How can you wear a denim shirt?

There are so many ways to wear a denim shirt , from everyday streetwear outfits to more sophisticated ensembles. "My personal favorite is to pair it with a white tank tucked into pants or shorts and wear it open, almost as a jacket," Miranda offers. She adds that the Canadian Tuxedo is back in style, so don't be afraid to embrace a denim-on-denim look . "Wear your denim shirt tucked right into your favorite jeans, throw on a pair of Western boots, some chunky jewelry, and you're styled."

How do you dress up a denim shirt?

To dress up a denim shirt, choose fancier or professional-looking bottoms and accessories. "For example, if you pair it with pants, you will want them more tailored and fitted, and if you pair it with a skirt, look for a more elevated fabric, design, or color," says Alsulaiman. Miranda recommends tucking the shirt in and adding a belt. "I love a brown leather belt with a chunky Western-style buckle," she says. "You could also do a thick white belt and white shoes to tie it all together."

How do you soften a denim shirt?

The most tried-and-tested way to soften denim shirts is to soak them in white vinegar. "White vinegar is a natural fabric softener that will help break down the fibers in the denim and make them softer," Alsulaiman explains. Soak it in a water-vinegar solution for about an hour, then launder it as usual. Fabric softener can also work. Don't want to wash your new denim shirt just yet? Alsulaiman suggests tossing it in the dryer with a damp towel. "The towel will help to absorb some of the stiffness out of the fabric, and the heat will also help to soften the material."

The Best Denim Shirts of 2024

a woman wearing a denim shirt on a neutral background — Byrdie / Quince

Building a wardrobe means outfitting your closet with timeless staples that outlast trends. Enter: the classic denim shirt. With the look of a button-down and the durability of a jean jacket, this top acts as both a layering piece and outerwear. And like your favorite pair of jeans, it'll get softer and comfier with time.

"Denim shirts are versatile and can be worn almost every season, depending on the cut and fit," says style coach Leena Alsulaiman. "Select the right design and fabric for the aesthetic you're aiming to achieve, and keep in mind what will work best for your wardrobe."

We scoured the internet to find the best denim shirts for women, narrowing it down to styles that stand out for material, construction, sizing, fit, and wash.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

L.L.Bean Heritage Washed Denim Shirt at L.L.Bean ($70)

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Best Budget:

Vetinee Button Down Denim Shirt at Amazon ($44)

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Best Oversized:

Old Navy Oversized Button-Down Boyfriend Shirt at Gap.com (See Price)

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Best Fitted:

Zara Cropped Denim Shirt at Zara.com (See Price)

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Best Distressed:

Quince Distressed Denim Shirt at Quince.com (See Price)

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Best Cropped:

Madewell Denim Long-Sleeve Crop Shirt at Nordstrom ($85)

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Best Stretchy:

Good American Classic Denim Shirt at Nordstrom ($82)

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Best Plus-Size:

Ulla Popken Denim Button-Down Shirt at Ullapopken.com (See Price)

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Best Short-Sleeve:

Free People Denim Top at Amazon ($128)

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Best Western:

Polo Ralph Lauren Denim Western Shirt at Nordstrom ($168)

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Best Overall

L.L.Bean Heritage Washed Denim Shirt

PHOTO:

L.L.Bean

$70 at L.L.Bean $70 at Zappos

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XS–3X | Colors: Light indigo, medium indigo

Our top choice comes from L.L.Bean. The epitome of the classic denim shirt, this long-sleeve button-down flaunts a comfy, relaxed fit that can be layered over a tank top or tee or worn on its own. We love how the curved shirttail hem can be fully tucked into pants, partially tucked, or left out. And the cuffed sleeves can be rolled for a laid-back look. If you ask us, the fabric is perfection too. It's 100% cotton and pre-washed for softness on the first wear—and it'll only get better with time.

Best Budget

Vetinee Button Down Denim Shirt

PHOTO:

Amazon

$39 at Amazon View on Walmart

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XS–3X | Colors: Classic blue, indigo, vintage black, dark gray, almond brown +more

Looking for an affordable pick? This budget-friendly button-down is 100% cotton, so you can bet it's durable yet soft and breathable. The curved hem makes it easy to tuck into pants or a skirt. We also like that it comes in seven sizes and over 20 colors, ranging from classic denim washes to crisp white to distressed black.

Best Oversized

Old Navy Oversized Button-Down Boyfriend Shirt

PHOTO:

Old Navy

View on Gap.com

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XS–4X | Color: Medium wash

You'll always be glad to have an oversized denim shirt at the ready. We like this one from Old Navy, which has an extra-relaxed fit and a longer length that goes over the hips and butt. Otherwise, it features conventional details, like a spread collar, buttoned cuffs, and a patch chest pocket. Wear it buttoned up with a pair of leggings or unbuttoned over a crop top with fitted joggers.

Best Fitted

Zara Cropped Denim Shirt

PHOTO:

Zara

View on Zara.com

Materials: Cotton, elastane | Sizes: XS–XL | Color: Blue

Zara's take on the denim shirt is this modern fitted number. The tailored design has a curved hem that hits above the waist to show a little skin with low-rise pants. You could also style it with a high-waisted skirt or dress pants. We like that a bit of elastane is woven into the cotton to add some stretch.

Best Distressed

Quince Distressed Denim Shirt

PHOTO:

Quince

View on Quince.com

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XS–XL | Colors: Blue, light chambray

Like your favorite pair of jeans, distressed denim shirts have a time-worn, lived-in appeal that'll probably always have a place in fashion. With this button-down, you can get the look and feel the very first time you put it on. We like how the regular fit can be worn on its own or layered over a tank or turtleneck.

Best Cropped

Madewell Denim Long-Sleeve Crop Shirt

PHOTO:

Zappos

$64 at Nordstrom $60 at Madewell.com $64 at Zappos

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XXS–2X | Colors: Dayview wash, tile white

We covet this cropped option from Madewell. The mid-waist length meets the top of your favorite high-rise pants, while the slightly boxy fit won't look or feel too tight. With a high-low shirttail hem, a spread collar, and chunky chrome buttons, it combines elements of a traditional denim shirt and jean jacket.

Best Stretchy

Good American Classic Denim Shirt

PHOTO:

Nordstrom

$82 at Nordstrom View on Goodamerican.com

Denim shirts are often 100% cotton, which gives them the sturdy, durable feel of jeans. But, like jeans, they can be stiff—at least at first. That's why we like this one from Good American, which blends a small amount of polyester and lycra for that stretchy jeans vibe and freedom of movement. Other than that, the silhouette and details are in line with a classic denim button-down.

Best Plus-Size

Ulla Popken Denim Button-Down Shirt

PHOTO:

Ulla Popken

View on Ullapopken.com

Materials: Cotton, elastane | Sizes: 12/14–32/34 | Color: Blue

Ulla Popken is a German plus-size clothing brand with an impressive selection of tunics, button-downs, and shackets. This denim shirt checks all the boxes: long sleeves with button cuffs, a square chest pocket, and a rounded shirttail. We also appreciate that the fabric contains a teensy bit of elastane for stretch, while subtle side slits add comfort and ease of movement.

Best Short-Sleeve

Free People Denim Top

Free People We The Free The Short Of It Denim Top

PHOTO:

Amazon

$128 at Amazon $90 at Nordstrom $128 at Freepeople.com

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XS–XL | Colors: Light vintage, peach, chocolate, medium tint, dirty deeds

For warmer weather, snag a short-sleeve denim shirt. Intentionally oversized, this casually cool top falls past the hips for a longline look, which can be easily paired with leggings or biker shorts. You could even throw it on over a swimsuit. We love how the distressed wash and pearl-finished buttons create a juxtaposition of ruggedness and Western glam.

Best Western

Polo Ralph Lauren Denim Western Shirt

PHOTO:

Nordstrom

$110 at Nordstrom View on Ralphlauren.com View on Lyst.com

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XXS–2X | Color: Canaria wash

This Western-inspired denim shirt from Ralph Lauren nods to country charm without being too over the top or sacrificing versatility. It's the details for us—the cowgirl yoke, shirttail hem, and pearly buttons down the front, on the cuffs, and on each button flap. We also like how the back darts create a slightly tailored fit.

Best Colors

Levi's Western Denim Shirt

PHOTO:

Amazon

$49 at Amazon $49 at Target View on Levi.com

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XS–4X | Colors: Dark indigo, light indigo, icy ecru, mauve chalk, black rose +more

Levi's is the reigning king of denim, so this list wouldn't be complete without it. This 100% cotton button-down shirt features the brand's fan-favorite non-stretch jean fabric that gets better with every wear. We're all about the blue hues, but if you want to expand your horizons, there's also white, black, mauve, and gray—to name just a few.

Best Lightweight

Splendid Bleached Indigo Button Down

PHOTO:

Bloomingdale's

$148 at Nordstrom $148 at Bloomingdales $148 at Zappos

Material: Lyocell | Sizes: XS–XL | Color: Bleached indigo

If you like the look of denim but want something lighter-weight, this shirt has your name on it. It's made of lyocell, a semi-synthetic fabric with incredible softness and breathability. The fabric is even mildly stretchy. We like the long-ish length, slouchy fit, and '80s-inspired bleached wash. You can wear this top as a beach cover-up, with shorts, or with flowy linen pants.

Best Chambray

Gap Chambray Denim Big Shirt

PHOTO:

Gap

View on Gap.com

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XXS–2X | Color: Light indigo

Chambray is kinda like denim, but the plain weave gives it a lighter, less rigid look and feel. This shirt is not only soft but also airy, with an effortless, easy-to-wear silhouette. We'd rock the oversized cut over a simple tank, crop top, or baby tee. It's also a perfect outer layer for an athleisure outfit, like yoga pants and a sports bra.

Best for Work

Vineyard Vines Chambray Button Down

PHOTO:

Bloomingdale's

$59 at Nordstrom $59 at Bloomingdales View on Vineyardvines.com

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XXS–3X | Color: Morning mist

This chambray shirt is just the thing for business-casual or smart-casual dress codes. The denim wash gives it a laid-back, approachable look, while the sleek silhouette and paired-down details lend an air of sophistication. And since it's stylish but doesn't lean to heavily on current denim trends, you can expect to wear it for years to come.

Best Boyfriend

American Eagle Premium Denim Boyfriend Shirt

PHOTO:

American Eagle

View on Ae.com

Materials: Organic cotton, lyocell | Sizes: XS–XL | Color: Light wash

We're also big fans of this boyfriend-style button-down. The oversized—yet not too boxy—cut is the ideal outer layer to wear over a cami or tucked-in tee. American Eagle's AE77 material is a premium, eco-friendly denim made from organic cotton and lyocell, so you can bet it's not only sustainable but also breathable and oh-so-soft.

Best on Amazon

Wrangler Denim Snap Shirt

Wrangler Long Sleeve Western Denim Snap Shirt

PHOTO:

Amazon

$35 at Amazon View on Wrangler.com

Material: Cotton | Sizes: XS–3X | Colors: Mid denim, dark denim

Amazon is a treasure trove for fashion basics, and the denim shirt is no exception. We can't get enough of this top-rated best-seller. The classic design is 100% cotton, with Western yokes, a spread collar, back darts, double chest pockets, and pearly snaps throughout—everything we want in a jean button-down.

Best Shacket

Abercrombie & Fitch Drapey Denim Shirt Jacket

PHOTO:

Abercrombie & Fitch

View on Abercrombie.com

Materials: Cotton, lyocell | Sizes: XS–XL | Color: Medium wash

This shirt-jacket hybrid can be worn as lightweight outerwear or when you need an extra layer of warmth indoors. The cotton-lyocell blend is soft and breathable, and since it's not lined or insulated, it's not bulky whatsoever. We also think the drapey silhouette and medium distressed wash are just about perfect.

What to Look For When Buying a Denim Shirt

Material: Stylist and personal shopper Desiree Miranda suggests 100% cotton denim shirts for a sturdy, jean-like feel. "Cotton is more durable and will control moisture and insulate better than most synthetic fabrics," she tells Byrdie. However, if you prefer a bit of stretch, look for one blended with a small amount of spandex or elastane. Chambray can also be a good option for those who want something lighter and more breathable.
Strong Seams: A high-quality denim shirt will have strong reinforced seams. "Check the seams to ensure they don't come apart when you pull a bit," says Alsulaiman.
Full Button Closure: The best denim shirts have full button closures, meaning the buttons or snaps go from the collar all the way down to the hem. This is a classic, functional look with lots of versatility and endless styling opportunities, as you can wear it open, partially buttoned, or buttoned to the top. Miranda says buttons on the cuffs are also good—that way, you can roll the sleeves up on warmer days or sport a more casual aesthetic.
Fit and Cut: Denim shirts run the gamut from boxy oversized and longline boyfriend to cropped and tailored. When choosing a cut, consider how you plan on wearing the shirt. If you want something to layer over leggings and fitted tops, a more relaxed style is best. But you'll want a more fitted shirt for tucking into pants.
Wash: You also have the option of various denim washes. As with jeans, it's ultimately a matter of personal preference and what other pieces you'll wear with the shirt. Dark indigo can be a little dressier, whereas light, distressed, and bleached washes lend an easy-breezy, summery appeal. Then there are alternatives to blue, like black, white, gray, and even some bolder hues.

FAQ

How can you wear a denim shirt?

There are so many ways to wear a denim shirt, from everyday streetwear outfits to more sophisticated ensembles. "My personal favorite is to pair it with a white tank tucked into pants or shorts and wear it open, almost as a jacket," Miranda offers. She adds that the Canadian Tuxedo is back in style, so don't be afraid to embrace a denim-on-denim look. "Wear your denim shirt tucked right into your favorite jeans, throw on a pair of Western boots, some chunky jewelry, and you're styled."
How do you dress up a denim shirt?

To dress up a denim shirt, choose fancier or professional-looking bottoms and accessories. "For example, if you pair it with pants, you will want them more tailored and fitted, and if you pair it with a skirt, look for a more elevated fabric, design, or color," says Alsulaiman.
Miranda recommends tucking the shirt in and adding a belt. "I love a brown leather belt with a chunky Western-style buckle," she says. "You could also do a thick white belt and white shoes to tie it all together."
How do you soften a denim shirt?

The most tried-and-tested way to soften denim shirts is to soak them in white vinegar. "White vinegar is a natural fabric softener that will help break down the fibers in the denim and make them softer," Alsulaiman explains. Soak it in a water-vinegar solution for about an hour, then launder it as usual. Fabric softener can also work.
Don't want to wash your new denim shirt just yet? Alsulaiman suggests tossing it in the dryer with a damp towel. "The towel will help to absorb some of the stiffness out of the fabric, and the heat will also help to soften the material."

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Theresa Holland is a freelance writer, editor, and product reviewer specializing in apparel, accessories, beauty, and lifestyle. She knows how to find the best clothing pieces on the market and has personally worn shirts and outerwear from many brands featured here.

Meet the Experts:

Leena Alsulaiman is a style coach, creative strategist, and stylist for Anthropologie.
Desiree Miranda is a stylist and personal shopper based in New York City.

Article Sources

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

Sela SK, Nayab-Ul-Hossain AKM, Rakib MSI, Niloy MKH. Improving the functionality of raw cotton: simultaneous strength increases and additional multi-functional properties. Heliyon. 2020;6(8):e04607. Published 2020 Aug 3. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04607
Sela SK, Nayab-Ul-Hossain AKM, Rakib MSI, Niloy MKH. Improving the functionality of raw cotton: simultaneous strength increases and additional multi-functional properties. Heliyon. 2020;6(8):e04607. Published 2020 Aug 3. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04607
Islam S, Yasmin J, Toufiqul Alam S, Islam F, Kanon R. Identifying the shrinkage properties of cotton polyester ... Identifying the Shrinkage Properties of Cotton Polyester Spandex Denim Fabrics of Different Fiber Content. 2019. Accessed April 5, 2024. https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access-pdfs/identifying-the-shrinkage-properties-of-cotton-polyester-spandex-denim-fabrics-of-different-fiber-content.pdf.
Zhang S, Chen C, Duan C, et al. Regenerated cellulose by the Lyocell process, a brief review of the process and properties. March 13, 2018. Accessed April 5, 2024. https://bioresources.cnr.ncsu.edu/resources/regenerated-cellulose-by-the-lyocell-process-a-brief-review-of-the-process-and-properties/.