The Best Denim to Wear in the Summer
What Is Denim?
Denim was originally created in Nîmes, France, and it was called “serge de Nîmes”. The word denim is an abbreviation of “de Nîmes”, giving us “denim”. It was created from cotton to be durable for things like mining and farm work. The reason why denim feels so different from a cotton t-shirt is that denim is made using a twill weave. This tight weave is what gives denim its durability and unique texture. Today, denim is often worn for fashion instead of function, with near endless colours, styles, and clothing options.
Denim vs Jean
Technically speaking, denim is a type of fabric. Jeans are just pants made from denim. That said, “denim” and “jeans” are both used interchangeably in many cases. For example, denim jackets are more commonly called “jean jackets”.
What Are the Different Types of Denim?
Colours & Styles
One of the reasons denim is so popular is its versatility. Originally, denim was dyed using indigo, giving us classic blue jeans. Today, denim comes in just about every style, including blue, black, and almost every other colour of the rainbow you can think of. Just like any other clothing piece, various styles of denim come in and out of fashion, like the acid wash denim of the 80s. The most popular and most wearable colour, however, is still the original blue jean blue.
Clothing Pieces
The other great thing about denim is pretty much any clothing piece can be made with denim. Jeans are a staple in any wardrobe, but denim shorts, skirts, jackets, and shirts are all fantastic options for summer style.
How to Style Denim for Summer
Casual
Just about any style of denim will work for a casual look–that’s one of the reasons why it’s so popular. Jeans and a t-shirt are a quintessential casual look, and you can tailor them to fit your style. For a more summery twist on this look, try a jean skirt. Jean skirts are great for summer. Simply pair them with your favourite top and a pair of sandals, and you have the perfect summer casual look.
Beachy
For a beachy summer look, you can’t go wrong with jean shorts. Denim shorts are a summer staple and you can easily swap out jeans for jean shorts in most looks. If you’re headed to the beach, jean shorts can be paired with your bikini top and flip-flops for an effortless look. For more coverage, simply throw on a tank top or cover-up.
Formal
Denim is inherently casual, largely from its origins as work wear. So while you probably can’t get away with denim at a black tie event, there are definitely ways to make denim work for a business casual or date night look. Like most fabrics, denim will look more dressed-up if you choose a darker colour. Dark blue or black jeans paired with a nice blouse would be acceptable for many workplaces or restaurants. Aside from jeans, jean jackets are also great for classier looks. Pair a summer dress with a denim jacket for a look that’s dinner appropriate and will keep you warm into the evening.
