Mix washes and textures to avoid the Canadian tuxedo look. From left, denim on denim looks from Ralph Lauren, Gap and Banana Republic. Photos: Karl Prouse/Catwalking/Getty Images, Gap, Banana Republic
But pairing your jean jacket with jeans? Now, that's a tricky one. Two words: Canadian tuxedo. Shudder. But we saw denim tops paired with denim bottoms on a deluge of spring runways – from Ralph Lauren and Banana Republic to D&G and Chloé. And have you seen Gap's latest campaign? It's all chambray shirts with jeans, denim vests with jeans, denim biker jackets with jeans. Oh, yes, denim is having it's day.
And, sure, the models look cool, but how does the average woman rock the style without looking like a walking fashion faux pas?
"The trick with denim on denim is to make sure you're mixing up both the fabric weights and the washes," says Olivia Doyne, Gap's director of engagement marketing and public relations. "For example, you could pair a light wash, lightweight chambray Western shirt with a medium wash skinny jean."
Jackie Connolly, market editor for Lloyd Boston, admits the denim on denim look is tricky, but says, if done properly, it can come off as undeniably cool.
"If the idea of head-to-toe denim makes you feel a bit uneasy, you're not alone," she tells StyleList. "But if you're determined to follow this trend, try pairing your jeans with a denim top -- make sure it's not the same wash as the pant -- and throw on your favorite blazer. It will add a modern twist to this tonal look while breaking it up a bit."
Here are some denim details to look for while shopping for spring:
The jacket racket: "Deconstructed and heavily washed denim is in right now, which gives jackets a vintage feel," says Lizzie Ross, women's merchandise manager for Old Navy. "Both shrunken and classic silhouettes are still current. Gray denim is the newest trend in colors."
- "Denim jackets are a great alternative to the everyday blazer," Connolly says. "Don't be afraid to try something new -- white denim always looks crisp and fresh. A distressed denim version gives off that '80s vibe. But if that acid-washed look gives you flashbacks, try a more classic version with a cool pair of shorts or a skirt."
- "This spring, we're obsessed with new silhouettes including the denim motorcycle jacket, the denim blazer, and the denim vest," Gap's Doyne says. "White denim is also another big trend so we've introduced a white version of our classic jean jacket."
Beyond jackets and jeans: "The denim vest is making its mark this spring," Connolly says. "It's a fresh take on the jacket and can be worn over a tank, a tee or even a long sleeve top at night, instantly creating a cool downtown vibe. Or pair it over a button-down shirt for a more preppy take."
- "Denim shorts are a trend not to be missed, especially the roll-up style," Ross tells StyleList. "These are great paired with something unexpected like blazer or pretty floral top -- it is the perfect juxtaposition. We're also seeing denim a lot in accessories this spring – bags and shoes are adorable in denim."
- "Denim tops are also on trend this season -- button-down versions have been spotted all over," Connolly says. "The denim dress has also been seen everywhere -- Forever 21 has a great strapless version. Slip on a cardigan or blazer and you're all set."