I Always Get Compliments on My Denim Outfits—Here Are the Formulas I Swear By

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(Image credit: @sorayabakhtiar)

I was born and raised in Los Angeles, so denim is like a second skin for me. It's safe to estimate that I wear jeans in some form at least six days a week, so by now, I've gotten my outfit combination pretty dialed. Even though to me my denim outfits are pretty standard by now, I somehow always manage to garner compliments on them. Maybe I've gotten so used to them I stopped noticing their allure, but I now take note of exactly what I'm wearing when someone stops me to tell me they like my outfit.

Since jeans are a staple in the wardrobes of most people I know, I figured these jean looks were worth sharing. From the two-piece miracle outfit I just added to my arsenal last year to the tried-and-true combination I always reach for when I'm running behind, below are my six favorite easy jean outfits that always garner compliments.

T-Shirt + Skinny Jeans + Knee-High Boots

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(Image credit: @taniasarin)

This is my number one running-late outfit combination: I grab my favorite T-shirt, high-waisted skinny jeans, and knee-high boots and call it a day. It's beyond easy to put together yet always ends up feeling polished because of the sophistication knee-high boots bring to the table. 

Leather Blazer + Straight-Leg Jeans + Black Boots

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(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Another great option for when you're short on time: a leather blazer, straight-leg jeans, and black boots. The contrast of texture between the leather and denim gives off a cool-girl vibe with minimal effort.

Oversize Denim Jacket + Straight-Leg Jeans + Ankle Boots

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(Image credit: @aimeesong)

Denim-on-denim is honestly my favorite denim outfit of all time. It's laidback, comfortable, and never feels like it's trying too hard.

Pretty Top + Flared Jeans + Square-Toe Boots

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(Image credit: @discodaydream)

It sounds simple, but don't underestimate the power of a pretty top and a good pair of jeans. Just add the right pair of ankle boots (I personally like this of-the-moment square-toe style) and you're set. 

Leopard Coat + Graphic Tee + Wide-Leg Jeans + Pointed-Toe Boots

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(Image credit: @hoskelsa)

A leopard-coat–and-denim combination is a tale as old as time, and it's a classic for a reason. Denim always pops next to leopard print, so this outfit combo is a no-brainer for me during the winter months. Just add in some of-the-moment ankle boots, like this pointed-toe situation, and your outfit is complete. 

Cropped Sweater + High-Waisted Jeans

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(Image credit: @sorayabakhtiar)

Cardigans started trending hard last year, and with that trend brought one of my newest denim outfit combos: a cropped cardigan sweater and high-waisted jeans. This two-piece gem of an outfit is perfect for weekends or date night, as it's equal parts casual and fun. 

This article was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Next: 8 Casual Outfits to Wear on Repeat This Spring

Caitlin Burnett
Contributing Editor