6 Simple Jeans-and-Shirt Outfits I'll Never Tire Of
Dressing adventurously comes more naturally to some people than others; the print-clashing, colour-blocking, accessory-embracing style gurus on Instagram certainly make it look easy. And while the skill involved in building a bold, busy and inventive look is admirable, I believe the enduring relevance of certain outfit formulas is just as impressive.
A select few fail-safe combinations have made it into my weekly roster—that's right, they're so good I can't go seven days without reaching for them. And lately, the reigning outfit among these old reliables has been jeans and a shirt. Yep, just a classic button-down and worn-in blue denim: It's as simple as that.
If you think about it, it's the perfect mix of laid-back and polished. The jeans say casual, while the shirt says smart. It's also a solid foundation from which to build interesting ensembles; just add some trending shoes to make it feel more current, and tailor your layers to the season as you carry this look through the year.
See for yourself—I've rounded up some of my favourite jeans-and-shirt outfits down below to inspire you. Plus, if you don't already own these wardrobe staples (although I am sure you do!) you can shop as you scroll and start recreating these looks instantly. Enjoy!
1. White Shirt + Blue Jeans + Shearling Coat
Style Notes: Give this formula the cold weather treatment by throwing a cosy shearling coat on top and stepping into a sleek pair of ankle boots.
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Coats might not be needed right now, but a little cosy jacket will still come in handy on the commute or when out for dinner.
2. Double Denim
Style Notes: Double denim might not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's certainly having a moment. If you're braving the look for the first time, try contrasting a blue denim shirt with washed black jeans.
Shop the Look:
I've heard only good things about these jeans. According to my sources, they run true to size.
3. Striped Shirt + Slim-Leg Jeans + Mules
Style Notes: Second to a white cotton shirt, a blue striped button-up is as timeless as it gets. Keep it from looking too corporate by styling it with slim blue jeans and mules.
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This crisp cotton will make you feel instantly put-together with minimal effort.
4. Black Shirt + Barrel Leg Jeans + Mules
Style Notes: Going out-out? Make this outfit evening-appropriate by opting for a black shirt and heeled mules. Comfortable and classy.
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Loewe's flamenco is one of the most beautiful bags I've seen.
5. Oversized Shirt + Wide-Leg Jeans + Cross-Body Bag
Style Notes: For a super relaxed everyday spin, pair an oversized shirt with wide-leg jeans. Doubly comfortable, doubly chic.
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Everyone I know is coveting a pair of New Balance trainers and the 574 are the perfect style for casual dressing and beyond.
6. Open Shirt + Baggy Jeans + Turtleneck
Style Notes: Treat your shirt as a layering piece to add more dimension to your ensemble. A while turtleneck worn underneath will also keep you warm during these transitional months.
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If all the positive reviews are anything to go by, this affordable shirt is worth adding to your wardrobe.
A timeless staple you can incorporate into countless different outfits.
These hardy loafers will be in your collection for years to come.
Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer. After receiving an Audrey Hepburn box set for her 10th birthday and subsequently swooning over the actor’s wardrobe, Bébhinn felt pretty confident she wanted a career that involved clothes. She started her first blog at age 14—the title was a pun, but we’ll leave it at that—and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.
A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor for Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and updated takes on classic designs.
While she still loves Audrey Hepburn films, these days, Bébhinn’s sartorial taste sits closer to Annie Hall’s and Alexa Chung’s. In her spare time, she’s likely cooing over cute dogs on rescue websites, playing folk songs on her guitar and browsing bookshops for new additions to her already-overpacked shelves.
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