When I think about jean jackets, I can’t help but have intense flashbacks to my middle school days, when the only jacket I ever wore was my bleach stained, slightly frayed denim jacket from Limited Too. Yet nearly a decade later, I’m contemplating this question: are jean jackets a classic look that is still wearable, or are they a trend that should stay put in the past?
Though I cringe thinking about the outfits I wore with my very worn jean jacket, I’m compelled to say that when purchased with thought and worn properly, a jean jacket can be a great addition to any collegeiette’s wardrobe. So whether you’ve already got one hanging in your closet or are looking for a light spring jacket to invest in, here are some thoughts on how to properly rock that denim jacket.
For starters, my number one rule is wear no other denim. Whether you call it a Canadian Tuxedo or a fashion disaster, wearing jeans and a jean jacket is an absolute no go. I don’t care if the denim of your jacket matches the denim of your jeans or is a completely different wash, head to toe denim is not something that is, or ever will be, fashionable.
Instead, pair your denim with a spring dress, black bottoms (pants, shorts or leggings) or khakis. Heading to the beach for an evening bonfire? Catching a movie then grabbing ice cream with some friends? Avoid throwing on that same old cardigan or zip up and grab your jean jacket instead. It’s a relatively thick layer that will keep you warm, but is still perfect for spring or summer. The same way blazers can be worn with jeans to dress up your look, jean jackets are a perfect way of dressing down any ensemble. You can pair fancier tops – maybe that gorgeous silk patterned top you usually wear with a suit skirt, or a tank with pretty lace and bead detailing – with denim to make any look a bit more casual.
My favorite look is black, mid-thigh length shorts paired with a loose silk top and a denim jacket. Throw on a long necklace and your favorite flats and you’ve got the perfect outfit!
Just as importantly, keep in mind the wash of your jacket – wear a darker wash with lighter prints or colors and vice versa. My advice on this one is to purchase a jacket that’s a medium wash, that way it’s incredible versatile. I love this Levi’s Trucker Jacket (pictured above) in the “Sweet on Blue” wash.
When purchasing a jean jacket, avoid the cropped version and any extra embroidery or bedazzling. That may have been cool on the elementary school playground, but it gives a young, immature appearance to your look which you definitely want to avoid. Go for a more classic look by getting a jacket that has the standard brass buttons and pockets – any extra gadgets, pockets or zippers are just unnecessary.
Lastly, find a jacket that is fitted to your body type. You don’t want a jacket that is so tight you can’t button it, but you also don’t want one that is so big you’re drowning in denim.
So now that you’ve read my advice, here are a few of my favorite jean jackets from retailers across the country.
J-Brand 400 Denim Jacket – $143
A bit of a more washed out denim look, I love the brass buttons and detailed stitching down the front of the jacket. A great go to!
Old Navy Women’s Denim Jacket – $29.50
This jacket, in a gorgeous blue wash, is a perfect addition to any wardrobe. The side pockets are great for actual use, and the style is fitted, simple and sleek. And for only $30, if you only wear it a handful of times you don’t have to feel guilty about it!
Banana Republic Textured Military Jacket – $130
Okay, so this isn’t exactly a jean jacket, but this indigo wash blazer can absolutely be worn with the same purpose. I love the khaki buttons and the giant side pockets – a great way to mix it up!
“The Mechanic” Denim Jacket – $298
Okay, so this one may be a little bit out of your price range, but I just had to include it. I love the thinner denim that this jacket uses – it almost gives the apperance of a denim overshirt without looking to loose or sloppy. I also love the look this model is pulling off – a silky white dress with a denim jacket is a perfect summer look!
So what about you ladies? Other ideas or pieces of advice for how to rock a denim jacket? Links to your favorite ones of the season? Share your thoughts!