There are few pieces as versatile as the jean jacket. It pairs with just about every colour [1], plays nicely with various textures, and comes in different silhouettes to easily complement several body shapes [2] and style types.
However, denim is undoubtedly associated with a more casual, laid-back look, so when it comes to dressing it up, we typically spend a bit more brainpower assembling outfits that feel more elevated. If you're in the same boat, sift through today's roundup of street style inspiration [3] to find out how you can give your favourite jean jacket an upgrade and shop our favourites to get the look.
Draped Over Your Shoulders
Forego the traditional sleeve and drape your jacket over your shoulders for an instantly elegant look.
Styled With a Denim Skirt
As strange as it may seem, sometimes adding more denim to denim can steer your jean jacket in an elevated direction. White ankle boots don't hurt, either.
In a Color Palette
Style your jean jacket with a blue poplin button down and mustard trousers for a style-forward color moment.
Over a Spring Dress
Sometimes all you need is your favorite jean jacket and a printed spring dress.
Worn With Trendy Pieces
If your jacket is feeling drab, put it next to of-the-moment items, like a cool blouse.
Just Add Heels
Do your best denim tuxedo and don't forget to polish things off with a pair of statement heels.
Worn Asymmetrically
Instead of pulling it on all of the way, button the bottom button on your jean jacket and let the shoulders slide off a little.
Play With Proportions
A fitted jean jacket looks extra interesting when styled with voluminous trousers.
Opt for a Darker Wash
Invest in a dark wash jean jacket that typically looks more expensive than its lighter counterparts.
Try a New Style
Search for a jean jacket with unexpected details, like a belt or flared sleeves.
A.P.C. Blouse Cherry Jacket
You'll wear this A.P.C. Blouse Cherry Jacket [4] ($355) for years to come.
H&M Denim Jacket
Hurry! Snag this H&M Denim Jacket [5] ($20, previously $40) before it sells out.
Need Oversized Denim Jacket
Trust us: you need this Need Oversized Denim Jacket [6] ($195).
M.i.h Jeans Lebrun Jacket
We're smitten with the wash on this M.i.h Jeans Lebrun Jacket [7] ($325).
Sunday Best Edo Jacket
Looking for a slim fit iteration? Look no further than the Sunday Best Edo Jacket [8] ($98).
Re/Done Reconstructed Jean Jacket
You'll never feel underdressed in this Re/Done Reconstructed Jean Jacket [9] ($823).
Levi’s Original Trucker Jacket
When denim is involved, you can't go wrong with Levi's Original Trucker Jacket [10] ($70).
Khaite Cate Jacket
The Khaite Cate Jacket [11] ($580) is the kind of piece you can wear with an evening look and to run errands on the weekend — it's that versatile.
Madewell Reconstructed Jean Jacket
Try a raw-hem sleeve, like the one on Madewell's Reconstructed Jean Jacket [12] ($50, previously $148).