The Essential Jean Jacket

Jean jackets have it all — form, function and versatility. They transition effortlessly from week to weekend, plus they’re seasonless, gender-neutral and age-inclusive. It’s common to have the same one for decades, and without it looking dated. So fish yours out from the back of the closet, dust it off and start wearing it again. Jean jackets are timeless and essential to every wardrobe, so make sure you love the one you have and wear it often:

  1. Cropped cut
    It doesn’t get more classic than a medium wash, cropped denim jacket. Both the color and silhouette are so timeless they’re essentially trend-proof, plus the cropped length ending at the natural waistline flatters any shape by keeping the figure parsed in thirds. Light wash, dark denim and distressed finishes are also great though tend to be more trend-driven, so if you’re looking for a timeless staple go for medium wash.

  2. Belted style
    If a traditional boxy cut isn’t your preferred look, more stylized jean jackets are super chic, super flattering and can be just as timeless. Try a belted style to add curves, especially for anyone whose waist is disappearing. Belted jean jackets also work wonders to elevate any outfit, performing double-duty as a pseudo-blazer in a pinch. As an alternative, either a fit-and-flare style jean jacket or denim shirt achieves the same goal, and adding a statement belt simulates the same look.

  3. Accessorize
    High-low juxtapositions are high-style and low-fuss, so consider adding some bling to your jean jacket for a super chic look. Button the top button only, then accessorize with a chunky statement necklace in rhinestone, gold or silver. The necklace should sit over the jacket but under the collar, which grounds the look and makes it more casual. This pairing also works well with an over-sized denim shacket.

  4. Styling
    Jean jackets are the ultimate cool and causal wardrobe staple from summer to fall. For day, pair with a crop top, ankle crop wide leg pant and espadrilles for an easy, breezy and flattering look. For evening, switch out the pants for an A-line skirt and espadrilles for a metallic sandal. The swap is fuss-free yet high-impact, nailing pitch perfect summer style. Also consider a maxi skirt, especially if you’re in a tropical location.

  5. Double denim
    Like a jean jacket, the Canadian Tuxedo never goes out of style. In fact double denim has been growing in popularity this year, making it a favorite of style makers everywhere. Get the look by pairing your denim jacket with a pair of jeans and, voilà, it’s as easy as that. Add a pop of color with a silk scarf at the neck, rolled and threaded as a belt or tied around your purse’s top handle. Super chic, super classic and super of-the-moment.

See BestLifeOnline.com press feature here.

Elizabeth Kosich Styling