Ways to don denim this spring

The twill-weave textile offers more than just jeans

Now that the cold has retreated, we can stop using sturdy fabrics as an excuse to layer up. That includes denim, which has been a loyal companion through the winter season. With spring taking form, you might find your resident fashion aficionados leading the season with this timeless cotton textile – and not just with the signature jeans.

The best thing about denim is you’ll always find it in your wardrobe. But why stick to the basics? Bring your choices up a notch by adorning denim in all its deceptively flexible ways. And fear not. If the fabric snags, that’s a statement, too.

Starting from the bottoms

It goes without saying that a traditional pair of jeans is a year-rounding pick. But let the season of flowers be the reason for your sartorial creativity to shine. Instead of the usual straight, skinny jeans, opt for jeans that flare down your legs for a breezy look.

Take inspiration from Valentino’s wide-leg, high-rise jeans. These come with a metallic trim that offers a splash of colour brushing along the ankles – a touch away from the usually uniform-coloured bottoms. The floral patchwork markedly defines the line between wearing denim and styling it. Faded denim jeans never get old, and now with a vibrant colour combination at their hem, you can pair your pants with a tucked in top just as bright to bring out that florid theme.

Another style choice attracting notice this season are barrel jeans, though these are a disputed pick in the world of fashion. However, drawing influence from Revolve’s mid-rise barrel jeans might help you reconsider. Best complemented with heels, this inflated look promises to serve curvy figures and add a vintage edge to modern streetwear.

But why stop at jeans when long skirts are all the rage this season, too? Take note of Anthropologie’s raw-edge denim midi skirt; it champions the breathable look you might be searching for, this spring. Razor-ripped down the edges, this look should inspire those who prefer bottoms that bode well with the changing weather. And the best part? It has pockets too. Perhaps, if you have a long denim skirt lying around, it might be time to get creative with the fabric’s snaggy pliability.

But keep the razor away if you lean towards a smooth wrap down the legs, like the brand’s Saskia wavy panelled denim maxi skirt. Spliced in wavy patterns, a skirt like this is your why-choose option when you’re wondering which denim blue suits you best. If you’re fond of stitching, go wild with the patchwork, for it’s all about flaunting the blues. Pair the skirt with a ruffle crop-top and you have an enviable picnic look down.

Onto the tops

Let it be known that denim-on-denim is not a crime – at least not in spring. Think India Amarteifio’s denim crop and slit skirt outfit for Stella McCartney last year. With crop tops being a strong contender this breezy season, it only makes sense to elevate your look with denim.

Button up with jean jackets, a simple article that can be paired with both maxi skirts and straight jeans. Take Levi’s trucker jacket for instance. But if you want to embrace spring in style, go for patch jackets like Ralph Lauren’s embroidered patch trucker jacket, which is pinned with symbols emulating a nostalgic feel. This is as good an opportunity as any to pick up a DIY hobby; grab your motley of patches and pins and an old denim jacket, and get sewing. Remember, more is more.

But if covering the midriff is more your speed then there’s always the comfort of an assembled look waiting to be donned. To offer a style inspiration, Lorenza’s denim jumpsuit clings to the figure beautifully, allowing for a uniform yet polished look without much effort. It’s all about the quiet class. And if you’re aiming for a more laid-back look then simple denim overalls, like those the women’s vintage ones at Levi’s, are the way to go.

Easy and timeless, these combinations are a pleasant reminder that this twill-weave textile offers more than what you can possibly ask for. And spring is a generous season, so don’t stop asking!