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HOW TO STYLE A DENIM SHIRT: GREAT IDEAS FOR BOTH MEN AND WOMEN

Like their blue-jean cousins, the best denim shirts are versatile and easy to style, perfect for smart-casual looks that don’t compromise on comfort. 

Learning how to style a denim shirt starts with a basic understanding of the colors, materials, and accessories that work best with this favorite fabric. Once you have that down, it’s easy to create a flattering jean-shirt outfit that puts a designer spin on this all-time classic.

HOW TO WEAR A DESIGNER DENIM SHIRT

Denim may be casual and comfortable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t dress it up a bit. Here are six of our favorite ways to style a denim shirt:

Denim on denim

Sometimes referred to as the Canadian tuxedo, matching denim tops and bottoms is considered one of the coolest pairings today. From tight-cropped shirts and baggy low-cut jeans to relaxed button-downs and skinny five-pocket pants, an all-denim ensemble never fails to make a statement. For a ’90s-inspired outfit, let a white T-shirt peek out from beneath a long-sleeve denim top, finishing off the look with gold or silver jewelry and black combat boots.

Denim shirt with white jeans

A light denim shirt and white jeans pair well with accessories in brown tones and natural materials, such as wood, bamboo, palm leaf, wicker, and leather. Complete this look with a beaded wooden handbag or brown leather crossbody bag

Denim button-down shirt and well-tailored trousers

Tuck button-down denim into cream or beige belted trousers for an elevated equestrian style. Roll up the sleeves on warmer days, or add a blazer for cooler temps. Round out the Western look with a pair of cowboy or riding boots worn under or over the cuff.

Denim and florals

A blue denim button-up and floral skirt or black denim shirt and dark blossom-embellished jeans pay the perfect homage to spring. Accentuate the florals with jet-black accessories like leather handbags, dress shoes, and sunglasses.

Denim and khaki pants

Pairing a denim top with khakis is one of the most classic denim-shirt outfits. Opt for a long-sleeve button-down worn open over a white tank top, and complete the look with oxidized silver jewelry and boot sneakers.

Dark denim and animal print

Dark denim shirts and animal prints create an alluring safari-inspired style. Choose an inky black wash for the top, pairing it with jaguar, giraffe, zebra, or croc-printed pants. If embellished pants are out of your comfort zone, play with patterns on designer accessories, such as silk scarves and bags. Tie it all together with a straw hat and woven dress loafers.

5 OF THE BEST WOMEN’S DENIM SHIRTS

We’ve rounded up some of the best designer brands that represent a fresh take on women’s denim tops—whether you’re looking for a structured contemporary cut or a soft, flowing style.

Toteme

Toteme Slim Denim Shirt

Based in Stockholm, Toteme is known for minimalist aesthetics and meticulous craftsmanship. Their slim denim shirt in dark indigo features contour darts, giving the otherwise simple design an original look. Complement this look with straight-cut black jeans, kitten heels, and understated earrings.

The Row

The Row is celebrated for timeless, elegant ready-to-wear and accessories. The label’s white oversized denim shirt is a testament to everlasting silhouettes with a laid-back fit and spread collar. Pair the shirt with a plain linen or floral-patterned skirt, mules, and a structured handbag.

Saint Laurent

Saint Laurent is renowned for groundbreaking styles and superior construction. Pair a belted-denim lace-up Saint Laurent top with wide-leg jeans, black booties, and silver dome hoops and rings.

Ksubi

Ksubi is an Australian label renowned for its signature denim and progressive designs. Try a stone-washed Ksubi denim shirt with tapered jeans, faux leather pants, or a denim mini-skirt.

Boyish

California-based Boyish is known for its sustainable women’s denim and vintage silhouettes. The “Ace” Western-style denim shirt with contrasting trim and arrow accents pairs perfectly with white jeans, Western-style boots, and a buckle belt.

5 FLATTERING MEN’S DENIM SHIRTS

Meet five monumental denim brands that reinterpret the style with a modern twist.

PRPS

PRPS Men's Washed Denim Snap-Front Western Shirt - Noir Collection

New York-based PRPS is a luxury denim brand distinguished by sturdy designs for the man on the move. The two-toned denim shirt with distressed accents and stitching is an original and edgy interpretation of a classic Western shirt. The inventive style pairs well with ripped jeans and sneakers.

Hudson

Founded in 2002, Hudson is a true pioneer of premium denim and is known for creating effortless designs with a rebellious attitude. Their lightweight denim sport shirt is washed and splattered with paint for a stylish lived-in feel. Pair this style with white jeans, sneakers, and a plain tee.

Diesel

Diesel is well known for high-quality denim and durable casual wear. Their pure denim shirt is ideal for understated outfits, striking the perfect balance between polished and easygoing. Complete the look with straight-cut blue jeans and brown Chelsea boots.

Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren is famous for bespoke men’s suiting, timeless ready-to-wear garments, and clean cuts. Their barrel-cuffed Western shirt is a tailored design that works well with ivory trousers, brown cowboy boots, and a matching belt.

Rails

Founded in Los Angeles, Rails merges comfy Californian design with sleek sophistication. The dark indigo-washed denim shirt features a relaxed fit ideal for lazy days or adventures. Pair it with joggers and your favorite sneakers or trousers and a polished watch.

DENIM FOR DAYS

Whether searching for a flattering pair of jeans or a stylish jean jacket, you’ll find a wide assortment of exquisite denim pieces at Neiman Marcus. Discover our range of designer coats for more stylish outwear or book an in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor for one-on-one guidance on how to style a denim shirt.