This Season, Denim Pants Need to Be Firm, Smart and Straight

A curious event took place at the latest Venice movie festival: a renowned star appeared in blue jeans. Typically, a film festival premiere entrance implies flowing fabrics and sparkle, revealed décolletage and long gowns. However the actress selected dark premium denim paired with a pale striped shirt and a tailored blazer. And, while admittedly that if you possess a world-famous expression, your attire doesn't have to work as hard – still. It marked a significant event. A new era of looking smart in denim pants has arrived.

Most of us tend to be conflicted regarding denim wear. They serve as our go-to option on a Saturday, but when the occasion calls to appear polished, we reach for an alternative. However jeans, paired appropriately, can bring you to work or a nice restaurant with plenty of style. Additionally, the majority don't have to worry too much about the red carpet, in the end.

A blazer combined with jeans as a bold lip is to a bare face. The pairing creates an outfit feel intentional and thoughtful, which radiates poise.

We'll open with the basics. Should your denim sag at the joints or drag on the floor, no amount of elegant top wizardry will save the ensemble. Sophisticated trousers are centered on defined shapes, excellent fit and a cut that enhances you. The very loose denim presently everywhere these days can look excellent elevated for casual parties. Yet for a look that comes across as semi-formal, a tailored cut hits the perfect tailoring-adjacent vibe, and the hem ought to rest just at the upper part of your shoe. Streamlined trousers are helpful because they are able to maintain decorum in public. Should tailored denim were personified, they would be punctual and polite, extremely efficient. This explains why they are your companion here.

The most common blunder we commit when trying to look smart in denim is to try to play down the denim. When you choose boring denim trousers and conceal them with a stylish top up top in the expectation that not a soul will see you are sporting denim, you don't disguise the jeans – you seem cobbled together, which is not the intention at all. An understated strap that accentuates of the jeans is the right choice.

Firm denim has the best outline, so look for little elasticity. The waistband should be at your waist – any cut sitting low conveys a more casual message – and snug but not tight. You will wear a belt regardless (as mentioned, pay attention) and I don't think trousers need to be restrictive. You should feel held, but not cramped.

A jacket is to trousers like lipstick is to a natural complexion. The combination makes the look feel deliberate and planned, which exudes poise. The pairing of jeans with sleek wool or textured cloth brings depth and appeal. This works on top of a top or casual top for daywear, or a dressier item for dinner. Select a linked necklace or a simple hoop instead of a long elaborate jewelry. It appears very Parisian, know what I mean?

Trousers-with-a-pretty-blouse is a timeless because it works, especially if you are stepping out for a meal. Starting with jeans simplifies creating an look more straightforward, which is convenient if it's a fast evening change. A delicate undershirt beneath your jacket is a simple go-to that gives you alternatives: you might leave both on if you are close to the exit with a chill breeze, or slip the blazer away if you start to feeling hot in heated room temperature.

The ideal pair sets the tone between laid-back polish and popped-out-for-bin-bags. It doesn't have to be a high heel, though it can help. An enduring shiny pump with a denim trouser is always stylish, but flat shoes, new athletic shoes or ankle boots are all good. A flash of exposed skin in one area is always a pleasant touch, if the weather lets you: a few unfastened closures on a top, or a strappy sandal if you are sporting a crewneck pullover.

At times the straightforward selection turns out to be the polished decision. And should it's good enough for a celebrity event, it's good enough for your favorite spot in a cozy eatery.

Ann Brown
Ann Brown

Maya Chen is a tech journalist and innovation strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and digital transformation.