Denim has an eternal appeal that transcends time, age and appearance. It has been adapted over time to suit all styles. Since the 17th century, denim has been converted into just about anything. A writer from the magazine American Fabrics said in 1969 that “denim is one of the world’s oldest fabrics, yet it remains eternally young”. Find the right colour, style and fit and your outfit opportunities will be endless with the denim shirt.

Firstly, the most important thing when investing in a denim shirt is to make sure the fit is spot on. The sizing is very important, too big and baggy will give you a slouchy undesired effect, even if you are looking for an oversized aesthetic it’s best not to go to large.

Here are a few of our favourite denim shirts;

How to Wear With;

Chinos
Possibly the easiest way to style with a denim shirt is with chinos. No matter what colour chino you opt for, it will match perfectly with either a light or dark wash denim shirt. Darker coloured chinos tend to match better with light and opposite for light colours they work better with dark but don’t rule out mixing light with light etc. You can create a minimalist yet statement look by keeping your shirt tucked in and finished off with a pair or brogues or loafers for a great summer outfit.

Jeans
Now jeans are slightly trickier to style. Double denim is one of those trends you either love it or hate it. But styled correctly and you can nail this trend. Go for similar shades to create a unique, unified look, if you aren’t a fan of double denim, there is still a way to get around it. Try colour contrasting your jeans with your shirt, like the chinos styling, if you wear a pair of dark wash jeans then match up with a light blue denim shirt and opposite for lighter coloured jeans. Finish this look off with a pair of converse for a cool casual appearance.

Shorts
Matching shorts with a denim shirt is like a match made in heaven, it will be your go to essential this summer. When pairing with shorts make sure to go for a lightweight denim that won’t leave you sweltering in the summer months. Add some converse and aviators to finish off the look.

Other Ways to Style Your Denim Shirt

For a laid-back look layer your denim shirt over a simple white tee, keeping the shirt buttons undone so it doesn’t look restricted. If you aren’t sure about the different colours keep in toned down with black jeans or chinos. Try adding a denim jacket on top for a real denim layered look but make sure it’s a contrasting colour so that your shirt still stands out underneath.

The leather jacket is a great statement piece and a must have for any man’s wardrobe so paired with a denim shirt just makes sense. The leather compliments the denim harmoniously and makes for a good mix of contrasting textures. Wear your denim shirt open with a white tee jeans and layered with your favorite leather jacket.

When you think of denim you don’t particularly think of it to be number one choice for formal wear, but with all the right pieces you can create some unconventional edgy outfit.  For a more casual approach start with jeans, ditch the oxford shirt and replace with a denim shirt and finish the look off with a tweed blazer, or for those warmer summer days, try opting for a lightweight linen blazer. If you’re going all out formal, then add some smart slim fit trousers, blazer and tie. Make sure you go for a slim fit shirt if you go for this look so it’s thin enough to layer up.

The denim shirts versatility and timeless appeal means it is truly deserving to be an essential to every man’s wardrobe.