6 Simple Autumn Outfits That Prove Jeans Can Look So Elegant

Good-quality jeans are arguably the wisest investment you can make for your daytime wardrobe. Casual and classic, simple and versatile, true-blue denim has proven time and time again that it's here to stay.

An item that feels as universally and enduringly relevant as jeans is a rare thing; it's rarer still to find one which transcends dress codes. Not only is denim regarded as an essential in casual styling, but it's proven easy to elevate for evening looks and more formal outings. A simple footwear switch and a smart outerwear option are all you need to take your jeans from laid-back to the height of elegance. Yes, really.

If you need some visual aids to make your denim feel dressy, you've come to the right place. We've traversed the depths of fashion Instagram to pluck out the finest examples of elegant jeans outfits. The six below feel chic and sophisticated, but also incredibly wearable. See for yourself—then shop the pieces you'll need to re-create your favourites.

1. Tweed Jacket + Loose Jeans + Ballet Flats

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(Image credit: @chiarasatelier)

Style Notes: Tweed equals elegance, as far as we're concerned. Paired with ballet flats and relaxed denim, this outfit feels totally Parisian.

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2. Blazer + Wide-Leg Jeans + Ankle Boots

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(Image credit: @oliviamarcus)

Style Notes: Need a quick outfit fix? When in doubt, toss on a blazer. Ankle boots will complete the smart ensemble, giving it a distinctly autumnal feel in the process.

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3. Relaxed Jumper + Straight-Leg Jeans + Mules

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: Slouchy knits in neutral hues are our best-loved staple at this time of year. Navy always feels expensive, as do pointed-toe mules (particularly these Toteme ones).

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4. Camel Coat + Mid-Waist Jeans + Knee-High Boots

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Style Notes: Camel coats remain in style year after year, but for 2023, we'll be wearing ours with jeans tucked into knee-high boots. It's a timeless look that subtly nods to the season's trends.

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5. White Blouse + Flares + Slingback Heels

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(Image credit: @juliesfi)

Style Notes: Whether it's summer or autumn, a jeans-and-nice-top combination never fails. Step out in some low slingbacks—they look especially good with flared denim.

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6. Scarf Coat + Washed Black Jeans + Heeled Boots

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Style Notes: That's right, the scarf coat is back for yet another autumn. Stick to a monochrome palette and opt for washed black denim—which, in our opinion, always feels more formal than blue.

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Next Up: 11 Anti-Trend Pieces That Will Work Hard In Any Autumn Wardrobe

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.

A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.

In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.