7 Easy Jeans Outfits You'll Find Chic Women Across Europe Wearing This Summer
Although jeans aren’t typically deemed warm-weather wear, there’s something about an English summer (or lack thereof) that heightens my appreciation of the jeans-and-top formula. Like a throw-on crew-neck T-shirt or a compact umbrella, denim looks are stored in my fashion archive within easy reach to construct a laid-back look in a moment's notice.
Jeans-and-top combinations stand strong, regardless of the season. Jeans one of a few dependable items that exist amongst more frivolous fashion counterparts—it never fails to astound me how this simplest of pieces can carry the weight of an ensemble, and even improve it. Denim appreciation is on the rise, and subsequently, styles are becoming more varied. The past few years have seen us revert to the high-rise, loose-fitting styles of the '80s and '90s, and, if we’ve learnt anything from the style mavens of those eras, it’s that jeans look super chic juxtaposed with slim-fitting strappy tops and billowy-sleeved shirts during the summer. Denim transcends generations, aesthetics and seasons, so it’s only right that jeans work well in summer when the weather allows for more lenient and versatile dressing.
From sleeveless vests and Victoriana blouses to overshirts, the season calls for understated pairings. Current offerings are becoming chicer as the season progresses and allows top-half dressing to shine even brighter. When it comes to jeans, fits such as barrel and straight-leg cuts are most practical for the heat, as they allow for a flow of air, whilst white denim is prominent during the warmer seasons as neutral tones uplift outfits with one sweep of colour.
If you’re wanting to celebrate the denim in your arsenal this summer with some chic high-low pairings, then look no further than these seven summer looks.
1. Linen Blazer, Straight-Leg Jeans and Mules
Style Notes: Influencer Lindsey Holland's outfit is the perfect after-hours ensemble. Paired with low mules, a lightweight vintage blazer and an oak-coloured bag, the deep-blue jeans pop under the evening light.
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Linen blazers are perfect for elevating your summer outfits.
Not only is the organic cotton sustainable, it will also keep you cool in the summer.
2. All-White Ensemble
Style Notes: The most subdued colour blocking you’ll ever meet, white on white (or ecru) is classically Parisian. Plus, bright colours are the perfect antidote to months of cold weather. Complete this fresh look with white canvas shoes and a patent bag.
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3. Bandeau Scarf Top and Barrel-Leg Denim
Style Notes: All hail the scarf and its many uses: As a hair accessory, a twilly and, traditionally speaking, a neck tie. In this case though, it fashions into a taught bandana top, reminiscent of Y2K but with a tinge of French effortlessness. Worn with denim shorts or longer jeans, it’s a match to behold for summer.
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A slightly looser leg fit adds a laid-back vibe to the top-half styling.
Low-heel sandals are a summer staple for me, and these Dear Frances shoes are a wearable height for extra comfort.
4. Shirt With Straight-Leg Jeans and Classic Accessories
Style Notes: The silk and cotton shirt offsets the rigidity of the vintage-style denim in this look, and we're happy to spotlight any outfit that celebrates ballet pumps right now.
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These jeans have gained acclaim as some of the best-fitting, highest-quality straight-leg jeans on the high street.
The perfect underarm accessory with '90s shaping and glossy black leather finish.
I'm so impressed with these ballet flats; it's hard to believe they're high street.
5. Striped Blazer and Fisherman Sandals
Style Notes: Jeans and a blazer is a timeless formula that just works. A layered outfit like this will enable you to chop and change depending on the climate. Prop up with fisherman sandals and a hands-free bag, and you’re (UK) summer ready.
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6. T-Shirt, Espadrilles and a Basket Bag
Style Notes: Tuck the T-shirt into the jeans and add an oversized basket bag to emulate ultimate fuss-free French style.
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'70s-style length with a '90s-style waist—the perfect amalgamation of denim’s best eras.
It’s a testament to design when the same styles are released each season.
7. Pretty White Blouse, Baggy Jeans and Ballet Flats
Style Notes: You just can't go wrong with a pretty white blouse and jeans. Make like Marina and opt for baggy jeans and flats to give the look a slightly edgier feel.
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The ruffles on this top are so flattering.
Every summer outfit deserves a pair of sunnies, and Celine's oval-frame pair are perfectly placed to go with just about everything in your wardrobe.
Remy Farrell is a London-based shopping editor with nearly 10 years of editorial experience covering fashion, beauty and lifestyle. After graduating with a journalism degree and working on the editorial and fashion teams for titles such as Grazia, Elle, Cosmopolitan and British Vogue, she moved into the luxury e-commerce sector, working as fashion assistant at TheOutnet.com styling for the social media channels and helping to develop the collections for the in-house brand Iris & Ink. After expanding an assisting and styling portfolio that includes shooting talent such as Gigi Hadid, Victoria Beckham and Miquita Oliver, she also branched out into beauty, creating tried-and-tested reviews and diverse beauty content.In her role as shopping editor at Who What Wear, Remy is interested in discovering new and exciting brands to share with the Who What Wear readership and particularly loves uncovering hidden gems at affordable prices to make shopping accessible to everyone.Born and raised in Sheffield, Yorkshire, Remy moved to London in 2014 and lives in the Docklands with her partner and pug Billie.
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