If there is any item in our wardrobe that makes getting ready in the morning easier, it has to be a pair of jeans. Whether it's a cold winter morning or a bright and sunny spring, jeans are our go-to for very good reason; The easy, throw-on-and-go piece doesn't require much fuss, but given that we wear them day-in, day-out, they can sometimes feel a little bit "samey". The right pair of jeans can elevate even the most simple white t-shirt into something premium, but if you're looking for an outfit that says "I'm in the know", there is one place that we turn to for denim styling inspiration.
The streets of London are Britain's fashion epicentre, and the capital's best dressed know how to take a wardrobe staple like jeans, and spin it into something Instagrammable. After a deep dive into the feeds of some of our favourite influencers, stylists, and editors, I've pinpointed the 8 key pieces that I saw time and again, paired with jeans of every cut, colour and wash. Whether you're wondering what to wear to work, dressing up for evening, or just putting together a simple yet stylish weekend look, here's what people in the capital are wearing with jeans now. Get ready to screenshot.
1. JEANS AND A BLAZER
Style Notes: What did we wear before someone came up with pairing a blazer and jeans? Here Marilyn masters the "2X2 outfit formula" that always works–2 dressy pieces (the blazer and leather bag), with 2 casual pieces (jeans and trainers), and the result is the perfect mix of high/low dressing.
SHOP THE LOOK:
We can't get enough of this perfectly cut jacket.
Not a fan of an ultra high-waist? These have a regular waist but longer hem for leg-lengthening effect.
Once again, the high-street has nailed runway tailoring.
A slim jean is the perfect accompaniment to a boxy blazer.
2. JEANS AND LOAFERS
Style Notes: Summer and sunsets, pasta and cheese, some things are match-made in heaven, and jeans and a pair of loafers are undoubtedly on the list. Loafers are the best shoe to wear all year round so you know you're making a wise investment, and as Kim Turkington proves, the polished style brings elegance to even a chunky turtleneck and indigo denim.
PSA: Zara's Boyboy fit jeans are about to become a cult favourite.
I can't think of a single outfit that these loafers wouldn't make immeasurably better.
The perfect length to give your loafers chance to shine.
Fingers crossed that these are a mainstay on the COS website, both the black and cream colourways look designer.
3. JEANS AND A LEATHER TRENCH COAT
Style Notes: It's fair to say that dressing for British weather isn't always the easiest, and after an unseasonably cold spring (was that snow?), it pays to be prepared for anything–enter the leather trench. Warm, waterproof, and lighter than a shearling or puffer coat, this is the ideal transitional layer to dress up blue jeans.
SHOP THE LOOK:
It's true, it is faux leather, but it certainly doesn't look like it.
How to do distressed jeans the "grown up" way.
Maximalists, there's no need to settle for black. There are more coloured leather options on the market than ever right now.
The fit is great, but it's the faded indigo wash that make these feel even cooler.
4. JEANS AND A CARDIGAN
Style Notes: Thanks to Katie Holmes Khaite bradigan moment in 2019, the cardigan has had a whole new lease of life. It's fashionable reinvention has been long overdue, and we're happy to get behind any trend this cute and cosy. Just add a straight leg and a chunky boot to channel Lucy's laidback weekend uniform.
SHOP THE LOOK:
This also comes in an on-trend hot-red colourway, but you'll be able to wear the biscuitty, mole shade with everything in your wardrobe.
Flattering shaping jeans for a smoother silhouette? Sign me up.
Collared cardigans are easiest way to meet a smart/casual dress code.
If you haven't already tried Boden's newly re-launched denim styles, these are an excellent introduction.
5. JEANS AND A BOMBER JACKET
Style Notes: Cool girls all agree, the bomber jacket has been having a moment. From the Frankie Shop classic to that Loewe leather bomber, everyone from A-lister to influencers are wearing this voluminous jacket, and their favourite piece to style it with? A loose legged jean.
SHOP THE LOOK:
After a hiatus, this satin bomber is back in stock, so act fast before it sells out again.
A high-street hidden gem.
A fashion-forward take on the casual staple.
Black denim deserves credit for it's sheer versatility. It's the easiest jean to dress up for evening, and keep casual with trainers.
6. JEANS AND A STATEMENT COAT
Style Notes: It's spring (even if it doesn't feel like it), and we've been waiting for a reason to dress up in the bursts of colour and print that the season celebrates. On first glance Basma's elegant colour blocking looks like luxe tailoring, but take a closer look and you'll realise just how easily raw denim can be styled up.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Only The Row could come up with a tomato red coat that still feels understated.
Pair with cream or white denim to keep the look fresh and light.
If you thought this was designer, I wouldn't blame you.
You have to be confident you've crafted the perfect pair of jeans to call them the "favourite cut".
7. JEANS AND POINTED LEATHER ANKLE BOOTS
Style Notes: Back to accessories, and there is a clear winner for the most worn shoe and jean combo in fashion–the leather ankle boot. Last year we were Chelsea boot obsessed (and, the chunkier the better), but this spring we're looking forward to chic, pointy boots that work for evening too.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Kick flare jeans will give you plenty of room to zip up a sleek ankle boot.
Toteme have managed to design a timeless, wearable boot that will never go out of style.
A second feature of the Boyboy jeans, but this time in indigo (they really are that good).
Black or cream, Black or cream... Maybe we'll take both.
8. JEANS AND A DENIM JACKET
Style Notes: We called it, and Oluwaseun proves it, double denim is back and better than ever. Matching hues are great, but we also love shade clashing and creating volume with nipped waist jackets or baggy, loose jeans.
SHOP THE LOOK:
One of the chicest denim jackets you'll find on the high-street.
A straight legged, medium blue jean is the O.G.
You had me at the rolled up sleeves.
Straight cut but with a little extra room.
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