How to Make a Denim Jacket Your Year-Round Uniform

Wear Mon-Fri, wash, repeat.

Denim jacket
(Image credit: Edward Berthelot)
Taylor Ayers
By Taylor Ayers
published

A denim jacket is a tried-and-true staple  (opens in new tab)that deserves its rightful space in every closet. I'm not afraid to admit that I have a rotating collection of jean jacket styles (opens in new tab), from a cropped trucker to a dark acid-wash to a oversized light wash. A jean jacket is that piece. The one so versatile that it isn't tucked away when seasons change and can adapt into new looks as your style evolves. Add a classic blue-wash over your shoulders on a summer night to combat the blasting A/C, layer your favorite knits under an oversized loose-fitting jacket for an effortlessly cool fall look, or go with bright denim and coordinating pants for a monochromatic outfit. While we may never reach the denim heights of Britney and Justin circa 2001 (opens in new tab), we sure can try. Ahead, 15 of our favorite denim jackets that will soon be your new forever favorite.

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Denim and Leather
(Image credit: Christian Vierig)

Denim and Leather

Swap out your over-worn blazer for a structured denim jacket. The tailored silhouette will instantly give your outfit an elevated yet laid-back feel.

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Slvrlake Alamo Denim Jacket
(Image credit: farfetch.com)

Slvrlake Alamo Denim Jacket

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Wear The Classics
(Image credit: Edward Berthelot)

Wear The Classics

When you have nothing to wear, lean on wardrobe staples. Pair a white mini dress with a pair of semi-sheer tights and a light wash jean jacket. These classic pieces will never fail you.

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Levi Ex-Boyfriend Trucker Jacket
(Image credit: levi.com)

Levi Ex-Boyfriend Trucker Jacket

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Denim and Mesh
(Image credit: Christian Vierig)

Denim and Mesh

You likely already own this timeless silhouette, so give this no-fuss denim jacket a more edgy feel. Layer a sleek mesh bodysuit over a bralette and dig out a vintage mini-skirt for a head turning denim-on-denim look.

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DL1961 Vika Denim Jacket
(Image credit: 20-08-28 chercobbold PM2 B8 john)

DL1961 Vika Denim Jacket

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Go Neutral
(Image credit: Matthew Sperzel)

Go Neutral

Break away from the typical blue jean jackets. This beige set is a fresh take on the classic blue wash. Pair with other earth tones like this bucket hat and heeled sandals for a head-to-toe neutral look.

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Mango Oversized Denim Jacket
(Image credit: mango.com)

Mango Oversized Denim Jacket

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Wear With A Maxi
(Image credit: Neil Mockford)

Wear With A Maxi

Bring the '80s back with a black, oversized, acid-wash denim jacket. Keep the styling cool and relaxed by layering your favorite maxi underneath with a pair of chunky sneakers.

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Topshop Dad XL Jacket
(Image credit: asos.com)

Topshop Dad XL Jacket

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With A Skirt
(Image credit: Getty Images)

With A Skirt

For a casual but still put-together look, grab your favorite A-line skirt and pair it with a cropped denim jacket to break up the length.

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UTNISAN Oversized Jean Jacket
(Image credit: amazon.com)

UTNISAN Oversized Jean Jacket

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Matchy Matchy
(Image credit: Jeremy Moeller)

Matchy Matchy

Don't shy away from color. Instead, find a monochromatic set that will make a statement. Wear a bright denim jacket with matching jeans for a off-duty summer look.

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H&M Denim Jacket
(Image credit: hm.com)

H&M Denim Jacket

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Classic to a T
(Image credit: Christian Vierig)

Classic to a T

Keep it simple with a timeless white tee. When the transition from winter to spring feels like a drag, you'll have this classic denim to look forward to—always.

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Justalwart Oversized Denim Jacket
(Image credit: amazon.com)

Justalwart Oversized Denim Jacket

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Comfy Cozy
(Image credit: Edward Berthelot)

Comfy Cozy

The ultimate put-together airport look. Throw an oversized denim jacket over your matching sweat-set to give the look a bit more definition and you're onto your next destination.

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KAMA BRIDAL Women's Boyfriend Denim
(Image credit: amazon.com)

KAMA BRIDAL Women's Boyfriend Denim

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Cinch The Waist
(Image credit: Gotham)

Cinch The Waist

This cinched-waist jacket with roomy sleeves gives an ultra flattering shape to utilitarian denim. A perfect one-and-done top for any crisp fall day.

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Bare Your Abs
(Image credit: Christian Vierig)

Bare Your Abs

Let us not forget about the denim that doubles as a blazer. Wear with coordinating high-waisted trousers and an ab-baring bralette for a fresh look.

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Isabel Marant Etoile Lucinda Jacket
(Image credit: shopbop.com)

Isabel Marant Etoile Lucinda Jacket

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Patchwork
(Image credit: Christian Vierig)

Patchwork

Let the jacket do the talking. Show off a little personality with this patchwork denim jacket. Pair with wide-leg denim trousers and baby blue bag to keep it monochromatic.

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Urban Outfitters The Ragged Priest Destiny Patchwork Denim Jacket
(Image credit: www.urbanoutfitters.com)

Urban Outfitters The Ragged Priest Destiny Patchwork Denim Jacket

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Over A Slip
(Image credit: Edward Berthelot)

Over A Slip

When the days start getting warmer and you're not ready to sacrifice your sleeves, that's where a oversized denim jacket comes in handy. Throw it over everything you own, from slip dresses to jeans and a knit.

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Ksubi Karma Oversized Jacket
(Image credit: freepeople.com)

Ksubi Karma Oversized Jacket

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Black and White
(Image credit: Jeremy Moeller)

Black and White

It's as simple as black and white. When in doubt, go reach for your classic black and white pieces. This black denim jacket pairs perfectly with black flare trousers and a crisp white tee.

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BZB Women's Boyfriend Denim Jacket
(Image credit: amazon.com)

BZB Women's Boyfriend Denim Jacket

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Structured Shoulders
(Image credit: Edward Berthelot)

Structured Shoulders

This structured denim jacket is tailored for all your '80s shoulder pad fantasies.

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Retrofete Ada Denim Jacket
(Image credit: 19-06-26 zoranakuzmanovic PM2 B3 phillee W)

Retrofete Ada Denim Jacket

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Over Your Hoodie
(Image credit: Jeremy Moeller)

Over Your Hoodie

Don't overthink it. Layering your denim over your trusty hoodie is just what your wardrobe called for on a Sunday morning coffee run.

Taylor Ayers
Taylor Ayers

Taylor Ayers is a fashion editor at Marie Claire, covering the new editorial fashion trends, looks, and contemporary styles.

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