5 Tips for Pulling off the Denim on Denim look

There’s a fine line between wearing a chambray or denim shirt & jeans, and going full Canadian Tuxedo. And it’s not so easy to figure out. Follow the five suggestions below, and you’ll minimize your risk of looking like Chuck Norris in Invasion USA, or worse. For the sake of simplicity, & since they look similar (they are different), we might use the terms “Chambray” & “Denim” interchangeably.

1. Keep it dark

Seems like lighter washes of blue jeans made a bit of a comeback last year, but for a double denim look, keep it dark. Don’t even come close to crossing the border into Stonewashistan.

2. But still have contrast

It’s very similar to mixing patterns. You want a noticeable, visual break between pants & shirt, or pants & jacket. And that means either different shades, noticeably different textures (such as a lighter weight chambray fabric w/ heavier denim) or both.

3. Layer

Jeans + denim shirt = tough to pull off. Jeans + denim shirt + v-neck sweater? Absolutely. This is also a great place to bring in an affordable tweed or chino blazer. The great ocean of denim you’re awash in gets broken up by a continent or two of other items.

4. Work in unusual or bright colors

Now’s the time to use that brighter summer belt, colored shoe laces, or a pocket square that’s got too much personality for the office. You’re throwing out a visual flare which should balance the attention of an observer.

5. Wear an interesting or bold accessory

Could be a larger chronograph, a different style of glasses than your every day pair, or a belt with a different buckle. Similar to #3 in the fact that you’re drawing a little attention away from the almost uniformity of fabrics on your torso and legs.

Your turn guys. Have you tried the denim on denim thing? What seems to be successful for you? Leave it all in the comments below…

Top Photo: Shirt by Banana Republic (unavailable), Levis 505 in Tumbled Rigid, Belt by Brooks Brothers (unavailable), Joseph Abboud Made in the USA Soft Construction Wool/Silk Blazer