This Season, Denim Trousers Ought to Be Firm, Polished and Tailored

An amusing event happened at this year's Venice film festival: a famous actress appeared in blue jeans. Ordinarily, a film festival premiere entrance means chiffon and glitter, revealed décolletage and sweeping hems. Yet this star opted for midnight high-end trousers paired with a light striped shirt and a tailored blazer. And, even if it's true that if you possess a iconic grin, your clothing carries less weight – still. It represented a turning point. A new era of looking smart in denim pants is here.

Most of us are somewhat conflicted regarding denim trousers. They are our standard choice on a Saturday, however when the occasion calls to appear polished, we choose something else. But denim pants, styled correctly, can bring you to your workplace or a fine dining spot with flair to spare. Additionally, most of us don't have to be overly concerned about the red carpet, after all.

A blazer is to blue jeans what makeup applied to a bare face. The pairing results in a style appear deliberate and planned, which projects confidence.

We'll begin by covering fundamentals. Should your denim droop at the knees or sweep on the pavement, no amount of elegant top skill will salvage the look. Sophisticated denim are about defined shapes, precise cut and a style that enhances you. The overly broad trousers presently everywhere these days may appear great elevated for let-loose events. Yet for a style that reads as dressy casual, a straight leg hits the appropriate tailoring-adjacent note, and the hem needs to fall precisely at the top of your footwear. Streamlined trousers are beneficial because they are able to act appropriately in company. Should tailored denim had a personality, they would be punctual and well-mannered, highly organized. That's why they are your friend here.

The typical blunder we make when attempting to appear polished in denim is to endeavor to downplay the jeans. If you wear dull denim trousers and cover them with a stylish top up top in the hope that not a soul will notice you are sporting jeans, you fail to hide the fabric – you appear thrown on, which is not the intention whatsoever. A classic belt that highlights of the trousers is the way to go.

Firm fabric provides the best outline, so aim for little stretch. The waist ought to be at your waist – any style low-rise sends a more casual impression – and fitted but not uncomfortable. You will use a belt regardless (see above, stay with me) and it's not advisable trousers should ever be uncomfortable. You should feel held, but not compressed.

A coat combined with denim what a bold lip color on a bare face. The juxtaposition creates an outfit appear deliberate and planned, which exudes self-assurance. The pairing of jeans with refined fabric or textured cloth adds texture and detail. This works over a top or casual top for day, or something slinkier for dinner. Choose a linked necklace or a minimalist earring as opposed to a long chandelier earring. It feels quite European, get the picture?

Denim-with-a-chic-top is a classic for a reason, notably if you are stepping out for dinner. Beginning with trousers simplifies creating an look easier, which is convenient if it's a quick post-work transition. A delicate undershirt under your jacket is a straightforward choice that provides you options: you may retain the layers intact if you are near the door with a cool draft, or remove the coat away if you start to getting warm in warm room temperature.

The right shoe sets the tone between relaxed sophistication and popped-out-for-bin-bags. It doesn't have to be a high heel, though it isn't a bad idea. A classic shiny pump with a jean is perennially fashionable, but flat shoes, clean sneakers or short boots are all good. A glimpse of skin someplace is always a pleasant touch, if the weather permits: two buttons undone on a blouse, or a bare sandal if you are in a high-necked sweater.

At times the straightforward selection turns out to be the smart one. And when it's good enough for the Venice red carpet, it's good enough for your corner table in a neighborhood cafe.

Jesse Jones
Jesse Jones

Lena Visser is an investigative journalist and storyteller based in Amsterdam, focusing on human interest and social issues.