How to make a statement in double denim

Trends come and go, their impact often fleeting but no style moment has left such a lasting impression as Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake in double denim. 

Arriving to the American Music Awards in coordinating jean looks, the photo of them in chambray is the resounding image of early noughties fashion. I mean, over two decades later and we’re still talking about it… to quote John Legend, “Denim on denim on denim on denim, that will never be forgotten!” Here here. 

Last year, Julia Fox and the artist formerly known as Kanye West revived the trend, making their official red carpet couple debut in all denim ensembles – him in an oversized Balenciaga look, her in a cropped Schiaparelli jacket and low rise jeans. Their romance was short-lived, but the outfits? They live on. In fact, The Sydney Herald was so impressed, that journalist Damien Woolnough claimed “double denim is Kanye West’s revenge dress”. That might be a bit of a stretch but it did make quite the statement. 

This year, double denim has cemented its place on the annual fashion forecast once again. 

But before you wiggle your way into your favourite pair of jeans, first some housekeeping; opt for different shades so as to create contrast – if you do go with the same wash on top and bottom, stick to more structured silhouettes so your outfit looks tailored (a buttoned up shirt tucked into high waisted jeans cinches you in, creating the illusion that you’re wearing a boiler suit as opposed to separates), don’t be afraid of coloured denim (grey, white, red, etc.), pay attention to fit and have fun with proportions (cropped, wide-leg, etc.). Ok, that’s it.

Here are some of our favourite pieces to help you nail double denim this season. 

Jeans

No one likes shopping for jeans – it’s a long and tiresome task that usually ends in tears, but needs must and it’s all worth it once you find a pair that fit you just right.

Shirts

A good denim shirt will see you through all of life’s seasons. An oversized style in a darker wash is my personal preference, but there’s one for just about every taste these days. Don’t sleep on vintage shops either, they’re havens for perfectly aged Levi versions.

Jackets

Jean jackets are cool at any age – whether you’re a teenager heading off to your first disco, or a twenty-something dressing for the weather you want, not the weather you have.

Pencil skirts

There’s something effortlessly elegant about a pencil skirt – the cinched-in waist and shapely silhouette is glam without trying too hard, perfect for the office. For a more relaxed look, denim is the way to go. Pair with platform sandals, your trusted Birkenstocks or your favourite runners for maximum comfort.

Coloured denim

If double denim scares you, test the waters with a coloured set instead. Pink, red, pastel, even cream or light grey – anything goes.

Feature image via @jen_wonders, @monikh, @gigihadid. We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.