5 Ways to Style Denim Jackets for Summer that are Versatile and Fun

5 Ways to Style Denim Jackets for Summer that are Versatile and Fun

A denim jacket is without question one of my favorite wardrobe pieces. I love the versatility of denim jackets and how they elevate an outfit perfectly! A denim jacket is a wardrobe must in my opinion because it is SOOO comfortable and SOOO effortless to style. Moreover, a denim jacket is a classic wardrobe staple no matter the season. And, I know that you might be thinking, who wants to add layers during the summer? But, I love how a denim jacket adds a more fun and casual vibe to summer outfits. The key is to add light airy pieces in summer fabrics (think lightweight linen and cotton t-shirts) to pair with the denim jacket.

I am sharing a super fun round-up of multiple ways to style denim jackets of all kinds (cropped, distressed, and classic) and in a variety of washes (light, dark, white, cream) in this post.

Here are a few of the denim jackets featured in this post (affiliate links below):

5 Ways to Style Denim Jackets for Summer:

One of my favorite ways to style a classic denim jacket is to pair it with a basic white tee (crewneck or v-neck) and cropped white jeans. I love balancing proportions and the denim jacket accentuates cropped white and distressed jeans perfectly. Of course it is important to consider the weather, specifically the temperature when planning a denim jacket summer outfit. Using the denim jacket as a comfortable layer to add a casual vibe to the outfit is the key. And, I love how a classic denim jacket looks when paired against white jeans.

Here are IRL images of the Able Bailey Classic Denim Jacket paired with frayed white cropped jeans. Photos by Tina J. Smith Photography:

Shop the denim jackets featured in this post (affiliate links below):

I love how the outfit featured above looks great paired with the Able Aspen Cropped Denim Jacket, too! And, if you’re not a huge fan of cropped denim jackets, I think that this one might change your mind because it is not too cropped or too short. I styled my outfit by doing a bit of a half tuck to play with dimensions and I love how it turned out. Again, the key is to play with proportions and to balance the look with cropped white jeans. I added floral block heels and a classic leather tote to elevate the outfit.

Styling Denim Jackets with Strapless or Sleeveless Dresses:

Depending on your workplace culture or dress code, styling a denim jacket with a sleeveless or strapless dress provides ample opportunity to wear cute and fun summer dresses to work. And, adding a denim jacket offers another creative and versatile way to style a classic dress. A fun liberty print or floral dress works well because the denim jacket balances the bold print. The key here is to choose lighter airy fabrics such as linen, cotton, and silk so that you don’t get too hot. Moreover, this allows you to mix textures without trying too hard. This is also the perfect travel outfit in case the airport or the airplane (if you’re flying) is too cold. The denim jacket is an easily removable layer, too!

Finish off the sleeveless or strapless dress and denim jacket pairing with a fun handbag (a tote, a classic handbag, or a woven bag) and with classic sandals. I love pairing a denim jacket and dress combo with classic Tory Burch Miller Sandals. And the sandals are offered in a variety of solid and fun color combinations that make them super easy to style and to wear.

Styling Denim Jackets with Maxi Dresses

Another fun, creative, and versatile way to style a denim jacket is to pair it with a maxi dress. Here, I love the idea of balancing proportions and different lengths for visual interest. And, the denim jacket makes a sleeveless maxi dress work appropriate if your workplace has a conservative dress code. A denim jacket also looks great with a short-sleeve maxi dress with a bold or solid print. The denim jacket adds a comfortable and stylish layer that is suitable for warmer temperatures. A denim jacket paired with a maxi dress is the perfect outfit for errands, for a casual date night, or for brunch with friends.

Styling Denim Jackets with Pleated Maxi Dresses and Skirts

One of my favorite ways to style a denim jacket is to pair it with a pleated midi skirt or dress. I love the look of a light colored denim jacket (white or ecru) against a pleated midi dress. And, a blue and white pleated striped pleated midi skirt looks fantastic with a lighter wash denim jacket, a white tee, and white platform converse sneakers. The denim jacket really helps to balance the pleats beautifully in my opinion. Adding an oversized trucker denim jacket to a pleated maxi dress also helps to balance proportions in a fun and unexpected way, too!

Add fun Accessories

Adding fun accessories such as a classic woven raffia tote bag, a classic raffia clutch, a light colored leather tote, or gold earrings can elevate a denim jacket look while mixing textures effortlessly. And, these accessories are super light pieces that work well with summer temperatures.

Add a Classic Flat Sandal or Strappy Sandal

A fun neutral colored flat sandal, a strappy block heeled sandal, or a fun neutral colored wedge sandal is the perfect complement to a denim jacket outfit. A block heel makes the outfit a bit dressier while the flat sandal gives the denim jacket outfit a casual summer vibe. Tan, Black, or cognac colored sandals would pair well with any of the looks featured above. And, if you’re feeling bold and adventurous, sequin block heeled sandals or metallic kitten sandals are a fabulous option, too!

For more summer jacket styling inspiration, check out this post featuring the J. Crew Lady Jacket. And, another summer style inspiration post featuring a smocked summer dress.