Season after season, denim is a wardrobe essential, but the styles are always changing. For the first time in a long time, denim skirts are back in style, and we don’t mean the faded minis of the ’90s. These 16 denim skirt outfits are just what you need to jump on the denim skirt bandwagon this season!
The Seventies
A denim skirt is the perfect piece to go along with the current ’70s trend. Charlotte of The Fashion Guitar channels the retro style in denim mini and cognac suede accessories. This outfit also paired a denim skirt with a chunky sweater, perfect for seasonal transitions. Notice the masterful half tuck; it keeps the finished look ultra-flattering.
Work to Weekend
Sheryl of Walk in Wonderland knows exactly how to wear a denim skirt at the office. Trust us, a denim pencil skirt—without rips or distressing—is totally appropriate for a casual or creative workplace. It’s also easy to wear on- or off-duty. Sheryl has the right idea, teaming her denim skirt with a button-down shirt and pointed pumps. A skinny belt is a great finishing touch; it accentuates the narrowest part of your waist.
With Leather
Button-front skirts are big this season, so a denim one is extra trendy. Hedvig of The Northern Light toughens hers up with a black tee and a leather jacket. Ankle boots are the perfect finish to this look, but not always. Wear ankle boots only if your skirt falls above or at your knees to avoid making your legs look short. You can really elongate your legs with a lace-up pair with pointed toes.
Double Denim
Bisous Natasha gives the Canadian Tuxedo a feminine twist with a trendy matching set in denim. Take note: The dark, clean rinse is what makes her outfit ultra-modern. Minimal makeup and luxe accessories help, too!
Maxi
Jana via Garance Dore proves that the denim maxi skirt can be completely modern and fresh despite what you might have thought. The key to pulling off this look is equal parts styling and skirt. It helps if the silhouette is a little form-fitting and free of extra details—tiers, buttons, or frays. A front slit on this one shakes up the modest style. Pair yours with a tucked-in tank—avoid anything loose or baggy—and strappy sandals to lead the eye upward.
Pencil Skirt
Most ways to wear a denim skirt will depend on your personal style, but this simple chic outfit on Julia of Gal Meets Glam can work for anyone and everyone. Just pair a sleek pencil skirt with a white button-down tied at the waist, and change up the look with accessories. We love her fringed sandals, but ankle boots or gladiator sandals would work just as well!
With a Sweater
A lightweight summer sweater is a wardrobe essential. Luckily, it looks effortless paired with just about anything, denim pencil skirt included. The lightly frayed edges give this outfit on Christine of Hello Fashion a nice casual touch.
Polished Bohemian
Of the many ways to wear a denim skirt, a bohemian look is at the top of our list. To keep your outfit on the polished side of boho, take a styling cue from Helena of Mi Aventura con la Moda. Forego Birkenstocks and woven bracelets for a breezy floral blouse, layered gold jewelry, and a leather bag.
Mix Washes
Unless it’s a matching set, denim-on-denim outfits look best mixing light and dark washes. Opt for washes at least a few different shades, like this light-wash shirt and medium-wash skirt on Charlotte of The Fashion Guitar: the more contrast, the more interesting the outfit.
Dressed Up
Most denim skirt outfits are on the casual side of things. Just like your favorite pair of jeans, though, the skirt is a piece that can be easily dressed up or down. This distressed denim pencil skirt on See Jane is a prime example. Take it up a notch with a silk blouse and metallic accessories.
Grunge
Try a new take on the grunge look with a deconstructed, ripped denim skirt like A Portable Package. This outfit is super-easy to recreate—just tuck in a plaid shirt, and add a leather jacket.
Denim x 3
If you’ve mastered double denim, triple denim is the next challenge. Though tricky to pull off, Blair of Atlantic-Pacific looks nothing but chic in her three shades of blue. A voluminous medium-wash jacket balances the form-fitting, super-dark denim pencil skirt and dark denim pointed pumps. Opt for minimal, classic accessories like a few gold bracelets and a swipe of red lipstick.
Simple
Keep this simple summer outfit on hand for those days when putting together a top-notch outfit is the last thing on your to-do list. Style Pantry makes combining two basic pieces—a tank and a denim pencil skirt—seem effortlessly chic. Knot a belt through the loops for a finished look.
To the Beach
With so many ways to wear a denim skirt this summer, you can make one work for almost any occasion. So why not trade kaftans and coverups for a denim mini on your next trip to the beach? Pull it on over your bikini after you get a little sun-kissed, and add a white tee and sandals as Sara of Collage Vintage did.
With a Ladylike Blouse
A billowy, ladylike blouse looks effortless paired with a denim mini-skirt. Tonya of The Mop Top nails the look in a button-front skirt. This outfit will work with gladiator sandals and into fall with knee-high boots.
Layered
The best part about this trend is that it’s not a one-season wonder. There are myriad ways to wear a denim skirt into fall, too. Case in point—this layered look on Hedvig of The Northern Light. On cool summer nights, tuck a slouchy sweater into your denim skirt. Come fall. It’s an easy outfit to wear with the simple addition of a coat!
Historical Context
The journey of the denim skirt can be traced back to various decades. From its surge in popularity during the 1970s to iconic moments among celebrities in the 2000s, the denim skirt has seen it all. Understanding its evolution can help us appreciate its resurgence now.
Choosing the Right Denim Skirt
Not all types of denim are created equal. Whether it’s the vibrant touch of acid wash or the rugged appeal of raw denim, the material plays a huge role. Moreover, based on your body type, choosing the right length and fit can make all the difference.
Care and Maintenance
Want to keep your denim skirt looking pristine? Proper care is essential. Avoid washing it too often, and turn it inside out when you do. And yes, tailoring is an option if you ever want to adjust its length or fit.
Seasonal Variations
Denim skirts are not just for summer. A darker hue can be perfect for winter, paired with tights and boots. On the other hand, lighter floral patterns could make a spring statement.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
Denim production, like all fashion, has its environmental impact. When shopping, look for brands that use sustainable practices. Ethical choices don’t just look good; they feel good too.
Accessorizing Your Denim Skirt
A denim skirt provides a versatile base for countless accessories. While a slouchy bag and statement necklace might elevate a casual look, choosing the right footwear, from stilettos to sneakers, can redefine the outfit.
Global Influence
Across the globe, the denim skirt is a beloved fashion staple. While it’s a casual go-to in places like the US, in countries like Japan, it’s often paired with quirky accessories and unique footwear. Embracing a global perspective can open up a plethora of styling ideas.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at Blufashion. She has been steering the website’s content and editorial direction since 2018. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra’s expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
