12 Versatile Ways to Wear a Denim Shirt

A denim shirt is just as essential as your LBD.

model in denim shirt

DION LAMAR MILLS FOR BYRDIE

We could talk for hours about the wonders of denim. It’s one of the most durable, classic, and versatile fabrics. That’s why adding a denim shirt to your wardrobe should be a no-brainer, as it is the perfect staple to an assortment of chic looks. In fact, we would argue that a denim shirt is just as essential to have in your wardrobe as your LBD.

Don’t believe us? Keep scrolling to see just how many ways you can make this classic piece work for you.

01 of 12

With White Jeans

White jeans with denim make our hearts pitter-patter with happiness. The relaxed ready-to-wear look makes us think of our best and most stylish vacation days. Complete the outfit with a sleek saddle bag that can easily hold your passport, and you’re ready for take-off.

Puff Sleeve Denim Button-Up Shirt by Frame
Frame Puff Sleeve Denim Button-Up Shirt $298.00 $223.00
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Hoxton Skinny Jeans
Paige Hoxton Skinny Jeans $170.00
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Mulberry darley satchel bag
Mulberry Small Darley Satchel $675.00
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02 of 12

With Cropped Khakis

Seeing two classic materials like khaki and denim together makes the person wearing them look absolutely chic. Pair it with some chunky accessories to complete the outfit.

50s Frayed Denim Shirt
Re/Done 50s Frayed Denim Shirt $380.00
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willow cargo pants
Superdown Willow Cargo Pants $78.00
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Cassius Chain
Loren Stewart Cassius Chain $231.00
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03 of 12

With Tulle

There is something so fun and fitting about a denim and tulle duo. The mix of cotton-candy-esque whimsy paired with an everyday piece will guarantee to bring a smile to everyone you strut past. And let's be honest, every time we see iconic Carrie Bradshaw clad in a tulle skirt on the opening credits of SATC, we’ve been looking for any excuse to wear one as well. 

R13 cropped denim shirt
R13 Cropped Denim Shirt $395.00
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Tulle Midi Skirt
Lace & Beads Tulle Midi Skirt $61.00
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Chocolate Bar Clutch
No Ka' Oi Chocolate Bar Quilted Clutch $82.00
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04 of 12

With Animal Print

Animal print is a bold print on its own, so try pairing it with simpler pieces. Denim is the perfect fabric to pair with an animal print maxi as it’s strong enough to carry the print without getting in its way. Give this outfit some more structure by adding a neutral belt and get ready to prowl your way through the day. 

luvamia Denim Shirt
Luvamia Long Sleeve Denim Shirt $36.00
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Reformation Bea Skirt
Reformation Bea Midi Skirt $148.00
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Croco Leather Belt
& Other Stories Croco Leather Belt $55.00
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05 of 12

With Floral Skirts

There is something about denim and flowers that reminds us of all the best parts of spring. Here, the floral midi skirt and denim shirt make the perfect pair.

Denim Shirt
Zara Denim Shirt $30.00
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DVF Beverly floral skirt
DVF Beverly Floral Print Midi Skirt $164.00
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Heeled Slingbacks
Zara Heeled Slingbacks $70.00 $50.00
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06 of 12

With Pajama Pants

Yes, you can wear your pajama pants outside. We only ask you to give them a quick steam if they’re wrinkled and pair them with a structured denim shirt. With this look, you’re set up for a comfortable day.

Westin Denim Shirt Jacket
Alex Mill Westin Denim Shirt Jacket $175.00
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Pijama The Kiss Printed Silk-Twill Wide-Leg Pants
AZ Factory Pijama The Kiss Printed Silk-Twill Wide-Leg Pants $280.00 $168.00
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Zara lace up flat flower sandals
Zara Lace Up Flower Flat Sandals $60.00
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07 of 12

With A Maxi Dress

Nothing screams warm weather like a maxi dress. But if you spot some clouds in the sky or can still feel a bite in the breeze, tying a denim shirt over your maxi dress will provide you with ample style and warmth. 

Denim Button-Up Shirt in Bluffton Wash
Madewell Denim Button-Up Shirt in Bluffton Wash $85.00
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Amazon Essentials Women's Tank Waisted Maxi Dress
Amazon Essentials Women's Tank Waisted Maxi Dress $33.00
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The Denim Small Tote Bag
Marc Jacobs The Denim Small Tote Bag $275.00
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08 of 12

With Layers of Denim

When it comes to denim, there is never too much of a good thing. So, go all out with a head-to-toe denim look. 

Rails patchwork denim shirt
Rails Ingrid Patchwork Denim Shirt $188.00
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High Rise Wide-Leg Jeans with Washwell ($28)
Gap High Rise Wide-Leg Jeans with Washwell $45.00
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Rothy's 'The Point' Toe Flats
Rothy's ' The Point Toe Flats $149.00
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09 of 12

With Leather

Leather—or faux leather—adds a commanding boldness to an outfit. The softness of this denim shirt balances the look. Round out the ensemble with a pop of color at the bottom.

Sezane Servanne shirt
Sézane Servanne Shirt $120.00
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Sanctuary Clothing Leather Like Slit Skirt in black
Sanctuary Clothing Leather Like Slit Skirt in black $89.00
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Aerosoles Sussex Bootie platform ankle boots in wine red shade
Aerosoles Sussex Bootie platform ankle boots in wine red shade $175.00
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10 of 12

With Faux Fur

We love blending textures. This specific fusion of fur and denim works for day or night.

Denim Perfect Shirt
Gap Denim Perfect Shirt $29.00
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blank nyc faux fur jacket
BLANKNYC Faux Fur Jacket $98.00
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ysl-kate-small-shoulder-bag
YSL Kate Small Chain Bag $2,100.00
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11 of 12

Tied Around Your Waist

A denim shirt tied around the waist is a great way to make an outfit more casual. Try slinging one around your hips during the daytime with an outfit that you would usually save for evening outings, and voila, you’re ready for a cocktail-fueled brunch. 

Medium Wash Denim Button Up Shirt
Torrid Medium Wash Denim Button Up Shirt $47.00
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Control Top Faux Patent Leather Leggings
Commando Control Top Faux Patent Leather Leggings $118.00
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MyBody Stretch-Knit Tank
AZ Factory MyBody Stretch-Knit Tank $310.00 $183.00
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12 of 12

With Wide-Leg Pants

Wide leg pants can have a mind of their own. Pairing them with a tapered denim shirt will balance the look. Finally, complete the outfit with some celestial silver earrings for an even more beautifully grounded appearance. 

Ariat Fariday denim shirt
Ariat Farriday Denim Shirt $80.00
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Smocked Wide Leg Pants
Smocked Wide Leg Pants Michael Stars $138.00
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Cecilia Hoop
Humans Before Handles Cecilia Hoop $45.00
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Lead image wardrobe provided by H&M and Revolve.

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