim.”
“Denim tops are also on trend this season — button-down versions have been spotted all over,” Connolly says. “The denim dress has also been seen everywhere — Forever 21 has a great strapless version. Slip on a cardigan or blazer and you’re all set.”
The jacket racket: “Deconstructed and heavily washed denim is in right now, which gives jackets a vintage feel,” says Lizzie Ross, women’s merchandise manager for Old Navy. “Both shrunken and classic silhouettes are still current. Gray denim is the newest trend in colors.”
“Denim jackets are a great alternative to the everyday blazer,” Connolly says. “Don’t be afraid to try something new — white denim always looks crisp and fresh. A distressed denim version gives off that ’80s vibe. But if that acid-washed look gives you flashbacks, try a more classic version with a cool pair of shorts or a skirt.”
“This spring, we’re obsessed with new silhouettes including the denim motorcycle jacket, the denim blazer, and the denim vest,” Gap’s Doyne says. “White denim is also another big trend so we’ve introduced a white version of our classic jean jacket.”
jiree