Denim is arguably one of the most versatile fabrics out there, with an endless range of shades spanning from dark wash to acid. It also spans the gamut when it comes to stretchiness, distress level, and color ways. Denim garments come in just as many options, including denim dresses—from maxi to mini, shredded to patchwork, and pleated to pressed.
In fact, they're back in a big way, with celebrities like Katie Holmes favoring the style for New York City strolls, Michelle Obama reaching for her midi-length iteration for the U.S. Open, and Heidi Klum and Anne Hathaway taking jean gowns to the red carpet.
The go-to piece truly looks so new when styled with cowboy boots for a touch of western flair, over a button-down for a bit of businesscore, or with statement jewelry for an ooze of glamour. But, that's just a few ideas. Ahead, check out 9 ways to style denim dress outfits year round.
Ready For Combat
When denim is involved, even the slinkiest, more feminine silhouettes have a touch of edge. Lean into the coolness of jeans with a chunky, unexpected black combat boot. It'll turn the alt all the way up.
Take The Plunge
Long denim dresses always run the risk of swallowing your figure and wearing you, but not when styled with flair. Allow Kerry Washington to deliver the masterclass. Leaving the frock unbuttoned at the top and cinched to the gods with a statement belt allows you to undeniably own the piece. A structured shoulder is always a plus, as it helps accentuate the figure.
Red Carpet Ready
Denim might be your go-to when you want something casual, but don't underestimate the material. Nicole Scherzinger takes the fabric from a thing of errands to the red carpet with a figure-hugging silhouette, sky-high stilettos, and jewelry galore.
Popping Prints
Denim is basically a neutral, a blank canvas—so make it yours and introduce your personality by incorporating your favorite print or pattern. Take a walk on the wild side with cheetah print, lean into your whimsy with polka dots, add some quirkiness with stripes—the world is our oyster.
Blazer It Up
Adding a blazer to a casual outfit is a surefire way to level up the sophistication. That same business casual vibe can be carried over to your favorite denim dress. Add a pair of chunky platforms to create some contrast with the menswear-inspired blazer of your choice and experiment with oversized fits.
Socks And Sandals
There's something all-American about a denim dress, which makes it an ideal centerpiece for a denim outfit that explores and subverts other aesthetics, like this updated Y2K take on the socks and sandals combo. It's an ideal denim dress outfit idea for when you want to look put together in a flash.
Make A Statement
Move over, charm bracelets. Charm belts are back and make the perfect accessory to pair with a denim minidress. You can create a more cohesive, elevated look by adding jewelry in a similar finish to your statement belt, or let it stand on its own by toning down the rest of your look with neutral accessories.
Streetwear Sneaks
For the ultimate comfy denim outfit that still serves main character energy, you can't go wrong with a pair of statement sneakers and an oversized denim shirt dress. Don't fear a boxy fit with this look; the looseness of a denim shirtdress contrasts beautifully with the structure of the sneakers.
Throw On A Bomber
Bomber jackets are a staple, and there's no better way to show off your fave than by wearing it over a dark-wash denim dress. While oversized outerwear continues to draw celebrity attention this year, you don't need a voluminous silhouette to make this look stand out.
