How to Style Denim on Denim

I love creating a perfect outfit. I get a vision in my mind and it becomes my mission to make that look a reality through my clothing, hair, makeup, accessories, and shoes. Yes, that’s actually how my mind works.  However, curating the “perfect” outfit doesn’t always happen, especially while I’m chugging coffee and getting ready for work at 7 am on a Monday. Here’s why I always gravitate toward denim on denim when I don’t know what to wear.

Zara Body Curve Jeggings
All photos by Michelle Dorman Photography

Wearing denim is easy, comfortable, and matches everything! For some, wearing two types of denim can be a little intimidating since we don’t dare resemble Justin Timberlake and Britney Speakers at the 2001 VMAs. However, there are a few easy steps we can follow to avoid a denim disaster.

women's chambray shirt

Hat: Forever 21 | Necklace: Tiffany’s, similar here | Black Bralette: Victoria’s Secret | Chambray shirt: snagged in Montana, similar here & here | Jeans: Zara Body Curve | Boots: Mia | Clutch: Old, similar here & here

Denim on denim

1. Opt for different shades of denim. This is by far the easiest rule to follow. You don’t want to look like an all denim mom from the 90’s? Wear different shades of denim to create a cohesive outfit but not look too matchy.

2. Break up your denim with color. Use other colors to balance out your duplicate denim. Every color matches jeans so it’s hard to make a mistake here. If you feel like your outfit is denim overload add a scarf, undershirt, or jacket that isn’t a shade a blue.

Denim on denim

3. For all that is holy, avoid pairing an all denim look with denim accessories. Your denim outfit is creating a type of monochromatic look – maybe different colors, but overall a similar texture. Accessorize with pieces that bring a different element to your outfit – new tones, textures or patterns.

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4. Let one piece of denim be fitted. We know too much denim is overwhelming so, too much oversized denim is even worse. If one of your denim pieces is loose or oversized, let the other piece be fitted to your body. This avoids that baggy Fresh Prince of Bel Air look.

5. Try distressed denim. Another easy way to style denim on denim, is having a distressed element to one of your pieces. I don’t suggest both, but one. Distressed denim adds a different feel to your look and also acts as a new texture or pattern.

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Embracing fashion is just as prevalent in the everyday moments as it is when you have the time to style the perfect look. Learning simple tricks like styling denim on denim can make  the outfits you rush to put together become your perfect outfit.

About Bailey

Seattle fashion blogger at hotdresshotmess.com

18 thoughts on “How to Style Denim on Denim”

    1. Thanks Siffat. I grabbed this hat from Forever 21 and had serious doubts about it but it’s turned into one of my favorite items! Stay stylish!!

    1. OMG you don’t know how much that means to me! Lord knows the brows have gone through some rough times haha. Can’t wait to continue following your blog!!

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