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Top 10 Must-Have Denim Styles

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Adrianna Arjona Student Contributor, Emory University
Emory Contributor Student Contributor, Emory University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Emory chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Recently, I have developed an appreciation that may slowly be turning into an obsession with denim. Denim is AMAZE. There are so many different kinds of ways to wear it that I never even really considered for my own wardrobe. Don’t worry, I’m here to help you incorporate these denim pieces that are sure to become staples in your own closet. Here are the ten denim pieces every girl should own:

1.  Dark Denim

This classic jean has always been a staple that can be paired with just about anything, and a really amaze pair can be a great day-to-night piece. Rag and Bone is one of my personal favorites for dark wash denim-simple and chic. I’ve thrown these on so many times with a plain white T as I’m rushing to class and this simple combo always looks super cute. Current Elliot also makes great dark wash denim.

2.  Light Denim

Not too long ago I was introduced to light washed jeans. Honestly it was after I saw this pair of Etienne Marcel’s on Instagram that I knew I was in love. The light wash is perfect for the springtime with a cute pair of ballet flats. Etienne Marcels’ light wash skinny jean is my new obsession, the red zipper is what got me hooked – I’m a sucker for an unexpected pop of color. 

3. Jean Jacket

I first explored jean jackets when I purchased one with red leather sleeves, and it has since become my best friend. Basic jean jackets are still killer pieces when plain, but who doesn’t love a leather accentuation. They’re great jackets for springtime because they’re light, casual enough for class, and super easy to pair with almost any outfit. For a basic denim jacket I’d go with Diesel, and for an embellished one I’d pick Maison Scotch.  

4. Boyfriend Jeans

Boyfriend jeans are perfect for that day when you just wanna be super comfy, but still look put together. They give off an “I didn’t try hard to look good this morning, but I do anyways” effortless style. I love a good distressed pair made by Zara or Current Elliot.  

5. Jean Shorts

Jean shorts are super easy to add to your wardrobe because they’re so versatile. I tend to favor ripped pairs (my two favorites are by Free People and Rag and Bone). Sidenote: beware of LBC (lower butt cleavage) some girls like it and can pull it off effortlessly (props to you all!) but for some of us this look just isn’t our best.

6. Distressed Denim

Some people think that ripped jeans can only be worn on very few occasions, but no! Distressed denim can totally be dressed up with the right outfit (and hair and makeup of course). My two faves are Frame and AG.

7. Black Jeans

Black jeans have been my true love for as long as I can remember. Black goes with everything so of course black + denim = <3. I love Vince's and J Brand’s, they’re both great staple pairs. 

8. Colored Jeans

Never underestimate the power of denim, especially when it’s in color. Jeans are made in every single color known to man, and it’s amazing. I’d stick to lighter, subtler hues for the spring, particularly J Brand and Hudson.  

9. Denim Shirt

Denim shirts are actually very comfortable. If you buy the right one it can quickly turn into one of your go-to soft shirts. I personally love wearing mine with a pair of black leggings to the library for those intense study days. Or if you’re a member of the lucky few who can pull of denim on denim then please frequent that outfit and make us all wish we could strut our stuff in that coveted combo. Soft Joie and Acne are both amaze jean shirts. 

10. Jean Leggings

Jean leggings remain close to my heart because they are literally the perfect combo. They remain true to their roots as leggings by being soft and über comfy, but still look classic and put together like jeans. My go-to pairs are Hudson and Rag and Bone. 

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