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what to wear with a denim shirt

What To Wear With A Denim Shirt: Simple & Elegant Ideas

Key Takeaways

  • Layering a denim shirt over a column of white is a simple yet elegant way to elevate your summer wardrobe. But the creativity doesn’t stop there. Learn how to mix & match with what to wear with a denim shirt in this article! 
  • Add simple elements like slide sandals and silver jewellery to bring your look to the next level. To see more ideas and find out what goes with a denim shirt, read the full article for endless inspiration!

Dark blue denim button-up shirt with chest pockets for stylish and elegant outfits.

What To Wear With A Denim Shirt

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What To Wear With A Denim Shirt

1. Layered with Leather

When thinking about what to wear with a denim shirt, consider combining it with your favourite leather jacket. This pairing creates a timeless, edgy look. 

Wear your denim shirt tucked into slim-fit jeans, and throw on a black or brown leather jacket for texture and depth. Add ankle boots or sleek trainers to keep it casual yet polished. 

Whether you're off for a coffee date or running errands, this look is both effortless and chic, ideal for cooler days when layering is key. The contrast of soft denim and structured leather elevates your style while remaining comfortably wearable.

Brown leather jacket with blue jeans and accessories for a stylish denim shirt look.

Layer denim shirt with leather. Source: InStyle

Read more: What to Wear With Denim Jacket: 10 Best Items for a Timeless Look

2. The Updated Suit

If you’re wondering how to style a denim shirt in a smart, unexpected way, try pairing it with a tailored suit. A beige or grey suit contrasts beautifully with a denim shirt, adding a laid-back twist to formal attire. 

Swap your classic white blouse for the denim option, and accessorise with loafers or low heels. This look works brilliantly for work or a semi-formal dinner. It's a perfect way to show off how versatile a denim shirt can be while keeping things fresh and modern.

Denim jumpsuit with navy blazer and white sneakers for stylish outfit inspiration.

Suit with denim shirt. Source: New Look

Check out: Desigual - Desigual Women Jacket

3. The Canadian Tuxedo

Double denim has never been more stylish when done right. Wondering what goes with a denim shirt? 

Try pairing it with jeans in a similar or contrasting shade. Light blue denim shirts with dark indigo jeans are a favourite, or mix a chambray shirt with black denim for an updated take. 

Avoid overly matching tones to steer clear of looking dated, and finish with neutral accessories like a leather belt and tan boots.

Person styled in denim-on-denim with a patterned scarf and designer belt ensemble.

Canadian tuexedo with denim shirt. Source: In The Groove

4. Tucked & Turtlenecked

For colder days, knowing how to wear a denim shirt creatively is key. Layer it over a thin turtleneck in grey or black, buttoning it fully for a sleek effect. Pair with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt for an outfit that’s both cosy and refined. 

A tucked-in denim shirt with a classic belt completes the look. This style effortlessly transitions from office meetings to evening gatherings, perfect for autumn and winter.

Blue button-down shirt over a white turtleneck sweater for stylish layering.

Turtlenecked denim shirt is perfect for a breeze day. Source: Pinterest

See more: 13+ Best 70s Fashion Ideas: Iconic Trends You Can Wear Today

5. A Summertime Shacket

If you’re searching for what to wear with denim shirt female-friendly ideas during warmer months, use it as a lightweight shacket (shirt-jacket). 

Layer it over a cropped tank or sundress, leaving the buttons undone. Roll the sleeves for a carefree vibe, and finish with sandals or white trainers. 

This idea of what to wear with a denim shirt turns a denim shirt into a breezy wardrobe staple that’s versatile for sunny days.

Classic denim button-up shirt with chest pockets and rolled sleeves for stylish outfits.

Your summer outfit should never miss a shacket. Source: Amazon

6. Denim Maxi Moments

If you're wondering how to style a denim shirt for an outstanding look, pair it with a matching denim maxi skirt. 

This monochromatic look highlights the aesthetic of a denim dress but allows for more customisation. Add a bold belt to define your waist, and finish with ankle boots or sleek flats. This Western-inspired vibe is a nod to vintage trends while remaining fashion-forward.

Collection of diverse denim dresses showcasing unique styles and elegant designs.

A denim maxi can be mixed in various styles. Source: cortijoelpuerto.com

7. The Cropped Look

Turn your denim shirt into a DIY masterpiece by cropping it at the waist. The raw hem adds an effortlessly cool edge, especially when paired with high-waisted trousers or a skirt.

 If you’re asking yourself how to wear a denim shirt with leggings, this shorter style works perfectly. Finish the look with trainers or chunky boots for a relaxed yet edgy outfit.

Cropped denim button-up shirt with rolled sleeves for stylish casual outfits.

Going out of traditional style with a cropped denim shirt. Source: One Teaspoon

8. Bold Layers

Layering your denim shirt under vibrant outerwear is an excellent way to transition it through the seasons. 

Consider pairing it with khaki trousers and a bold red or mustard coat for autumn. Button your shirt to the top, tuck it into your trousers, and add loafers or ankle boots. 

This mix-and-match of what to wear with a denim shirt is ideal for those transitional days when it’s too warm for heavy coats but too chilly to go without layers.

Denim jumpsuit showcasing a belted waist and front pockets in a stylish ensemble.

Layering your denim shirt for an autumn day. Source: The Mom Edit

9. Accessories First

A denim shirt acts as the perfect blank canvas for statement accessories. Whether it’s a colourful scarf, chunky jewellery, or a patterned bag, the neutral tone of denim makes every piece pop. 

To keep the look cohesive, pair the shirt with plain trousers or jeans. This approach makes the outfit feel fresh and personal, showcasing how to wear a denim shirt with flair.

Sleeveless denim button-up shirt paired with white pants for chic summer styling.

Silver necklaces, bracelets, or belts are ideal accessories with a denim shirt. Source: Walmart

10. Half-Buttoned for Casual Cool

When considering how to style a denim shirt for a laid-back vibe, wear it half-buttoned over denim shorts or a simple summer dress, perfect as a summer outfit idea

The slightly undone look feels effortlessly stylish. Add sliders or espadrilles for a breezy outfit perfect for warm-weather outings. This relaxed styling technique proves how versatile a denim shirt can be in even the most casual settings.

Black denim blouse with short puff sleeves and button placket for elegant styling.

A half buttoned denim shirt for a cool styling day. Source: Amazon

11. Layer Over a Dress

If you’re wondering how to wear a denim shirt in a way that feels both feminine and versatile, try layering it over a dress. 

Button your shirt halfway and tie the ends at your waist for a playful, relaxed vibe. This works beautifully with a floral midi or maxi dress, adding a hint of structure to an otherwise flowy outfit. 

For added definition, cinch a skinny belt around your waist, allowing the denim shirt to function almost like a jacket. Finish the look with sandals or espadrilles, and you’ve got a perfect outfit for brunch, a day out shopping, or even a casual date. 

This layering technique shows what to wear with a denim shirt when you want a balanced blend of comfort and style.

Navy dress with light blue sleeves and metallic blue cowboy boots for stylish outfit.

Layering your denim shirt over a dress is a creative idea. Source: InStyle

12. Pair with High-Waisted Shorts

For sunny days, what goes with a denim shirt better than high-waisted shorts? 

Opt for a pair of striped or neutral-coloured shorts to keep the look fresh and summery. Tuck your denim shirt neatly into the waistband for a polished finish, or leave it slightly untucked for a carefree vibe.

 To highlight the outlook, accessorise with metallic sandals and a wide-brimmed hat, creating an outfit that’s perfect for beach strolls or sightseeing. This look offers a breezy, practical solution when you’re thinking about what to wear with denim shirt female styles in the warmer months.

 

13. Double Denim with Wide-Leg Jeans

Double denim doesn’t have to be daunting. 

For a chic and modern take, pair a fitted denim shirt with wide-leg jeans in a contrasting shade. Think a light chambray shirt styled with dark indigo jeans. Roll up the shirt sleeves and add a statement belt to break up the denim and define your silhouette. 

This pairing works well for casual lunches or relaxed evening plans. Add bold accessories like oversized earrings or a patterned scarf to inject personality into the look. 

When styled correctly, this outfit perfectly showcases how to style a denim shirt for a sleek, fashion-forward vibe.

Three stylish street outfits showcasing denim-on-denim jackets and jeans combinations.

Wide-leg jeans and denim shirt can never go out of style. Source: The Telegraph

14. Over a Column of White

For a fresh, summery outfit, try layering your denim shirt over a column of white. 

Pair a crisp white tank or tee with white trousers or shorts, and wear your denim shirt unbuttoned as a light jacket. The white-on-white base creates a clean, minimalist look, allowing the denim shirt to stand out as the focal point. Roll up the sleeves for a relaxed vibe and accessorise with platform sneakers or woven sandals to add a touch of modernity. 

This unique summer work outfit works perfectly for casual outings, providing a breezy yet polished look. If you’re wondering what to wear with a denim shirt female, try this chic and effortless mix & match.

White denim jacket and pants outfit styled with black boots for a chic look.

Freely mix & match your denim shirt over white. Source: Grazia Daily

15. Tied Over a Skirt or Dress

If you’re unsure how to style a denim shirt in a more feminine way, try tying it over a flowy skirt or dress. 

The casual texture of the denim balances the elegance of a maxi skirt or a knit dress, creating a stylish contrast. Button the shirt halfway, tie it at your waist, and let the skirt or dress flow naturally. Complete the look with slide sandals or espadrilles, and add delicate gold jewellery to elevate the outfit. 

What goes with a denim shirt? A breezy skirt or dress is always a winning choice.

Side-by-side comparison of casual outfits with plaid midi skirt and striped bodycon dress.

Tied your denim shirt over a skirt. Source: www.devasasansor.com

16. Paired with Chinos and White Sneakers

For a smart-casual approach, pair your denim shirt with coloured chinos and white sneakers. 

Unbutton the top few buttons of your shirt and either tuck it into the chinos or tie it at the waist for a relaxed yet put-together look. Add a coordinating tee underneath and accessorise with a woven belt and a neutral tote bag for a polished finish. 

This outfit is perfect for daytime errands or casual work settings where comfort meets style. If you’ve been thinking how to wear a denim shirt beyond just jeans, this combination offers a fresh alternative that’s effortlessly chic.

Light denim shirt and wide-leg jeans with neon yellow woven handbag in stylish outfit.

A denim shirt and white sneakers is a classic combo. Source: InStyle

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