Jeans can be a girl’s best friend. They help you out in a style pinch, comfort you when you’re feeling down and can make you feel fan-freaking-tastic in an instant. Much like your other BFFs, you need to give some time and thought on how to keep them in your life. It’s hard to go wrong with a piece of statement denim and some basic tweed or leather. But we are not just aspiring to avoid a faux pas — we are looking to create a splash.
The best way to make the most of denim is to know what look works on you. If you want to go retro, you can team super flared jeans with a white tee and a printed kimono. If you’re looking for edge, go for double denim, an asymmetrical miniskirt or even a denim tube top.
With these edgy trends, denim is the least basic thing in your wardrobe. Here’s how to make it work for you.
[ Next: Denim Done White: How Celebs Are Wearing White Jeans ]
Best Ways to Wear Denim
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The One-Piece Wonder
Supermodel Elsa Hosk wore a semi-clingy denim bustier dress by Jean Atelier and paired it with a baggy PVC jacket. If you're opting for a denim one-piece, like a jumpsuit or dress, try to introduce another power element, like leather or latex.
Image: Gotham/GC Images/Getty Images
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Go for the Grit
We love the effect of texture in this look. The easiest way to get creative with double denim is to play with silhouettes. The cinched blazer accents the cargo-like, military-style jeans.
Image: Christian Vierig/Getty Images
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Mind the Fit
While colorful jeans are all the rage, you need to be mindful about the fit when opting for statement pieces. This high-rise pair, for instance, is a standard straight-leg number by Jean Atelier. But it can work wonders if you want to accentuate your curves without gasping for air.
Image: @emilenina
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Go Big, Then Go Home
Big pants are in, so huge jeans are predictably taking over street style. The most promising off-duty ensemble features a relaxed pair of jeans and a white shirt. You can also add a scarf or tie for extra flair.
Image: @lindatol_
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Play It as It Lays
Note how this fashionista uses a basic oversized denim jacket to downplay the drama of her ensemble. If you're going for some edgy colorblocking or want to counter the extraness of an outfit, just throw on your favorite denim jacket.
Image: Christian Vierig/Getty Images
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Whatever Works
For all those I-have-nothing-to-wear moments, remember that denim shirts always have your back. This timeless belt and denim look can't possibly let you down. Get creative by adding some thigh-high fringed boots or maybe cowboy boots with metallic accents.
Image: Timur Emek/Getty Images
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Work and Play
Ripped denim skirts aren't just for supermodels. We love the detailing on Sora Choi's anti-trend ensemble — it's classic and edgy at the same time. Basic denim minis were OK for 2018, but for 2019, our hemlines need to get to work.
Image: Matthew Sperzel/Getty Images
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Blue Crush
Hari Nef sports a Proenza Schouler tiered acid-wash denim dress. It's bleach-dying detail is an improvement on tie-dye numbers and we love the relaxed bubble silhouette.
Image: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows
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Triple Trouble
Yes, we're talking triple denim because clearly we're in this trend for the long haul. If you're opting for an intensive jean ensemble like this one, switch up the color scheme ever so slightly instead of opting for different kinds of textures as it makes for a more effortless look.
Image: Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images
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The Miracle Worker
Printed jeans are the gifts we don't deserve. The ultimate boho-meets-city-girl look, heavily printed jeans are in for a major moment ahead.
Image: Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images
