How to Style a Denim Jacket for Men
There are few clothing items that stand the test of time quite like the denim jacket. Evolving from its workwear roots, this versatile layer has earned its status as a wardrobe staple for men that effortlessly transcends trends and seasons. A signature piece for rock stars, workmen and the everyday man alike, a denim jacket is one of the most versatile outerwear pieces that suits every style and occasion. Whether you’re layering up for a crisp autumn morning or looking for a lightweight, effortlessly cool jacket for a summer festival, the humble denim jacket can do it all.
In this guide, we’re diving into everything that makes the denim jacket a must-have item in every modern man’s wardrobe. From finding the perfect wash and fit to tips on the best ways to style it for varying occasions, we’re here to help you make this timeless piece work for your personal style. Featuring iconic jackets from some of your favourite designer menswear brands, keep reading as we explore how to incorporate denim jackets into your daily outfit rotations.
How to style a denim jacket in spring
A denim jacket is a staple for the transitional seasons, and as the spring season approaches you’re guaranteed to find yourself reaching for this jacket time and time again. Light enough for those milder days, but still capable of keeping the chill at bay when the sun dips, a denim jacket will be the hero of your wardrobe in spring. And, when it comes to denim, few do it better than Levi’s. Creating the first denim jacket in the early 1880s, Levi’s are the pioneers of this outerwear classic, with the iconic trucker-style jacket being a must-have in every man’s wardrobe.
Levi’s Trucker Jacket, Dickies Statesville Back Graphic T-Shirt and New Balance 574 Suede Trainers
When it comes to styling a denim trucker jacket for spring, one of the most classic and versatile ways is to pair it with a simple white t-shirt that allows the jacket to do all the talking. If you want to lean into spring’s softer colour palette, you could also choose a more colourful t-shirt in a pastel wash for a fresh, airy vibe that contrasts the denim. Depending on the weather, you could add an additional layer of a lightweight overshirt under the denim for colder spring evenings that also adds visual intrigue to the look.
For bottoms, you could be bold and opt for the double-denim look to keep the look fresh and trendy, or you could play it safe and pair with chinos or cargo pants. Remember that double-denim doesn’t have to mean the same shade of denim, if you want to try it out in a more dialled down way, choose a pair of darker denim jeans with a more classic blue-wash jacket to keep the look feeling modern, not matchy. Add your favourite pair of trainers to complete the look. The beauty of denim is that it acts as a neutral, so you can get creative with your shoe choice and choose something more bold to bring a pop of colour into your look.
How to style a denim jacket in summer
Summer doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice the style of your favourite denim jacket, the key is to know how to style it so you can pull it off without adding unnecessary bulk. Ideal for cooler summer evenings chilling outdoors, or for those unpredictable summer days that require an added layer, a denim jacket is the perfect layer that adds texture and style without overcomplicating your outfit. A lightweight denim such as this Carhartt WIP Harvey Denim Overshirt gives a modern twist on the classic jacket, offering a style that is cut from a lighter, softer denim, making it perfect for warm-weather.
Carhartt WIP Harvey Denim Overshirt, Jack & Jones Bowie Chino Shorts and Napapijri Valdor Graphic T-Shirt
Breathable enough to throw on over a t-shirt on breezy evenings or cooler mornings, this relaxed denim overshirt perfects the laid-back summer look. Pair it with a relaxed t-shirt in a colour that contrasts nicely with the denim, or keep it simple with a crisp white t-shirt with a graphic pop to add a hit of personality while keeping the look easy and effortless. The key is to keep your layers light and breathable so you stay comfortable all day long whilst still achieving a stylish look.
Of course, a pair of shorts is the no-brainer choice when it comes to deciding what bottoms best pair with you denim in summer. A pair of chino shorts will keep things seasonally-appropriate and breathable, whilst also balancing out the ruggedness of denim with a softer, more tailored feel. A neutral shade like beige or black works perfectly, and will give you a versatile palette to work with when it comes to choosing accessories, footwear and graphic prints on your t-shirts. Add your most reliable pair of trainers and sunglasses to finish off this outfit for a go-to summer look that is undeniably stylish.
How to style a denim jacket in autumn
Autumn is another season where the denim jacket steps up as one of your most dependable style staples. As the leaves start turning and the temperature begins to drop slightly, a denim jacket provides the perfect layer to keep the chill at bay whilst keeping your outfit on trend. Styling this piece for autumn requires you to get creative with your layering, pairing the denim with other pieces that balance warmth, texture, and seasonal colours. This Lois Jeans Locomotive Cord Jacket is the perfect autumn denim jacket, with the corduroy texture of the collar adding depth and creating a piece that feels distinctly autumnal without losing its versatility.
Lois Jeans Locomotive Cord Jacket, Dickies Eagle Bend Cargo Trousers and Jack & Jones Bradley Sweatshirt
Underneath the jacket, a sweatshirt acts as the perfect layer giving you that extra warmth needed on brisk days, while keeping the overall look relaxed. We suggest sticking with neutral, earthy tones that complement the colours of the season and the cord detailing. Adding a white t-shirt to peek out the top of the sweatshirt will also add dimension to the look and will make the outfit look more intentional.
Pairing these layers with cargo trousers is the perfect way to tie in the utilitarian design of the denim and cord jacket, while the multiple pockets adding both function and style. A straight or slightly tapered fit for cargos will offset the more oversized style of the denim jacket. Add a pair of rugged combat boots to lean into the seasonal style, or leather trainers to keep the look effortlessly stylish and unmistakably autumn-ready.
How to style a denim jacket in winter
While denim may not seem like the obvious choice for outerwear in the winter, with the ight layers and smart styling, it can be your winter outerwear hero. Layering this jacket with insulating pieces that add warmth and texture to your look will keep the denim jacket style going throughout the winter months. A longline style denim jacket like this Carhartt WIP Double Front Jacket works great for winter, as its heavyweight denim providing protection whilst staying on-trend.
Carhartt WIP Double Front Jacket, GANT Regular Shield Pullover Hoodie and Hunter Chelsea Moc Toe Wellington Boots
Worn over a hoodie to provide a great layer of warmth that creates an effortlessly laid-back look that works great for weekend coffee runs or casual nights out where added insulation is needed in colder months. Stick to a seasonal colour like deep reds or forest greens to keep the outfit on-trend and contrast the denim texture to stand out. Adding functional, weatherproof footwear like a pair of boots will also tie the workwear look of the denim jacket whilst keeping you looking stylish without sacrificing comfort. Boots like these Hunter Chelsea Moc Toe Wellington Boots are robust enough to handle rain, slush, and frost, whilst bridging the gap between practicality and street style.
The trick to making a denim jacket work in winter is to layer smartly with accessories as well as long-sleeve layers. Think chunky scarves, wool beanies, and maybe even a gilet slipped underneath for extra insulation, to turn a classic denim look into a cold-weather uniform.
Find the perfect denim jacket for you at Standout
Feeling inspired to add this classic piece to your wardrobe? Browse through our full collection of men’s designer jackets to find the right denim jacket for you, with a wide selection of timeless and trendy options from some of your favourite big name brands.
