Styling Outfits with Light Wash Jeans
I have always been a denim girl for as long as I can remember.
Whether it was picking out cute denim shorts to wear at summer camp or styling a denim dress when I worked at Free People in college, I loved an excuse to reach for one of my favorite fabrics.
One thing that will always be a staple in my wardrobe? Light wash jeans.
Today I thought we could look back at some of my favorite looks featuring light wash denim over the years to serve up some outfit inspiration if you’re stuck on styling ideas.
Light wash denim may feel casual upon first glance, but it’s all in the styling. You may be surprised how much a silky top or a blazer can dress up denim.
Plus, I’ll share tips for what to keep in mind when shopping for your ideal pair of jeans, great silhouettes and more.
Shop light wash denim:
What to consider when buying light wash jeans:
When shopping for light wash jeans, it's all about finding that perfect pair that will seamlessly integrate into your wardrobe. Here are three things to keep in mind as you shop:
1. Fit is Everything
Whether you're into mom jeans, a slimmer fit, or something in between, find the fit that you like best.
You may prefer a stiffer denim (sometimes sizing up helps with this type of fabric) or go for the comfort of a jegging or jean with a bit more stretch to it.
Don’t be afraid to try on lots of options, including ones you didn’t picture yourself in initially. You never know what your favorite might be.
This actually happened to me when I first tried on the relaxed fit jeans from Abercrombie—I had never really purchased that silhouette before and now they’re my go-to pair of jeans.
2. Quality Counts
Opt for denim that's durable and holds its shape after multiple wears and after washing.
Pro tip: to keep denim looking its best, experts suggest only washing jeans every 3-5 wears.
A good quality pair will last you through every activity on your calendar in a given week, from coffee runs to late-night hangs with friends.
3. Versatility Rules
Light wash jeans will be a centerpiece of your wardrobe since they can be dressed up with a cute blouse and heels for a night out or paired down with a graphic tee and sneakers for a casual vibe.
Look for a pair that can easily transition and consider how you may style them from day to night or for two nights of a vacation, giving you endless styling options.
Outfit ideas
Bold Boots
Since we’re talking about light wash denim here, it’s easy to see how this unassuming shade of blue can almost become its own neutral. That’s why you can feel free to mix in bold prints like these leopard booties when styling outfits.
Flats First
Everyone knows that jeans and sneakers go together well. But if you want to dress up denim, a pointed-toe flat or mule can elevate your look.
Fun Accessories
When you keep the base of your outfit simple (aka sweater + jeans) you have so much room to jazz up the styling with your accessories. A printed scarf, studded boots or fun sunglasses can transform a look.
Out on the Town
Similarly, I love the look of distressed denim with a low heel. When you mix in a crop top in a fancy fabric like satin or silk, now you’re ready to meet your friends for drinks and dancing!
Halter Top
Another go-to summer look for me is my favorite light wash jeans and a halter top. This is great for keeping cool even on the sweatiest July days, and looks especially great with high-waisted denim.
Laid Back and Cozy
Sometimes simple is the way to go. One of my favorite outfits especially for spring or fall is to pair my denim with a mock neck sweater and a pair of sneakers.
Fishnet Tights
Feeling like you’re ready for an Avril Lavigne comeback? Layering mesh tights under distressed denim gives punk energy when mixed with boots and loose curls, but could also be super cute paired with heels and a sleeveless top.
Mesh Top
One cool girl layering trick that I’ve always loved is the pairing of a bodysuit and a long-sleeve mesh top. This one even had little foil stars all over it, but it instantly dresses up the overall look giving the classic jeans and a T-shirt combo a run for its money.
City Chic
If you want to add polish to an otherwise casual ‘fit, don’t be shy when it comes to mixing in accessories. A large work tote and a newsboy cap could do the trick, along with some colorful sunglasses.
Oversized Sweater
When it comes to pulling off relaxed fit denim, leaning into the proportions can be fun. For this, I decided to commit to both relaxed fit jeans and an oversized sweater, cinched in the middle with a belt.
Simple and Modern
Looking for an easy outfit idea that will never go out of style? Pair your light wash denim with all black—I love the square neck silhouette of this tank paired with the black sandals, belt and bag. It’s hard to go wrong!
Street Style
For a bit of an edge, you can always pair denim with a classic shoe that screams cool—like high-top Vans. I also liked adding the unexpected pop of red and the beret here for a more unique look.
Structured Top
If you have skinny light wash jeans, try wearing them with a very structured blouse. I loved this one from COS, pulled my hair back into a sleek ponytail and kept it simple with the accessories.
Sunday Mornings
Even your early Sunday bagel run can look chic! Again, with more fitted light wash denim styles an oversized sweater can deliver the same cool factor as a graphic tee–just with added warmth.
White Accessories
To brighten your overall look, try mixing in white accessories like a crisp white T-shirt, crossbody bag or pair of sneakers. This is a great way to style denim for summer—just try not to spill on anything.
Denim Style Options
Here are a few examples of denim silhouettes that you may consider buying
Mom Jeans
These high-waisted, relaxed-fit jeans are a staple in any cool girl's wardrobe (and are my personal go-to). They're super comfy and effortlessly chic, perfect for pairing with crop tops or tucked-in tees for that vintage-inspired vibe.
Skinny Jeans
A classic that never goes out of style! Skinny jeans usually have some stretch to them and they look great tucked into knee-high boots or with high heels.
Straight-Leg Jeans
Think of these as the perfect marriage of mom jeans and skinny jeans. Straight-leg jeans offer a more relaxed fit than skinnies but won’t look as baggy as mom jeans. They're perfect for achieving that effortlessly cool look without sacrificing comfort.
Wide-Leg Jeans
Channel your inner flower child with a pair of wide-leg jeans. With this dramatic silhouette, you can pair them with a fitted top to balance out the volume and add some platforms for extra height and attitude.
Boyfriend Jeans
Borrowed from the boys but made for us! Boyfriend jeans are relaxed, slouchy, and oh-so-comfy. They're great for those days when you want to look cute but not like you tried too hard. Pair them with a tucked-in tee and some chunky sneakers for the ultimate laid-back vibe.
I hope this gave you lots of ideas and you’re excited to style light wash jeans this season!
yours,
Austen