This item has wafted in and out fashion for decades and we’ve probably all had one at some point. Now more than ever I’m finding the perfect denim jacket an indispensable wardrobe item and have started to encourage most of my clients to get one.
It’s an extremely effective casual cover-up for dresses and skirt ensembles (remember these formulas?). Casual cover-ups like cardigans are sweet and stylish, but a sassy little denim jacket adds easy-going spunk. It’s the perfect way to dress down a dressy frock or skirt. The contrast of the two looks is especially appealing.
You’re after a tailored and relatively short denim jacket. It won’t look cheeky if it’s long and roomy. The back has to be streamlined too. Both dark and light washes will work (dark washes are smart casual whereas lighter washes are casual) and there is room for both in your wardrobe. You also don’t need to stick to the original “Levis Strauss” styling if you’d prefer something else, like a biker or blazer look. I highly recommend a bit of stretch for extra comfort.
Don’t underestimate the power of altering a denim jacket. I have a Diesel denim jacket that’s 10 years old and it looks exactly like the bluefly style (top left above). It is dark denim, stretchy and superbly made. But it was roomy so I had it tailored for $45 about 18 months ago and now it’s perfect. It was money well spent because I’ll have it forever.
Go get a denim jacket if you don’t have one already. I’m declaring it an edgy and versatile item for all body types and age groups. I have clients approaching 70 who are looking sensational in streamlined denim jackets. You can’t go wrong.
An assortment of denim jackets: the “original” denim jacket look, biker styles, faded options, cleaner lines, darker washes, super cropped versions and everything in-between. You’ll pick one up for a song if you look hard enough.
This one is particularly adorable.
