14 Denim Outfit Ideas That Reinvent the Staple for Every Taste

Of all the fabrics out there, denim is potentially the most tried-and-true. It’s core to some of the most seminal fashion moments in history—from James Dean wearing the Lee 101Z (the first zip fly jeans) in Rebel Without a Cause, to Jane Birkin’s signature pairing of flares and a white top, to the ‘90s Calvin Klein ads that plastered our childhood bedrooms. The timeless, always-in-style material is key to any wardrobe, as denim is a cheat code for looking effortlessly chic, truly cool, and comfortable in one's own skin. A great piece of well-worn denim can become a part of your identity, plus it's incredibly versatile—there are countless ways to style the fabric, from your go-to T-shirt and jeans to unexpected moments. Ahead, see 14 denim outfit ideas you'll want to live in this fall and beyond.

Set Ablaze

A blazer and jeans is the go-to ensemble for style icons ranging from Larry David to Cindy Crawford. To keep this look interesting, look for a blazer style with some unexpected detailing (i.e. exaggerated lapels, a belted waist, cut-outs, a bit of lace, or a minimalist ruffle), just like Sofia Richie Grainge did here with her puff-sleeved style.

Semi-Formal

Try pairing a dark wash denim-on-denim moment with a tailored white button-down for a high-contrast look that feels a bit vintage. Accessorize with a black leather belt and warm tinted sunglasses.

All Dressed Up

Tube dresses are having a moment, and the denim iterations have a covetable late ‘90s-to-Y2K feel to them. Layer on a long, single-strand necklace, then slip into a pair of kitten heels or—for cooler days—beige knee-high boots.

Jump(suit) for Joy

Jumpsuits were invented as tough workwear pieces for pilots and parachutists, but these days, they're a veritable fashion piece available in every aesthetic imaginable. Elevate a dark-wash denim style one-piece further with a strong, sleek belt and platforms for a '70s-inspired look.

Be Prepared

As soon as the weather gets crisp, we tend to default to wearing jeans, boots, and a giant jacket every day. Punch things up just enough by switching out your jeans for an elongated denim skirt and carrying a '90s-inspired leather bag.

All-Black Ensemble

Black on black is a no-fail equation. Pair loose-fitting jeans with a cashmere sweater for a cozy look that works for anything and everything. Make the look a bit more textural by tying a second sweater around your shoulders, then let a white crewneck tee peek out for a bit of contrast.

Classic Canadian Tuxedo

Another look that plays into the denim-on-denim fall trend, a classic medium wash is the perfect way to make an effortless statement that never goes out of style. We love how Ashley Graham balanced an oversized denim jacket with straight-cut jeans, then completed the look with a simple white tank and a sleek, intentional ponytail hairstyle.

Color Blocked

White jeans can serve as an ideal canvas for a splash of ultra-saturated color blocking. Complete the look with coordinating ankle boots and a statement bag.

All in the Bag

Denim is a neutral, and as such, you can pair a denim purse with nearly everything. Create a layered sand painting effect with shades of blue and a printed, limited-edition knit sweater.

All on Top

It's so easy to take the no pants trend into denim territory, as an oversized denim button-down can work well as a dress. Layer it with even more denim (in the form of a jacket) for a playful, monochromatic outfit. Balance it out with a pair of comfortable sneakers.

Over(all) and Out

It’s probably been a few decades since you last wore overalls, but it may be time to invest in a pair. A dark wash is super chic, and when worn with a black tank top and heels or ballet flats, you may fall in love with them all over again.

Cargo Chic

Cargo pants have been fully back in the zeitgeist this year, and a denim style provides a fresh yet incredibly wearable take. Wear them with a knit mock neck and sneakers for a casual, functional daytime look.

Skirt Streak

Though not a tuxedo, this denim-on-denim ensemble feels both laid back and put together. The denim washes can match perfectly if you want, but they don’t need to. Complete the look with sleek knee-high boots, as Olivia Palermo does here.

Low-Rise Reinvented

Low-rise jeans are back and seemingly here to stay, and there's more ways to wear them than the classic crop top pairing. Here, Precious Lee wears hers with a high-cut bodysuit and a printed robe, creating an unexpected silhouette that we want to copy immediately.