My wardrobe is a curious dichotomy: a striking contrast between knockout gowns and trusty jeans. The middle ground—day dresses, cocktail dresses, midi and mini skirts—remains largely unexplored. I’ve always gravitated towards jeans, and I’ve found countless ways to elevate them for year-round glamour. Let’s explore some of my favorite approaches.
First up: the timeless chic of jeans paired with a men’s white dinner shirt. This simple combination transforms with the right accessories. Think MAC Ruby Woo red lipstick for a pop of color, statement jewelry to add sparkle, and sparkling heels to elevate the look. Recently, I wore Jimmy Choo’s “Stevie” – black 100mm pumps with a crystal anklet – and the result was pure, effortless elegance. The comfort and sophistication were unbeatable.
Another winning combination is blue jeans, a black or white T-shirt, and a mid-shin skimming coat in luxurious black cashmere or leather. I adore the juxtaposition of the long coat’s sleek sophistication against the casual coolness of denim peeking from beneath. A pair of black or white patent shoes—perhaps Manolo Blahnik’s classic “Campari”—with sheer black stockings adds an extra touch of polished glamour.
The classic pairing of jeans and a men’s blazer is always a safe bet, offering versatility for various occasions. For low-key gatherings, a charcoal grey blazer with a white T-shirt and a chunky silver necklace feels modern and fresh, paired perfectly with simple black suede loafers from The Row. For more formal affairs, I favor Brunello Cucinelli men’s tuxedo jackets with piped satin shawl lapels. Alex Eagle’s sheer roll-neck top, crafted from a magical body-contouring mesh, is the ideal layering piece—so good, I believe everyone should own one!
Recently, I’ve rediscovered the power of belts. I’m particularly fond of Dehanche by Erin Webb; their minimal “Hollyhock” belt in black and silver offers a touch of Western flair with a polished, refined edge. It looks equally stunning high-waisted or low-slung. I recently added a 90s Chanel multi-chain belt with swinging CC medallions from The Real Real (yes, it’s a little bold, but it works surprisingly well with jeans and a T-shirt!). A similar style can currently be found on HEWI. Speaking of Chanel, a vintage Chanel jacket worn over jeans instantly elevates any look.
My go-to inspiration for styling jeans leans heavily on the ’90s and early 2000s aesthetic. Think Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, not Destiny’s Child – avoid the dated jeans-and-handkerchief-top look at all costs! Ultimately, the key is to counter the casualness of the jeans with polished details. Well-executed makeup and a perfect blow-dry make all the difference. Jeans can mistakenly suggest a lack of effort, but impeccable hair and makeup negate this impression.
My approach is best summarized by a paraphrase of Michelle Obama’s famous quote: “When they go low [jeans], we go high [everything else you wear].” With the right styling, jeans can be infinitely versatile and utterly glamorous.
