Denim on denim isn’t just a trend—it’s a statement. Here’s how to make double denim your own, no matter your style.
Double denim is making a comeback in the fashion world if you’ve paid attention. A style I’m proud to be a fan of, given my upbringing as a teen in the late ’90s and Y2K fashion—peak double denim vibes. An era painted with the echoes of teenage drama, matching denim jackets and low-rise flare jeans, tiny tank tops, and OG Skechers.
Given its controversial history in past decades, denim stacking (a term I self-coined) is more of a power move than a trend to hit for a few months. There’s been much gate-keeping and even fear-mongering over styling denim on denim outfits. First you had to match your denim, then you shouldn’t match your denim for fear of looking too Westerny—like the Canadian tuxedo gone wrong—as if there’s something inherently bad with that anyway?
The double denim era is a time for us to relinquish these outdated fashion rules and instead look with fresh eyes upon the potential to expand our style and learn something new about ourselves. In this post, I offer my best, practical tips for styling double denim outfits and how you can easily make denim looks your own.
This post is all about double denim.
Why Double Denim Never Goes Out of Style
Denim on denim styling has its roots in the 1950s, where the aesthetic took on a rebellious and rugged vibe. It’s reported the actor and crooner Bing Crosby was denied access to a Vancouver hotel for his double denim jeans look, birthing the ‘Canadian tuxedo,’ a trend carried on by Levi’s.
The fashion statement gained popularity in the 1970s through country music stars and cowboys, dubbing it as a ‘Western’ style—some might even call it a Texan tuxedo. The look became more mainstream in the double denim 80s with Debbie Harry rocking a denim-on-denim outfit in the Charlie’s Angels film. Fast-forward to the double denim 90s and Y2K with Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake’s controversial denim looks at the 2001 American Music Awards.
Until now, double denim has been closeted from mainstream fashion, dubbed either too Western, too costumey, or too matchy-matchy. Those in the know ignored these fleeting arguments and continued to style away. Which brings us to now… where denim fashion trends have swung back, and the style has broken through as chic and modern. And since we’re in the season of throwing away all the fashion rules that once upon a time held us back, double denim is a timeless trend that will continue to evolve as both the fashion industry and our personal styles do.
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No matter your style preference, anyone can make double denim fashionable. The key lies in how you style it.
Double Denim Outfits To inspire Your Next Look
Denim stacking is a statement all its own, and honestly, it doesn’t take much to pull off a chic look. I’ve been digging through my closet, styling these outfits with stuff I already own, tossing in accessories that vibe with my unique style. Here’s what I came up with—hope it gets you thinking about your own denim-on-denim game.
1. Casual Chic Double Denim Outfit: Button-down Shirt + Jeans + Tall Boots
I styled this casual chic double denim outfit with two shades of dark denim—because who says they have to match? The button-down stays open to keep things loose, paired with skinny jeans and Western boots. A white scoop-neck top adds some contrast, and the matching accessories give it that Canadian tuxedo feel, but the colors and vibe keep it modern. This style is effortless cool.
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2. Modern Classic Denim Stacking: Dark Denim Shirt + White Jeans + Ivory Cardigan
This modern classic outfit is such a mood. I’m all about contrasting colors, and I can’t get over how the dark denim shirt looks against white jeans and a cozy cable-knit cardigan in ivory. A leather belt adds a little something extra, same with the pointy-toe kitten heels. It’s denim stacking that feels like a statement without trying too hard—perfect for me.
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3. Cool Girl Denim On Denim Outfit: Light Wash Button Up Shirt + Relaxed Jeans + Bodysuit
This stacked denim look is relaxed, casual, and honestly perfect for spring, summer, even early fall. The lightweight chambray shirt just drapes over relaxed light-wash jeans, and I threw in a red bodysuit for a pop of color—matched it with strappy red sandals, too. It’s a denim-on-denim outfit that works for date night or just running around—my kind of chill chic.
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4. Minimal Chic With Attitude: Double Denim Skirt Outfit
Denim on denim doesn’t have to give masculine—but styling a double denim skirt outfit brings that femininity back into the mix. Black boots, a black handbag, and black sunglasses keep it minimal chic with some attitude. This outfit doesn’t need anything else—it’s a statement, period.
Styling Notes:
I’ve got a soft classic body type (shoutout to Kibbe), so I’m always sneaking in some softness—like that drapey chambray or cozy cardigan. My seasonal color palette’s closest to bright winter, which is why I lean into contrasts with a hit of brightness—think white tees or that red bodysuit. That’s what I kept in mind while styling these outfits.
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Must-Know Styling Tips For Chic Denim Outfits
The key to styling double denim outfits? Balance—through color, shape, texture, or whatever extras you toss in. Timeless styling is all about knowing what works for you. If you understand your body type it’s easier to pick pieces that complement one another. Here’s my denim styling cheat sheet.
- Color Clash or Coordinate: Forget who’s telling you to match one day and clash another. Imagine your jean shirt as a regular button-down and style a three color outfit. A monochromatic or tonal double denim aesthetic can be grounded with a contrasting belt or jacket.
- Shape It Up: Balance is everything. Loose on top? Slim-fit or structured below—like my casual chic skinny jeans with an open button-down. Fitted shirt? Relaxed jeans or a flowy skirt work. A belt or pointy-toe shoes can also create that contrast you need when styling a fully casual or fully structured look.
- Texture Matters: Play with denim weights or add something soft, like a cardigan or suede jacket. Leather adds more structure. Chambray keeps an outfit relaxed and effortless.
- Extras Make It Yours: Accessories or that “third piece” can completely shift the whole double denim look. Incorporate different colors, shapes, and textures into your denim outfit and it becomes a signature look rather than an on-trend uniform.
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Make Denim Stacking Your Own
I love how double denim can give minimal chic one day or play blank canvas for your inner maximalist the next—and hit everything in between. Give yourself an hour to experiment with denim styling; that’s how I stumbled into the wild world of triple denim—yep, three pieces, total power move. It’s all about getting creative with what’s already in your closet.
Accessories are huge for denim stacking in warm weather—think sandals or shades—but when it’s cold, layering’s your secret weapon for winter outfits. I’m obsessed with a good vest; it adds that softness I crave and keeps me cozy. It’s how I turn a denim set into a winter-ready double denim look without freezing my summer-loving soul.
I had a blast styling these denim-on-denim outfits for this piece—I hope it sparks some denim inspiration for you. Shop your closet, find your favorite signature looks this year, and make them yours. I’d love to hear what you come up with—let’s swap ideas!
This post was all about double denim.
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Totally loving your style 🙂
Aw June,
Thank you for the kind words and for reading through! I’m definitely having fun! Have a great week!