How To Style a Denim Jacket: A Casual Guy’s Guide

The denim jacket is a timeless garment that deserves a place in every man’s closet. The denim jacket evokes the cool ruggedness that was popularized by the likes of James Dean and Bruce Springsteen. It has withstood the test of time and is always in fashion. This multipurpose piece will let you rough up an all-too-chic outfit, add an extra layer and conjure your inner rockstar. Best of all, the denim jacket is a versatile piece that can be styled in many different ways and is in season all year. Take a look at some highly fashionable concepts for styling your denim jacket.

Classic Casual: Pocket T-Shirt + Sneakers + Joggers

If you’re looking for an everyday casual look to pair with your denim jacket, you can’t go wrong with the classic pocket t-shirt and men’s jogger sweatpants. This outfit is great for running errands, grabbing lunch with friends and shopping. Adding a denim jacket to this outfit adds texture to an otherwise subdued aesthetic. What’s more, the color combo of your pocket t-shirt and joggers doesn’t matter because, like a good pair of denim jeans, a denim jacket goes with everything.

A loose-fitting jacket is your best bet when pairing your denim jacket with joggers and a pocket t-shirt. A loose-fitting jacket will match the energy of your leisure wear and feel as breathable and comfortable as the rest of your outfit.

Elevated Casual: Long-Sleeved Tees + Dress Pants (Chinos or Cargos)

Nothing beats an elevated casual aesthetic, whether you’re heading out for a happy hour, dinner with friends or movie night. For a simple yet appropriate outfit choice, when something a little dressier than your comfy joggers is required, you can pair chinos or cargos with one of your favorite long-sleeved tees. Top this look with your trusty denim jacket instead of the sport coat you might don in dresser situations, and voilà — your look is complete!

Depending on the event, you can switch up your footwear to further reflect the setting. If casual is key, pair this stylish fit with white tennis shoes, or if you require a more polished look, a pair of snazzy boots look great too. The elevated casual look of denim over a long-sleeved tee with khaki, navy, gray or black pants is a classic look that’s always in style. Another great way to style your denim jacket in this elevated classic aesthetic is by cuffing your jacket sleeves or pants. This adds a personal touch that accentuates the casual element of this look.

Date Night: Sweater + Boots

A great date night look is pairing your denim jacket with a sweater and boots. An oversized denim jacket over a chunky cable-knit cowl-neck or a fitted cashmere sweater is a great look for cold winter nights. Pair this outfit with a well-fitting pair of jeans and leather boots, and you’ll surely turn heads. The mixed textures of sweater, denim and leather give a polished, rugged look that will ensure your date night is a success.

Besides creating a hot look, combining a t-shirt, sweater and denim jacket creates an effect perfect for shedding layers as your body temperature adjusts from outdoors to indoors. No matter the occasion or outfit, a denim jacket should almost always remain unbuttoned, revealing the texture and color of your date night sweater.

Dress for the Occasion

The best thing about a denim jacket is its versatility. A good denim jacket can be paired with outfits for any occasion, from casual to sophisticated. Choosing the right color and fit is key. In terms of color, denim jackets run the gamut from bleached nearly white to dark indigo and black. Still, classic medium-washed denim is the most flexible. While the bleached denim will look great during the summer months and the indigo is perfect for the winter, medium-washed denim looks great all year long.

Once you’ve purchased the perfect denim jacket, get ready to live in it. Not only does a denim jacket work for so many occasions, but also once broken in, like a good pair of jeans or a classic pocket t-shirt, it’s super comfortable. Your denim jacket is a great crossover piece you can throw on over athletic wear on your way to the gym in the morning; you can pair it with chinos and a button-down for the office or don it with a pair of chinos for date night. The versatility and classic look of a denim jacket are what make this garment so desirable.

Remember To Accessorize

Like most looks, the denim jacket can be accessorized. A few great ways to accessorize at the neckline include adding a tie, scarf or chain. A belt or belt bag at the waistline will also add a pop to your outfit. Other considerations in terms of accessorizing include a great hat like a baseball cap or duckbill, stylish sunglasses and great shoes. Nothing takes your denim jacket to the next level like perfectly paired accessories.

Denim for (All the) Days

Let’s face it, denim is always in style, and that is especially true of denim jackets. Adding a classic yet rugged edge to any outfit, the denim jacket can be just as easily dressed up as it can be dressed down. Best of all, the denim jacket is a year-round garment perfect for layering and any weather.