Denim on Denim: Outfit Ideas and Accessorising Tips

Definition 

A denim-on-denim outfit, which is also known as double denim and the Canadian tuxedo, is created when you pair two denim pieces together. There are no rules regarding which wardrobe pieces you can use — you can match jacket with jeans, shirts with shorts or skirts with tank tops. To ace this aesthetic, it is often recommended that different textures, washes and colours of denim be worn together to create visual interest.

Although it can be worn around the year, the denim-on-denim trend tends to revive during the spring and fall seasons as it is a stylish, versatile and comfortable combination that is just warm enough for the transitional months.

History of the denim-on-denim trend

The denim-on-denim trend can be traced back to the creation of the Canadian tuxedo in 1951 at a high-end hotel in Vancouver, Canada. The story goes that the famous American singer Bing Crosby was denied check-in at his hotel because he was deemed to be underdressed in a top-and-bottom denim outfit — he should have been wearing a three-piece suit instead. Although he was soon recognised and the situation was corrected, the amusing story spread far and wide, and the denim-on-denim look quickly became known as the Canadian tuxedo. Unexpectedly, the popularity of this sartorial icon that he accidentally created has long outlived both Bing Cosby and his fame.

While it has its roots in the 1950s, double denim only rose to peak prominence in the 1970s and 1980s. The most unforgettable denim-on-denim looks include the ones seen on glamorous Eighties celebrities like Blondie front-woman Debbie Harry, the Charlie's Angels and pop icon George Michael. This impactful way to wear denim continued to find fans through the ‘90s and into the new millennium — Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake showing up on the red carpet of the 2001 American Music Awards in matching head-to-toe denim was a defining moment of Y2K fashion.

However, despite the obvious appeal and longevity of the denim-on-denim trend, opinions are divided on whether it is cool or tacky. Some in the anti-double-denim crowd have cited that it looks too ‘workwear” to be considered stylish or sophisticated. Others have claimed that a full-denim outfit is simply too much of the same material — the lack of contrast is simply not pleasing to the eye.

While it may have its critics, there is no denying that the denim-on-denim trend is still going strong, judging by the many style-savvy individuals who are standing by it and proudly bringing it onto the streets.

Experiment with wash and colour

When trying to create a successful double-denim outfit, contrast and coherence are key. The great thing about denim is that it comes in a wide range of washes and colours, so you can experiment and get creative with the way you combine different pieces into an attractive whole. In general, there are two ways to go about mixing different denim finishes — either go for a high-contrast, light-versus-dark combination or a subtle tonal effect.

It is important to note that mismatched double-denim outfits should appear cohesive instead of dissonant. This can be achieved by using styling techniques that create visual harmony. For instance, pair a light-washed top with a dark-washed bottom to draw a smooth visual line, as our eyes naturally move from top to bottom and from light to dark. Darker bottoms would also help to ground the outfit and bring about a flattering silhouette.

Another way to anchor a high-contrast double-denim outfit is with neutral-toned accessories in black, white, brown and even metallics. These pieces would gently break up the monotony of a denim-heavy ensemble while tying together the different elements of the look. They also serve as eye-catching accents that elevate and add dimension — they make the outfit look more intentional.

Choose one hero piece

As denim on denim is already an outstanding look, editing your outfit so it is not too much is important. An easy way to make sure that you don’t go over the top is to pick just one hero piece as the focus of the look. This can be a striking piece of denim clothing or a statement accessory, like brightly coloured shoes, an outstanding bag or bold jewellery. Having just one visual focus will keep your outfit look sharp and considered.

Add non-denim textures

As mentioned above, one criticism of a denim-on-denim outfit is that it can look monotonous — and the eye craves contrast. To break up a look with so much denim, introduce different and eye-catching textures to the mix. For instance, accessorising with metallic jewellery or a glossy silk scarf will prevent your ensemble from being “too denim”.

An effortless way to introduce contrasting textures into your double-denim ensemble is to layer a light cotton shirt or sleeveless top under your denim top, such as a jacket or a vest. When putting together a layered look like this, a tonal combination (e.g. light blue shirt with blue denim) will look more sophisticated and polished. On the other hand, wearing a white shirt or t-shirt with top-to-toe denim look is a foolproof way not only to break up the monotony but also to create chic visual harmony. If you are feeling brave, feel free to experiment with other colours, but start off by working with neutral-toned inner layers.

Classic Combination: Denim Jacket & Jeans

Classic Combination: Denim Jacket & Jeans

This is the most timeless way to wear denim on denim. Pick a jacket and jeans in matching dark washes for a sleek elevated aesthetic or juxtapose contrasting denim shades for a cool streetstyle vibe.

Elevated Basics: Denim Shirt & Jeans 

Elevated Basics: Denim Shirt & Jeans 

With this combination, consider making a play on texture instead of colour. Keep the colours of the shirt and jeans similar and put the focus on the juxtaposition of the soft, lightweight fabric of top with the tough, utilitarian material of the bottom.

Feminine Twist: Denim Skirt Set 

Feminine Twist: Denim Skirt Set 

When matching a denim jacket to a denim skirt, pay attention the proportions. With short, flared skirts, opt for fitting cropped jacket to keep your silhouette neat and balanced. With longer, narrower denim skirts, size up on the top.

One-Piece Wonders: Denim Dresses and Jumpsuits 

One-Piece Wonders: Denim Dresses and Jumpsuits 

This is arguably the most effortless way to wear double denim. However, accessories are key with this look. Avoid overloading your outfit with denim accessories and pick bags and shoes that will stand out against your denim base, whether in colour or details.

Adapt Your Denim Base to the Season  

Your denim bases should change with the seasons. Typically, light washes — on shorts, jorts and skirts — would work well during the spring and summer months. Dark washes, on the other hand, are more suitable for fall and winter. Dark denim also complements the staple shades of the cooler periods, including warm brown and rich burgundy, better than light denim.

Casual

Denim-on-denim outfits are a natural fit for casual settings. Lean into its relaxed-chic aesthetic by completing your full-denim look with classic casual footwear.

Trainers, especially white canvas trainers, are generally a good choice for pairing with denim, but there are more specific considerations to be made. A rule of thumb for picking out trainers for casual double-denim outfits is to match the trainers to the bottom. For instance, if you are wearing wide-leg jeans, go for sleek trainers with narrow silhouettes to balance the proportions. Or, if you are wearing a denim skirt, opt for sneakerinas to align with the feminine aesthetic of the ensemble.

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The sandal is another casual shoe style that will match effortlessly with a head-to-toe denim look. They are particularly perfect for summer and are often paired with denim during the warmer months. To create a light-hearted summer outfit, complement a light-weight denim jumpsuit with matching denim slides that are elevated by gem-embellished buckles — the effect is playful yet polished.

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If you are wearing a denim-on-denim outfit to a smart-casual event, reach for loafers, whose structured silhouette makes them great for semi-formal occasions. In these cases, choose dark denim over light denim and add a touch of sophisticated warmth via brown loafers. The resulting look is put-together yet still cool.

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Workwear

Traditionally, double-denim outfits are not considered to be appropriate workwear, so do proceed with care if you are thinking about wearing one to the office. However, they can be suitable for workplaces that have smart-casual or fully casual dress codes. In these cases, business casual shoes are the best match for your denim-on-denim look. The shoes you choose to wear with your full-denim office outfit should have classic covered-toe designs with understated details — ballet flats, pointed pumps and penny loafers will fit the bill nicely.

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Feminine & Dressy

While denim may not be the most feminine fabric, it is very adaptable to feminine style. The simplest way to create a feminine double-denim outfit is to opt for a denim skirt or dress. These versatile wardrobe staples can be dressed up with the right shoes to become a striking elevated look that is polished with an edge — the details can make all the difference. A full-length, body-skimming strapless denim dress will look glamorous when paired with slingback stiletto heels, but will take on a relaxed, girlish charm if worn with ballerinas or Mary Jane flats. The key is to find shoes that will complement and highlight the feminine elements in your full-denim look.

Trendy & Statement-Making

Sometimes, more can be more. A denim-on-denim outfit may already be a bold look, but that does not mean that it cannot be paired with statement-making shoes. Knee-high boots can be a great match for shorter denim bottoms, such as knee-length skirts and jorts — the snug fit of these shoes have a flattering effect on the legs, while also balancing the wide silhouettes of the bottoms. Tone down this striking combination by choosing boots in dark neutral tones, like brown or black.

The low-profile sneaker is another shoe style that would effortlessly complement a head-to-toe denim look — its sleek, clean-lined silhouette will polish up your outfit while being casual and comfortable. Read our ultimate guide on how to style low-profile trainers.

If you are in the mood to stand out, metallic shoes are an effortless way to make a subtle style statement. As these shoes are already very outstanding, keep their designs simple with minimal details to prevent your ensemble from veering into costume territory. As the tones of the shoes and denim should be complementary, cool-toned silver shoes would complement dark-wash denim while warm-toned gold shoes would look better with light-wash denim.

What colour shoes go best with a denim-on-denim outfit?

Denim is a highly versatile fabric that will go well with virtually any colour — they would even match easily with multi-coloured printed shoes. The colour of the shoes you pick to wear with a denim-on-denim outfit would depend on the aesthetic you are going for or the dress code of the event you are attending. When in doubt, pick shoes in classic neutral colours. White and grey are especially complementary with light-wash denim, while black and brown are more suitable for dark-wash denim.

If you are wearing socks, their colours should also be given consideration. An failproof way to incorporate socks into a full-denim look is to match them to a colour that is already present in the ensemble. For instance, if your denim piece has white stitching, white socks would help the outfit look cohesive.

Structured Bags for Polished Looks

There is no denying that double denim has a casual streetstyle aesthetic. Therefore, if you are planning to wear it in a smart-casual setting or to the office, you would have to rely on your accessories to polish it up and make it appropriate for the occasion. Structured bags, which is defined as any bag that can hold its own shape, is perfect for this purpose as they would make an ensemble feel more intentional. Fortunately, this type of bags comes in a wide variety of designs — from top handle bags to crossbody bags and shoulder bags — so it would not be difficult to find one that suits your style and preferences.

To instantly elevate your denim-on-denim outfit, consider pairing it with a sophisticated handbag that is made with luxurious real leather. The fine quality of your accessories would transform the feel of your look from informal and relaxed to cool and elegant.

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Crossbody Bags & Backpacks for Hands-Free, Travel-Light Days

Pair casual bag styles, such as crossbody bags, backpacks and mini bags, with full-denim outfits to create effortlessly stylish weekend outfits that are also comfortable and practical. Not only would they keep your hands free, but these typically compact bags would also allow you to travel light while looking put together. For instance, a relaxed denim set consisting of a denim shirt and jorts can be completed with a chain-strap crossbody bag — the result is laid-back and just a little edgy.

Carry-Everything Totes For Full Schedules

With a utilitarian look and feel, a full-denim outfit is a good choice for busy days. When you are fully booked from morning to night, pair your denim-on-denim look with a stylish, versatile and roomy tote that can hold everything you need and more. The right tote is more than just a practical carrier — it can also affect the mood of your ensemble. If you are wearing a sharp double-denim outfit to a work-related or formal-leaning event, complement it with a structured tote bag with refined details. If you are running errands and meeting friends on off-duty days, opt for a slouchy tote bag to enhance the relaxed-chic vibe of your casual double-denim look.

Statement Handbags  

As mentioned above, there is no reason why you cannot accessorise boldly when wearing a double-denim outfit. As usual, the key is balance and harmony. A statement bag would go the best with simple full-denim looks that will not compete with it for attention. For instance, a patent leather bag with striking metallic hardware will be the hero piece in your look when you pair it with a minimalist denim dress. Avoid putting too many details into your outfit or it may come across as incoherent.

What colour bag go best with denim-on-denim outfit?

The bag colour your choose will depend on the wash and overall aesthetic of your denim-on-denim outfit. While classic blue denim is incredibly versatile and will go well with most colours, it is a particularly great match with brown, so brown bags will be a good and safe choice. For a more casual option, consider white or cream canvas bags — not only is the colour contrast striking, the textural juxtaposition of denim with canvas is also visually interesting.

As greens and purples are analogous colours of blue, green and purple bags would be fabulous options as well. If your double-denim outfit consists of matching tonal shades and you want to disrupt its blueness, consider eye-catching printed bags or simply a denim bags of a different wash or colour.