What Is What Can You Wear With A Denim Shirt? A Simple Explanation

Denim shirts. Ah, the humble denim shirt. It’s like the chameleon of your wardrobe. You see it, you might think, “Oh, that’s just a blue shirt.” But no, my friends. This is no ordinary blue shirt. This is the denim shirt, and it’s way more fun than it lets on.
So, what makes this piece of fabric so darn special? It’s the ultimate wingman for your style. It’s cool, it’s casual, and it’s surprisingly versatile. Think of it as your go-to friend who’s always up for an adventure, whether that’s a chill coffee run or a slightly dressier evening out. The magic of the denim shirt lies in its ability to adapt. It can be dressed up or down with impressive ease. And that, my friends, is why we’re talking about it.
Let’s dive into the exciting world of what you can actually wear with this wardrobe superhero. Get ready to feel inspired!
The Great Denim Shirt Equation: Shirt + ??? = Awesome
Okay, so you’ve got your trusty denim shirt. Maybe it’s a classic light wash, a deep indigo, or even a trendy black. Whatever its shade, the real fun begins when you start pairing it with other things. This is where your personal style gets to play!
First up, the classics. What goes with denim? Well, more denim, of course! But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Let’s start with something simple. How about a pair of chinos?
Chinos are like the sensible, stylish cousin to jeans. They come in a rainbow of colors. Think khaki, olive green, navy, or even a fun burgundy. A light wash denim shirt with some olive green chinos? Chef’s kiss! A dark wash shirt with navy chinos? Effortlessly cool. It’s a look that says, “I put in just enough effort, and I know what I’m doing.” Plus, chinos are comfy. Winning!

Next, let’s talk about the king of casual: jeans. Yes, the double denim! Don't shy away from it. The trick is to mix your washes. A light denim shirt with dark wash jeans? Perfect. A dark denim shirt with black jeans? Super sleek. The key is contrast. If you go for matching washes, it can sometimes look a bit… much. But when done right, double denim is a powerful statement. It’s a look that screams confidence and a touch of rugged charm. Think of it as a uniform for anyone who loves comfort and a bit of an edge.
What if you want to dial it up a notch? Like, maybe you’re meeting friends for dinner and don’t want to look like you just rolled out of bed? Enter the trousers.
We’re not talking super fancy dress pants here, unless that’s your vibe. Think more along the lines of well-fitting, smart casual trousers. A pair of charcoal grey or black trousers can elevate your denim shirt instantly. It creates a nice juxtaposition: the casual texture of denim meeting the smoother, more structured look of trousers. Add a nice belt and some smart shoes, and you’ve got a look that’s ready for a relaxed dinner or even a casual Friday at work.

The denim shirt is your style secret weapon. It’s the shirt that makes you look good without trying too hard. It’s the ultimate ‘cool without trying’ piece.
And what about bottoms that are a little more… daring? Or perhaps just different? Let’s consider shorts.
Denim shirts and shorts are a match made in warm-weather heaven. Depending on the shorts, you can create a whole range of looks. A light denim shirt with classic khaki shorts? Perfect for a summer barbecue. A darker shirt with patterned shorts? A bit more playful. If you’re going for a more rugged, outdoorsy feel, cargo shorts can work too. Just make sure the colors complement each other. It’s a laid-back look that’s perfect for when the sun is shining and you’re ready to embrace the good vibes.
Now, let’s think about what you put under your denim shirt. Because this is another area where the denim shirt shines!

The most common pairing, of course, is a t-shirt. And this is where the fun really begins. A plain white t-shirt is a timeless classic. It’s the perfect canvas for your open denim shirt. It’s clean, it’s simple, and it always works. But why stop there?
Experiment with different colored t-shirts! A grey tee, a black tee, even a graphic tee can totally change the vibe of your outfit. A bold graphic t-shirt peeking out from under a denim shirt can add personality and a touch of rock-and-roll edge. A striped t-shirt? Suddenly, you’re channeling a bit of a nautical or Parisian chic. The t-shirt is your chance to add another layer of interest and color.
What about something a little more unexpected? Consider a henley shirt.

A henley is like a t-shirt with a fancy button-up collar. It adds a touch more texture and detail. Worn under an open denim shirt, it looks a bit more put-together and has a subtle utilitarian charm. It’s a great option for cooler days when you want a bit more warmth but still want that casual, layered look. The buttons on the henley add a nice visual element that pairs well with the sturdy fabric of the denim.
And then there are the sweatshirts and hoodies!
Yes, you can totally layer a denim shirt over a sweatshirt or even a hoodie. This is the ultimate cozy, casual look. Imagine a grey or black hoodie peeking out from under an open denim shirt. It’s warm, it’s comfortable, and it’s undeniably cool. This is your go-to for those days when you want maximum comfort without sacrificing style. The denim shirt adds a structured element to the softness of the hoodie, creating an interesting contrast.
The beauty of the denim shirt is its forgiving nature. It’s not fussy. It doesn’t demand perfect tailoring or delicate care. It’s just… there. Ready to be your style sidekick. So next time you’re staring into your closet, remember the power of the denim shirt. It’s not just a shirt; it’s a style opportunity waiting to happen.
