How to Wear Denim to Work

Images: Imaxtree

We might be partial to a power pantsuit (especially if it’s in a rich jewel tone), but we are still very appreciative of offices with more casual dress codes that permit denim and jeans. A relaxed dress code means more creativity and making use of the ample denim pieces in our closets. As with anything at work, there are still limitations. And knowing them is key — unless we want to end up in an emergency HR meeting to explain our choice. Even if denim is OK at the office, the outfit must still be professional. Embellished jeans, shredded styles and 80s-approved acid-wash jeans might be trending, but they’re risky styles even for creative offices. To master work-appropriate denim, it’s best to stick with classic shapes in uniform washes with crisp hems. Save oversized styles and uneven hems for the weekend. Another word of advice: Don’t limit yourself to jeans. A crisp chambray button-down, denim dress or even a demure denim skirt could be suitable for the workweek with the right styling. No matter what style you pick, just remember that HR rules still trump style. We don’t want to see anyone get in trouble for violating the dress code in the name of fashion. Get inspired by these 15 sophisticated denim looks that earn fashion points and should get HR’s approval.

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How to Successfully Wear Denim to Work

Drape and Cinch

A waist-cinching belt makes any look more polished. This elegant outfit relies on classic pieces: a white blouse, trench, turtleneck and wide-leg jeans. It makes the more modern styling work without becoming a "corporate fashion victim" situation.
Shades of Blue

When it comes to work-appropriate denim, think structure. Wide-leg cropped jeans are neat and the polished vibes are enhanced with a jacket. Try a navy blazer and coordinating shirt for a chic monochromatic finish. Keep things interesting with heels and a bag in different neutrals.
In the Fringe

Remember denim skirts. They can exude elegant professionalism as much as jeans. See this below-the-knee pleated style with nipped jacket and flats. Those who can get away with T-shirts and tracksuits at work could try the frayed hem. In a more conservative office, opt for properly sewn hems.
No Need for Tights

Ease into wearing denim at work with the dresses-over-pants trend. Keep silhouettes reasonably streamlined to avoid looking sloppy. A neutral color combination and delicate sandals increase the chic finish.
Bring on the Beige

Neutrals are everywhere in fashion. For a supremely chic ensemble, break from blue jeans and try fresh white straight-leg jeans paired with a camel turtleneck and rusty brown leather blazer. Complete the look with white boots and red gloves — if it's cold enough.
Double Denim

This is not off-duty denim. Try a dressed-down (but still put-together!) take on suiting with chambray denim coordinates. Save the T-shirt for the weekend and team the tailored double denim with a printed blouse and white heels.
Bit of Blue

Denim doesn't always need to be the statement. In this fashionable work-appropriate outfit, it's all about the plaid coat, thick patent belt and neon bag. The light jeans are the supporting act. Choose hemmed jeans for the most polished finish. Those in a creative environments should be able to get away with some distressing.
Not Jeans

Button-down dresses are a staple in many spring and summer work wardrobes. Swap the cotton floral fabric for a belted, true-blue denim style. A roomy handbag and flats are practical, refined and office-appropriate.
Casual Fridays

Wondering how to do office-appropriate denim without a blazer? Enter the structured button-down. This cognac leather version ticks the trendy box and it has a unique finish tucked into the cropped jeans. Printed ankle boots show the wearer's personality without being too much.
Utilitarian Uniform

Boilersuits are a uniform for many for practical reasons. Those who work in more white-collar situations can experiment with the one-piece style by elevating it with a turtleneck, heels and a belt. Red lipstick and hoops don't hurt the neat vibes.
Buttoned Up

Make trendy button-fly jeans work for the office with a white blouse and statement midi coat. This outfit oozes femininity thanks to the embellished pink topper with ruffled sleeves and coordinating frilly blouse.
Corporate Caper

The rule of thumb is to balance more casual denim pieces with more formal, structured ones to keep the finish put together. This is a unique interpretation with the maroon leather cape, knee-length denim skirt and lace-up heels.
Color Block

Don't be afraid to wear color and denim to work. This neat ensemble has key work pieces like a turtleneck, an oversized coat and wide-leg pants. What makes the outfit special is the tops are in vibrant colors and the pants are crafted from denim.
Take it to the Maxi

Refresh a beloved plaid blazer with a maxi jean skirt, printed blouse and textured kitten heels. Just ensure the skirt is hemmed properly. Dragging denim is a no go.
Blue Days

Confident enough to try double denim? Rock a denim jacket with lighter wide-leg jeans. Balance out all of the blue with a mannish gray blazer and neutral boots. The final look is no Canadian tuxedo.