The History of the Denim Jacket
In this guide, you’ll learn how the versatility of a women’s jean jacket truly knows no bounds, offering every woman endless styling opportunities for every season and occasion. But first, let’s take a look at the important history of the denim jacket. It’s an iconic wardrobe staple with origins that date back to the 19th century. You may have heard of Levi’s jeans. Levi Strauss and his partner Jacob Davis are said to be the inventors of the denim jacket back in the 1880s.
The denim jacket was originally designed for laborers and miners as durable workwear. Yet the famed denim jacket quickly became synonymous with practicality, ruggedness, and even style. During the 20th century, the denim jacket evolved from a utilitarian workwear piece to a symbol of counterculture and rebellion. The denim jacket hit the silver screen when it was worn by celebrity figures like James Dean from the movie Rebel Without a Cause. Today, the denim jacket remains a timeless classic, well-loved for its durability, versatility, and ever-enduring fashionable appeal.
Choosing the Right Denim Jacket
Evoke a sense of timeless cool and effortless style by choosing the right denim jacket for you. Figuring out which denim jacket is right for you involves a few different things. First, you want to think about silhouette and proper fit. The denim jacket should flatter your natural body type while allowing for ease of movement. Next, you want to consider different color and wash options to find one that complements your personal style. Some people prefer the classic blue jean jacket, while others prefer a fun, modern twist like a white or black denim jacket. The denim jacket you wear should be able to integrate into your existing wardrobe, so it’s versatile enough to wear multiple times. Little details like stitching and embellishments can elevate your overall look.
Styling Denim Jackets with Shoes
Why not elevate your denim jacket look with a pair of cute heels for everyday sophistication? Sleek stilettos offer a polished and feminine finish, while pumps and block heels offer elevated practicality. For a more casual vibe, try pairing your denim jacket with flats like loafers or low-heeled mules for a bit of laid-back charm. Get that breezy summer aesthetic when you wear sandals like trendy slides or strappy flats. Whether you just want to run out the door in your shoes and denim jacket, or you’re hitting the town and want a look that’s sure to turn heads, you’ll love our list of must-have shoes to pair with your denim jacket.
1. The Abby
The Abby slide is thoughtfully designed with crisscross straps for extra comfort. For a bohemian-inspired look, wear the Abby slides with a flowy maxi dress for that relaxed and feminine silhouette. Get the weekend look by wearing a tucked-in tee and wide-leg trousers with your Abby. Either look can be layered with a denim jacket. The padded insole and cork-like bottom of the Abby make it the perfect shoe for running errands or exploring the city.
2. The Backless Cooper
You can transition from a day-to-night look by swapping sneakers for wedge sandals to give your outfit a summery twist. Looking for your perfect summer day and evening wedge sandal? Say hello to the Backless Cooper. The versatile design of these espadrille wedges offers the perfect blend of style and comfort for any moment. Slip into these double-strap slides as you effortlessly layer with your fave denim jacket. For a casual daytime outfit, wear your Backless Cooper with distressed jeans, a graphic tee, and your denim jacket. For a dressier evening or brunch look, pair a midi dress or a skirt and blouse with your denim jacket.
3. The Benjamin
The Benjamin sandals seamlessly blend comfort and style to make them the perfect match for your denim jacket look. The cork-like heel of the Benjamin offers a bit of sophistication, while the padded insole ensures your feet will stay comfy all day. Put your feet into these crisscross ankle-strap sandals and pair them with distressed jeans, a simple tee, and a denim jacket for a relaxed daytime look. Enjoy exploring new cities or strolling through town when you wear the Benjamin. You can dress up these sandals with a flowy sundress or a tank top and maxi skirt for that summer picnic or Sunday brunch look.
4. The OBX
InStyle shares that because the texture of a denim jacket is inherently a casual textile, you can keep it casual or dress it up with heels. For a heel that’s the perfect blend of dressy yet casual, try our OBX. The closed-toe wedge is designed for the ultimate comfort, pairing effortlessly with your denim jacket for style and practicality. Our bunion-friendly OBX wedges with a 2” covered wedge heel add height without sacrificing comfort. Enjoy details like the padded insole for all-day wearability. For a casual daytime look, wear the OBX with a button-up shirt, cropped jeans, and your denim jacket. Dress up your OBX with a denim skirt and blouse to get a little denim-on-denim.
5. The Rita
You don’t need to sip on a Margarita to enjoy the go-to wedge of the spring and summer: the Rita! Our chic wedges are specially designed with an instep strap and crisscross straps for both style and comfort. Meet your new perfect companion for your next denim jacket outfit. Allow your feet to relax in these bunion-friendly wedges. Style your laid-back daytime look with a flowy blouse and palazzo pants, adding a statement necklace for a touch of elegance. Dress up your denim jacket look with a midi skirt and off-the-shoulder top. Accessorize with understated accessories. The faux-espadrille wedge of the Rita adds a trendy twist as you enjoy day-to-night comfort.
Enhancing Your Look with Accessories
Take your denim jacket look to the next level with the right accessories. Remember — the key to accessorizing is less is more. Carefully choosing accessories that match your personality and style can help enhance your look without totally overwhelming your outfit. Try cinching your waist with a stylish belt to create definition and accentuate your silhouette. Mix your denim jacket with different textures, like layering it over a silk or velvet dress. Add a pop of color with a scarf or bandana draped around your neck or tied to your purse. Stacked bracelets and chunky necklaces act as statement pieces to take your look from casual to chic. Top off your denim jacket with a fun hat like a classic baseball cap or a wide-brimmed sun hat to add that finishing touch to your ensemble.
Layering Techniques
Because a jean jacket can be worn through all the seasons, it’s important to know how to layer stylish women’s clothing to create a cohesive look all year long. Add versatility and another dimension to your look by considering the base of your outfit. Begin with lightweight pieces such as tank tops or t-shirts for a casual vibe. For transitional seasons, wear a sweater or hoodie underneath your denim jacket. Playing around with various colors and textures is a fun way to switch up your denim look. Mix and match different lengths and styles to create varied silhouettes. Mastering the art of layering enhances the overall utility of your denim jacket so you can wear it from your relaxed weekend outing with your family to that celebratory night out with your best girlfriends.
Conclusion
After reading this guide, we hope we’ve increased your love and appreciation for the classic denim jacket. One of the best things about wearing a jean jacket is that it easily dresses up or down any outfit. Wear a nice dress? Add a pair of fashionable sneakers and a denim jacket to turn your work outfit into a ready-for-brunch weekend dress. Dress up your usual sweats or leggings by pairing your denim jacket with fitted joggers and a low wedge heel. In the world of fashion, it’s all about the perfect pairing, so slip into your favorite Charleston Shoe Co., throw on your denim jacket, and let your style shine!
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