Indigo Denim Is Chic, But Fashion People Know These '90s Jeans That Are the Key to Easy, Elevated Spring Outfits

Is anyone else obsessed more than ever with the '90s right now? Yes? Good. Because between the revival of interest in Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's style, Netflix resurfacing every classic romcom, and two-decade-old music making its way back into the charts, it seems we’re all craving a little nostalgia. When it comes to fashion, that means the return of leopard print, preppy picks, and one other trusty favourite: light-wash jeans. Essentially, it's time to pull your Rachel Green moodboard back out.

Now, light-wash denim is often seen as the more casual colourway—the relaxed alternative to deep indigo or bold blue. A fair assumption, particularly in stricter office environments where it's hard to stray too far from black tailored trousers. But outside of that context, light-wash is actually the denim shade that really signals the shift into spring and summer—and it’s far more versatile than you might expect. Pair it with a broderie blouse and wooden wedge for something more bohemian, add a fine knit and suede flats for a timeless, every-occasion outfit (very CBK), or style it with another '90s favourite, a shell jacket—which is, handily, trending too—for something a little cooler.

Suddenly, it's the denim shade that stretches far further than the go-to white tee and ballet pump formula. Not that I’m knocking that combination—it’s a favourite for very good reason. But, as the fashion crowd embracing this ’90s-inspired denim look proves, light-wash jeans can go so much further. Scroll on to see five particularly chic examples of just how versatile they can be.

5 Light-Wash Jeans Looks to Bookmark:

1. Light-Wash Jeans + Cropped Trench Coat

Style Notes: While every light-wash jeans look made the moodboard for being both easy to recreate and effortlessly chic, Savina Chow's styling is my personal favourite. Simple, yes, but quietly elegant—it's a for-any-occasion look I'll be recreating myself, especially while there's still a chill in the air.

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2. Light-Wash Jeans + Grey Knit

Style Notes: The key to any great outfit is often not the pieces themselves, but the tiny styling details that make it all the more striking. The pulled-up sleeve, subtle signs of layering, and pop of personality through contrasting textures and distressed details are what make this one eye-catching, while every element is actually rather simple.

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3. Light-Wash Jeans + Shell Jacket

Style Notes: Light-wash jeans were a favourite in the '80s and '90s, as were shell jackets, so it makes perfect sense that the two should go together. Just keep in mind, these jackets are much warmer than they look, so a sandal will help to bring your body heat back down in a way that feels just as cool and casual as the rest of the outfit.

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4. Light-Wash Jeans + White Blouse

Style Notes: Few women offer minimalist style inspiration quite as well as Anouk Yve—proof, if ever you needed it, that less really can be more. The trick she often seems to return to is in choosing pieces that slightly stray from the norm. Like opting for an oversized silk shirt instead of a classic white cotton style, or round sunglasses instead of the go-to aviator.

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5. Light-Wash Jeans + Shirt

Style Notes: Looking for a more laid-back look? Turn your attention towards Abi Marvel's light-wash jeans, tee and blue shirt outfit. If blue isn't quite your colour, yellow, white, pink, or really any shade of shirt will look just as sleek, and the layering over a T-shirt trick goes a long way to lean it towards casual cool.

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