Wondering how to wear a denim shirt and make it look effortlessly stylish? You’re not alone! A denim shirt is one of the most versatile wardrobe essentials, but if you’ve been pairing it the same way over and over, it’s time to mix things up!
Whether you’re styling your denim shirt for a casual day out, a polished office look, or even date night, this guide will show you 30+ foolproof ways to wear a denim shirt, using pieces you likely already own.
By the end of this post, you’ll learn:
✅ How to style a denim shirt for different occasions
✅ What to wear with a denim shirt to create effortlessly chic looks
✅ Easy outfit formulas that take the guesswork out of getting dressed
No more staring at your closet feeling uninspired! These denim shirt outfit ideas will help you make the most of this classic piece! It is my #1 goal to show you ways that you can maximize your closet!
Ready to learn how to wear a denim shirt? Let’s start!
Post originally shared in 2021 – Photos and text were updated in February 2025.
Estimated reading time: 19 minutes
*This post contains affiliate links. Which means if you shop for certain things by clicking the links in this blog post, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! Thanks in advance for supporting Ways of Style!
What To Wear With a Denim Shirt: 30+ Outfit Ideas That Work Every Time!
Before we get into all the different denim shirt outfit ideas, let’s talk about why this piece belongs in every closet.
A denim shirt is one of the few items that can work for almost any occasion (as you are about to see). It’s the perfect blend of casual and polished, making it incredibly easy to dress up or down.
Unlike a denim jacket, which is more structured, a chambray shirt (another name for a denim shirt) has the softness and flexibility of a button-down while still giving that timeless denim look.
Why a Denim Shirt is a Wardrobe Essential:
✅ Versatile for Any Season – A denim shirt works year-round, whether layered in cooler months or styled solo in warmer weather.
✅ Pairs with Almost Anything – It looks great with leggings, skirts, tailored pants, jeans, and even layered over dresses.
✅ Casual Yet Polished – You can wear a denim shirt for a relaxed weekend look or style it with structured pieces for a more refined outfit.
✅️ A Great Alternative to a Denim Jacket – If a denim jacket feels too bulky or casual, a denim shirt gives you a similar vibe but with more styling options.
✅ Perfect for Travel – A denim shirt is one of the most useful pieces to pack because it can double as a lightweight jacket, a layering piece, or a stand-alone top. (trust me, I travel full time with just a carry-on and I pack one of these for *almost* any trip!)
Now that you know why this piece is so useful, let’s get into how to wear a denim shirt and create 30+ stylish outfits!
1️⃣ Casual & Everyday Looks With A Denim Shirt:
A denim shirt is one of the easiest pieces to style for casual, everyday outfits. Whether you’re running errands, grabbing coffee with a friend, or heading out for a relaxed weekend, these denim shirt outfit ideas will keep you looking stylish with minimal effort.
Denim Shirt Outfit Ideas for Casual Days:
✔️ With Leggings & Sneakers – A denim shirt with leggings is the perfect mix of comfortable and put-together. Wear it unbuttoned over a basic t-shirt or tie it at the waist to add shape. Complete the look with white sneakers for an easygoing vibe.
✔️ With White Jeans – A light-wash denim shirt with white jeans creates a fresh, clean look. Add neutral sandals, booties or flats for a polished yet casual feel. (the shoes you pick depend on the season and occasion)
✔️ Layered Over a Striped Tee – Wearing a denim shirt over a striped t-shirt gives a classic and slightly Parisian feel. Pair with black skinny jeans or joggers and finish with flats shoes, loafers or white sneakers.
✔️ With Shorts – A chambray shirt with shorts is the ultimate warm-weather casual look. You can keep it buttoned up, wear it open over a tank, or do a half-tuck for a relaxed fit.
✔️ Knotted Over a Casual Dress or Jumpsuit – Instead of a denim jacket, use a denim shirt tied over a your dresses or jumpsuits. This trick defines your waist and adds a stylish layering element without feeling bulky.
Plus it makes your dresses look like a skirt, which feels like having a new piece without spending a dime!
Why These Casual Denim Shirt Looks Work So Well:
✅ They’re easy to put together – All of these outfits use wardrobe basics you likely already own.
✅ They create balance – A denim shirt adds structure to leggings and softness to white jeans or a dress.
✅ They’re adaptable – Swap shoes or accessories to take the look from casual to polished in seconds.
✅ They work for different body types – Whether tucked in, unbuttoned, or knotted, you can adjust the styling to flatter your shape.
2️⃣ Work-Appropriate Outfits With A Denim Shirt:
Think a denim shirt can’t be office-friendly? Think again! While a chambray shirt is naturally more casual, pairing it with the right pieces can instantly make it polished, professional, and stylish.
Whether your office leans more towards business casual or creative, these denim shirt outfit ideas will help you make it work!
How to Wear a Denim Shirt for The Office:
✔️ With a Blazer & Trousers/Jeans – Layering your denim shirt under a structured blazer instantly makes it look more polished. Pair with tailored trousers/jeans and loafers or block heels for a chic business casual look.
✔️ Layered with a Striped Sweater & Vest – A denim shirt layered under a striped sweater adds texture and interest, while a tailored black vest with gold buttons elevates the look.
Pair with dark skinny jeans and lace-up heels for a chic, structured outfit perfect for work or a dressy casual setting.
✔️ With a White Blazer & Skinny Pants – Pair your denim shirt with the classic and timeless white blazer. Wear black or navy skinny jeans to keep the outfit sleek and flattering.
Why These Denim Shirt Office Looks Work So Well:
✅ They balance casual and professional – A denim shirt paired with structured pieces keeps the outfit polished.
✅ They’re easy to layer – Blazers, midi skirts, and tailored pants elevate the look while keeping it comfortable.
✅ They offer multiple styling options – You can tuck, half-tuck, or layer a denim shirt to suit different office settings.
✅ They work year-round – These outfits transition seamlessly from season to season with simple swaps in accessories.
Is Your Closet Holding You Back? Let’s Fix That!
If you love the idea of styling a denim shirt but struggle to create outfits you actually want to wear, your closet might be working against you. The good news? I’ve got something to help!
Take the Closet Score Quiz to find out if it’s time for a wardrobe refresh. Plus, when you take the quiz, you’ll get access to a free email course (based on your results) that walks you through cleaning out your closet, defining your personal style, and building a wardrobe that makes getting dressed easy.
Get started by answering these 7 questions! I’ll help you with what’s next :)
3️⃣ Dressed-Up & Chic Styles:
A denim shirt isn’t just for casual wear! It can easily be dressed up for date nights, dinner outings, or polished events. The key is pairing it with elevated fabrics, structured silhouettes, and statement accessories to make it feel chic and intentional.
How to Wear a Denim Shirt To Create Dressed-Up Looks:
✔️ With a Statement Skirt & Heels – Tucking a denim shirt into a bold midi skirt creates a stylish, balanced look. Opt for a skirt in silk, leather, or a fun print, and complete the outfit with strappy heels, espadrilles or pointed-toe pumps. (depends on season and occasion)
✔️ With Black Skinny Jeans & Statement Heels – A medium-wash denim shirt paired with black skinny jeans creates a sleek and stylish base. Elevate the outfit with statement heels and a chic belt for a polished yet modern look.
✔️ With a Leather Mini Skirt & Ankle Boots – A deep blue denim shirt tucked into a black leather mini skirt adds structure and a touch of edge. Black ankle boots complete the look, making it perfect for a stylish day-to-night transition.
✔️ Layered with a Leather Jacket & Black Booties – A denim shirt layered under a black leather jacket brings a cool, edgy vibe. Black booties and skinny jeans complete the look, making it perfect for casual nights out or stylish daytime wear.
✔️ With a Pleated Skirt & Wedges – A darker denim shirt tucked into a pleated skirt balances structure with movement. The pop of yellow adds vibrance, while wedge sandals keep it fresh and fun.
✔️ Denim Shirt Over a White T-Shirt & Black Jeans – Wearing a denim shirt open over a white T-shirt and a bralette creates a feminine contrast. Tucking the T-shirt into black jeans with a sleek belt makes the outfit look effortlessly chic.
✔️ Knotted Denim Shirt & High-Waisted Black Jeans – Tying a light-wash denim shirt at the waist adds a touch of shape and makes the outfit feel more relaxed.
A red neck scarf enhances the look with a pop of color, while black jeans and pointed-toe shoes keep it sophisticated.
Why These Looks Work:
✅ They add contrast – The mix of structured pieces and soft denim creates intentional, elevated looks.
✅ They highlight the versatility of a denim shirt – With the right styling, a denim shirt can replace a blouse or dressy top.
✅ They’re easy to accessorize – Jewelry, heels, and statement bags take these outfits to the next level.
✅ They’re perfect for multiple occasions – Whether for date night, an evening event, or a stylish brunch, these looks always work.
4️⃣ How to Wear a Denim Shirt on Vacation
A denim shirt is one of the most versatile pieces you can pack for a trip. Whether you’re exploring a new city, heading to the beach, or dressing up for a casual dinner, it works as a lightweight layer, a stylish top, or even an easy cover-up.
If you’re wondering how to wear a denim shirt while traveling, these vacation looks will show you just how effortless and stylish it can be!
✔️ With a Neutral Mini Skirt & Sandals – A light-wash denim shirt tucked into a beige mini skirt creates a fresh and relaxed outfit for warm-weather destinations. A straw hat and comfy flat leather sandals complete this easygoing vacation look.
✔️ Tied Over a Black Mini Skirt & Tank Top – Knotting a denim shirt over a fitted tank and a mini skirt instantly adds a polished yet casual touch to a travel outfit. Espadrilles and a headband keep it stylish and comfortable for exploring.
✔️ Knotted Over a Dress & Sneakers – Pairing a denim shirt with a mini dress creates an effortlessly chic travel outfit. Knotted at the waist and styled with sneakers, this look blends comfort and style, making it ideal for casual dinners or city strolls.
✔️ Open Over a Striped Tee & Mini Skirt – Wearing a denim shirt open over a striped tee and black mini skirt makes for a classic, laid-back travel look. Add printed sneakers for all-day comfort while sightseeing.
✔️ Layered Over a Swimsuit with a Pleated Skirt – A denim shirt worn open over a bikini top and a pleated skirt is perfect for a tropical getaway. The straw hat and slide sandals complete this breezy resort-ready outfit.
✔️ Tied Around a Striped Dress – Tie a denim shirt around a striped dress for a stylish and functional layering piece. Comfy sandals keep it practical, while a straw hat adds a vacation-ready touch.
Why These Vacation Looks Work?
✅ Perfect for layering – A denim shirt works as a top, a lightweight jacket, or a stylish accessory tied around the waist.
✅ Easy to mix and match – Each outfit pairs effortlessly with other travel essentials, maximizing your wardrobe options.
✅ Comfortable yet polished – These looks are relaxed but put-together, making them ideal for travel days, sightseeing, or casual outings.
✅ Travel-friendly accessories – Hats, crossbody bags, and comfy shoes add style without sacrificing practicality.
5️⃣ Denim on Denim Outfits:
Wearing denim on denim is a timeless styling trick that always works. The key to pulling it off is mixing different washes or adding a contrasting piece to break it up.
Whether you go for a monochrome denim outfit or mix and match your pieces, a denim shirt is the perfect foundation for this look. If you’ve ever wondered how to wear a denim shirt in a way that looks intentional and put-together, these denim-on-denim outfits are a great way to get started!
✔️ With Cropped Wide-Leg Jeans & Sneakers – A light-wash denim shirt tied at the waist pairs perfectly with wide-leg denim pants for a casual yet elevated look. Printed sneakers add a fun pop, making the outfit feel fresh and stylish.
✔️ With a Denim Skirt & Sneakers – A denim-on-denim outfit that never fails! Tying the denim shirt at the waist defines your silhouette, while a button-front skirt keeps the look balanced. Add classic white sneakers and a simple cami for an effortlessly cool outfit.
✔️ With Striped Wide-Leg Pants & Sneakers – A denim shirt tied at the waist pairs perfectly with high-waisted striped wide-leg pants for a chic yet relaxed look. The vertical stripes elongate the legs, while classic white sneakers keep it casual and comfortable.
Why These Denim on Denim Looks Work:
✅ Tone-on-tone styling – Different shades of denim create contrast and dimension, making the outfit look intentional.
✅ Defined waistline – Tying the denim shirt adds shape, preventing the outfit from looking too boxy.
✅ Casual yet stylish – Sneakers keep the looks relaxed, while the structured denim pieces add a polished element.
You may have noticed I wear my white sneakers A LOT!!! These are literally the only ones I have right now. They are sustainable and they cost me $159 (they also have a canvas version in several cute colors that costs $119)
General Tips When Buying a Denim Shirt
✔️ Pick the Right Wash – Light wash is great for casual looks, medium wash is the most versatile, and dark wash feels more polished.
✔️ Choose the Right Fit – Slim-fit is great for layering, relaxed fits work well for tying at the waist, and oversized styles double as light jackets.
✔️ Look for Comfortable Fabrics – A cotton blend with a little stretch adds comfort. Chambray is a great lightweight alternative to denim.
✔️ Check for Mobility – Make sure the sleeves roll up easily, and there’s enough room in the shoulders and chest for layering.
🎯 This is the denim shirt I have right now (you only need to have one!)
Final Thoughts On Denim Shirts
If you didn’t already love denim shirts, I hope this post convinced you! They’re one of those rare wardrobe pieces that work with everything. From skirts to joggers, layered over dresses, or even paired with denim for that intentional denim-on-denim moment.
The best part? A good denim shirt never goes out of style. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out, packing light for a trip, or just trying to get out the door looking put together, this closet staple has your back.
So if you don’t own one yet, now’s the time! And if you already do, well… looks like you just got 30+ new outfit ideas to try. 😉
Which look is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
XO,
Aimara
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own.
I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my looks, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.
Did you learn how to style a denim shirt today? Please share it on Pinterest! (it really helps my blog when you share my content!)
Other style posts you may also like:
- More denim looks? Check out these 70+ outfits with a jean jacket for every season
- What to wear on a first date or for any type of date night (70+ outfit ideas)
- Another closet staple: a maxi skirt. Learn how to wear a maxi skirt for every season
- You will have a denim shirt as a part of your Summer Capsule Wardrobe – Check out the post to learn about which other pieces you’ll need
- How to build your own capsule wardrobe for Fall + outfit ideas
- Check out my Spring capsule wardrobe here!
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