For a lot of us, jeans are undeniably our most-worn wardrobe item. I, for one, turn to my trusty blues again and again, especially during late summer and autumn on those busy mornings when I need to throw on a reliably easy but chic outfit. When the weather is hit or miss or in transitional seasons, jeans just seem to always work, and you can then add or take away layers depending on what the day holds.
The problem is, when we wear something so much, it can often get a little tired or boring, even when it’s as classic as denim. It can also be the case that when you’re returning to your old favourite jeans after a summer of linen and dresses, you just need to jog your memory on some winning combos. Either way, I find what helps me get excited about jeans again is having a nosy at how some of the most stylish people out there are wearing theirs right now for inspiration. So below, you’ll find 12 of the best jeans outfits I’ve spotted recently from my research (i.e., scrolling through Instagram incessantly). These are the easy but incredibly chic looks I’ve added to my Saved folder, all shoppable for you to copy this season.
Style Notes: Nautical stripes and denim go together like bread and butter. It’s a go-to combination of mine, and this sleeveless-knit-and-cropped-flare pairing makes a nice change to my usual long-sleeve Breton and straight-leg option. Simply add a blazer or classic coat on cooler days.
A twist of the classic striped knit, this sleeveless jumper will look great as is or worn over shirts and blouses.
The perfect mid-blue wash.
These boots will go with just about everything in your wardrobe.
Style Notes: Looking for an easy way to make your jeans outfits a touch cosier? Opt for relaxed-fit black jumper and stick to ballet flats until we find ourselves in full-on autumn mode.
I promise this will be your go-to knit for this autumn and beyond.
Loose-fitting jeans are so popular right now.
I love the classic bow detail on these ballet flats.
Style Notes: A tweed jacket is a surefire way to make your autumn outfits look polished. Adding a sleek pair of mid-blue jeans and some black loafers make this French girl–approved look even more elevated and perfect for smarter occasions like work meetings.
Style Notes: A thick cotton shirt is an easy transitional layer that not only beats the chill but also streamlines your look in the same way as a blazer. You can bet I’ll be wearing this every weekend from now until the temperature drops enough to justify a coat.
Shirts are a great layering option simply because you can add knits on top or a long-sleeved tee underneath.
H&M’s jeans are a favourite of the Who What Wear team.
You can never go wrong with heeled ankle boots…
Style Notes: You can’t go wrong with the classics. The trench coat and jumper slung over the shoulders make this outfit feel “fashion”, but it’s still simple enough to be your most-worn look all season.
I love how Arket has styled this trench.
Buy now, love forever.
Canvas kicks are perfect for wearing between seasons.
Style Notes: Add interest to your jeans look by tucking them into your boots. A cropped jacket helps add a further stylish flair.
How chic is this? Dress it up with heels and leather trousers or wear as above.
I love COS’s denim collection. This straight-leg jeans will work hard in your wardrobe year round.
Riding boots are having a moment, and this pair is one of the best I’ve seen on the high street.
Style Notes: An old-school combination that never fails. Pair two slightly different denim washes together for a 2023 update, like Amaka has done here.
I love the easy-going fit of this jacket.
Straight-leg jeans are always a wise investment.
Editors, influencers and fashion girls can’t get enough of Birkenstock’s Boston clogs.
Style Notes: Okay, this might not be the most groundbreaking combination, but Lorna’s look is a reminder that it doesn’t take anything out of the ordinary to make a really special outfit. In fact, you probably own all these wardrobe staples already. The key here is in the clean basics, subtle layering and smart accessories.
A beige or camel blazer is the best option for maximising its wearability.
Wear under blazers, cardigans and jumpers.
A cropped leg helps show off your fabulous footwear.
Long-time bestsellers for a reason.
Style Notes: As we all know, jeans can be the perfect foundation to a great evening look. Make like Tamara and pair your favourite black jeans with a body before adding luxe accessories.
I love the sweetheart neckline on this knitted body.
These jeans will go with all your staples.
The perfect day to night crossbody bag.
Style Notes: Ecru jeans are big news right now, and Lydia makes them work for autumn by balancing them out with a cosy striped cardigan. Come November, you could always switch the heels out for a loafer or ankle boot as well.
I’ll wear this with jeans but also over LBDs with knee-high boots.
The ultimate ecru jeans, if you ask me.
These are high on my wish list right now.
Style Notes: Chrissy has nailed the Princess Diana–inspired, smart-casual jeans outfit here. Cowboy boots are once again big news for autumn, and this is a great way to incorporate them into your denim wardrobe. A more traditional checked blazer on top balances the whole look perfectly.
A check blazer is surprisingly versatile. Wear over white, grey, tan and black knits or tops.
This vintage fit will add a touch of effortless cool to every look.
Aren’t these cowboy boots just fabulous?
Style Notes: My favourite thing about autumn wardrobes, apart from being able to wear jeans again, might be the jacket selection. Whether you opt for a longer-length trench, ’90s-style blazer or classic aviator, it will always make your denim look cool and polished at the same time.
A layering basic that will 100% prove its worth in the colder months.
One of our editors’ favourite white tees.
I’m all for the resurgence of wide-leg denim.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
