The Do’s & Don’ts of Styling Men’s Denim

You might remember that time back in 2001 — a lifetime ago — when Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake famously dated and, more importantly, wore matching denim outfits on the red carpet. (Google “Britney and Justin denim.” Trust us, you want to see it.)

Or maybe you remember the red carpet evolution of 50 Cent, who went from oversized men’s denim and NBA jerseys to tailored suits and more tapered jeans. It was a weird time, and we can safely say Justin and 50 should stick to their suits and ties rather than take us back to the early 2000s.

If you’re looking for tips on how to wear a denim jacket or rock denim at a semi-fancy occasion, don’t take fashion advice from those two. Come to us; we always have your back.

We’ve put together a list of Hibbett | City Gear-approved denim how-to’s for men to ensure you never have a fashion faux pas. 

Do … Embrace Double Denim

Not to harp too much on the poor choices of JT, but his Canadian tuxedo just didn’t work. Have no fear, though! We know how to wear double denim and do it right. The key is to pick two different denim washes.

Black jeans with a light-wash blue top? Yes, please. Olive-colored denim pants paired with a darker wash shirt? DO IT. Want to wear a black denim jacket with white jeans? Great idea!

We’re digging the vibe of 8 & 9 Men’s Strapped Up Utility Pants in an olive color with a tee and black Smoke Rise Denim Jacket. Or double down on your denim with this matching cargo pants and utility jacket combo.

Do … Dress Up Your Denim

While you probably don’t hit up many red carpets, the beauty of jeans is they can go anywhere. Nice restaurant? Pair tailored denim pants with a sports coat. Accentuate black jeans and a black top with a tie. A concert, a gathering of friends or a date night out all deserve the comfort of your favorite pair of denim. Try a straight pair of Levi’s Straight Fit 501 Polished Black Denim or the Levi’s 512 Taper Fit Worn to Ride Jeans with a collared shirt or jacket.

Do … Distress Your Denim

… or buy a distressed pair. No matter the color of your pants, a series of rips along the knees gives any outfit an edgy vibe. We love the look of the Smoke Rise Men’s Slim Tapered Jeans and the Grindhouse Bowery Blue Distressed Slim Fit Jeans.

Now here’s what you don’t want to do when it comes to your denim.

Do … Play Up Printed Denim

Yes, you can wear a plain old denim jacket, but why not try jazzing it up a bit with colorful stitching and graphic embellishments? The same goes for denim shorts and pants. Plenty of brands offer streetwear-ready denim designs you’ll love. For a subtle, yet bold, statement, pick up a pair of Grindhouse Men’s Graffiti Shorts or the Smoke Rise Sharpie Cargo River Blue Tapered Jeans.

Don’t … Listen to What Other People Say

While we’re laying out guidelines in this post, rules are meant to be broken. If you find a look you really love, you do you! There are other articles out there that advise against splashy colors, blingy accessories and skinny jeans. Own your style because trends come and go, but your confidence is the only trend that will never go out of fashion.

Find all your men’s denim needs — from pants and shorts to shirts and jackets — at your nearest Hibbett | City Gear, or browse our selection online.