23 denim and white outfit ideas

Hello and happy almost Friday!

Writing this sitting on my BACK DECK today because we have the most beautiful weather! It finally feels like summer! 🙌🏼 (In Chicago I feel like we go through several rounds of saying, “summer is finally here!” before it’s ACTUALLY here, but I’m hoping this really is the time that summer is here to stay.)

And speaking of summer, it’s the season to wear one of my favorite style combos: denim and white! Denim and white outfits are a great go-to formula for looking polished and put together. Seems simple–but it works! I realized I have LOTS of outfits I’ve worn over the years that fall into this category and that maybe a round-up was in order.

While it’s a match especially suited for warm weather–you can rock denim and white in pretty much any season of the year and for any occasion–whether I’m running errands, heading to work at a coffee shop, or going out with friends, these outfits are some of my most trusted go-to’s. (Truly some of these photos are like 7 years old. 😂 Proof these outfits withstand the test of time!)

So… let’s dive into some of my favorite denim and white outfit ideas!

12 Denim And White Outfit Ideas

Everlane crew neck tee, Everlane original cheeky jeans, similar heels, similar blazer

Quince leather jacket (TTS. Went with a medium for a slightly more relaxed fit), Sezane jeans (TTS but go with your larger size if you’re in between), Schutz Arissa ballet flats (go 1/2 size down), Clare V tee(gifted) and Grande Fanny with added resin strap

Jeans & Classic White Tee OR Jeans & Graphic Tee

The classic combination of jeans and a white tee can be considered a pillar in every wardrobe. Whether you’re a skinny jeans girl (yes, you can absolutely still wear your skinny jeans! Wear what you love!) or if you’re more into a wide leg, flare, or a straight leg jean, pair them with a classic white tee, and you’ve got a foundation for a great outfit.

A good pair of jeans and a trusty white tee is a no-brainer for any casual occasion. Finding the perfect white tee isn’t easy–but many of the shirts I wrote about in my (years old) best white t-shirts post are still alive and kicking! A few new favorites though: Abercrombie’s baby white tee, the Able Mae drapey tee (also comes in v-neck) (JESSKEYS15 gets you 15% off on your ABLE order), and CUTS white tomboy tee!

Even timple? Yes. Timeless? Absolutely. Classic? You bet. While pairing this combo with sneakers is a no brainer, try mixing it up with some heels for a more elevated casual look. Whether it’s strappy sandals for a date, or pumps for the office. (Just add a blazer, and you’re ready for a meeting!) The above photos are many years old, but I think the classic style formula still holds up! (Although these days I’d probably pair with these low cap-toe heels instead. 😉)

ABLE Jane maxi dress,(similar here from GAP) Merly denim jacket, Freda Salvador sneakers (the best white sneakers!) JESSKEYS15 gets you 15% off your ABLE purchase

White Dress with Denim Jacket

A white summer dress with a denim jacket is another combo that never goes out of style. Sure, the style of the dress might change over time, but this stylish pairing won’t! There are endless ways to style maxi dresses, but pairing a feminine white flowy maxi with a more edgy denim jacket creates a really interesting outfit, in my opinion–with the contrasting styles, structures, textures and silhouettes! (Read this post on my juxtaposition rule–if you haven’t yet, it’s super helpful in putting together outfits!) In the summer, a mini or knee-length dress is a great silhouette to try out, too. I love this kind of look paired with white sneakers, but a sandal or heel would look great, too!

Sweatshirt: old, but here is similar!, Denim: old, but here is similar at Old Navy, Sneakers: Freda Salvador sneakers (the best white sneakers!), Jacket: Barbour Beadnell, Scarf: old, but here is a checkered black and white option!, Hat, Boots: Nordstrom miller waterproof Chelsea boots (also love the Blondo lug soles)

White Sweatshirt & Ripped Denim Jeans

If you’re going for something more relaxed and sporty, try styling a white sweatshirt or hoodie with some ripped denim jeans! It’s comfortable, a little tomboy chic, but still looks put-together. Perfect for everything from errands to weekend brunch. Depending on the weather, you can pair it with sneakers, ankle boots, or, if you need more layers, I love to style sweatshirts, for example (something sporty) with something opposite–like a Barbour jacket (preppy) to elevate it and keep it interesting. Always play around with opposites! More on that style trick I call “the juxtaposition rule” right over here.

Sweatshirt: A&W White Chicago sweatshirt, Denim Jacket: ABLE Merly Jacket, Leggings: ribbed style from Amazon, Bag: Clare V grande fanny, Kizik sneakers (run big, go down 1/2 size), Amazon baseball cap

White Shirt, Denim Jacket, and Leggings

Speaking of comfy, let’s dive deeper on that subject, shall we? Another great formula to keep in your back pocket: a white shirt (whether that’s a tee, something more structured like a button-down, etc.), a denim jacket, and black leggings. Because sometimes, you just can’t with hard pants.

Who doesn’t live in leggings these days? I have mastered the art of making them look like real clothes. (See 5 athleisure outfits with leggings right here!) I love pairing leggings or bike shorts with a jean jacket to make your outfit look less athleisure and more “real clothes.” If you’re looking for a sturdy, durable jean jacket that is super comfy and will never go out of style–see this blog post where I compare my favorites.

Cardigan: old but this Everlane + Quince cardigan are similar, Jeans: similar here from Everlane, Brown Booties: LOFT clog booties, Black Boots: Nordstrom miller waterproof Chelsea boots (also love the Blondo lug soles) Black Skinny Jeans: similar here from Madewell

White Sweater or Cardigan And Jeans

If it still hasn’t warmed up weather-wise where you are, don’t worry-I’ve got some cozy ideas for you in here, too! A white cardigan and jeans is a staple outfit combo in this house and one I wear for many months straight during the winter. It keeps you warm but the white color helps brighten things up and feels like a breath of fresh air amidst the dark clothing I typically wear when it’s cold out!

A cardigan is great because it can be both a bottom layer or a top layer–button it down the front and wear it as a stand-alone sweater, or layer it over a tee or turtleneck for added coziness. (More on how to style a cardigan with your favorite jeans here.)

You can always accessorize with ankle boots, a scarf, and a tote bag just to pull it all together if you’re headed out. If you need some more inspiration, check out some of my favorite everyday fall outfits.

Jeans: A.Golde Riley jeans, Top: old but similar here and if you want puff sleeve sans peplum, I have this white puff sleeve top and adore it, too! Loafers: Sam Edelman

Top: Able Drew smocked peplum blouse Jeans: Able Chelsie jeans (this wash is sold out but I love their light wash too!) Shoes: ABLE Tamara heels (Use code JESSKEYS15 for 15% off all ABLE–all of these reviewed here!)

White Peplum and Denim

For a spring-y summer-y outfit I love a white peplum or puff sleeve blouse. Puff-sleeve tops look so cute with everything from jeans to denim shorts and add a little something extra. I love the contrasting vibes of raw-hem denim with a feminine top! Pair with your favorite flats or loafers, sandals or sneakers. A super easy combo that can go from day to night so easily!

Trench: London Fog trench (mine is very old but that style is most similar!) also love Sezane’s trench, and j.crew’s trench, Flats: my favorite Rothys (read my Rothys review here!) Pants: Everlane straight leg crops, Top: Sezane mariner top, Scarf: similar Sezane scarf

White Jeans and Striped Top

Striped tops and white jeans go together like PB&J–and I bet you already own both of these items in your wardrobe! If you’re never quite confident in what to wear with white jeans, rest assured that you can never go wrong with a striped tee, striped sweater–any kind of striped top, really! I actually wore this type of outfit on my last trip to Paris and I loved how chic and simple it was. I styled it with a white trench, classy flats, and a colorful scarf. Versatile, polished, and timeless. A chef’s-kiss of an outfit that can be modified for any time of year.

Top: similar Brightside Madewell top (they make these in a handful of colors too!), Jeans: Madewell The Perfect Vintage wide leg crops (run big, go down a size if you don’t want them roomy!)

Tank Top and White Jeans

Warm weather is the best time to go back to basics (as Ina says). I love a neutral on neutral, tonal outfit–something about it just seems so beachy and effortless. I love this combo of white jeans with an off-white tank.

Wear this combo to a picnic, outdoor concert, cocktails–wherever!

White top: old, similar here, Beige trench: old, but I love Sezane’s classic version, Straight Leg Jeans: Everlane Sneakers: old, similar at Madewell and Everlane (both reviewed here!) Cream Cardigan: old, similar at Quince which is becoming a new favorite and Everlane, Brown loafers: old, these Sam Edelman are a great option too

White Denim Jeans and a White Top

Closely related to tonal outfits (outfits with different shades of the same color) are another favorite of mine–monochromatic outfits! (That is, outfits made up of the same shade of the same color–i.e. White on white!) A white top and white jeans combo is just such a fresh and chic look–one that is also very timeless. (Proof being: that blog post is four years old and I think the outfits still hold up!)You can definitely dress it up with a button-up, cardigan and flats. A white button-up is one of my favorite year-round wardrobe staples, and is a great choice if you’re looking for a way to dress jeans up for the office.

Keep in mind, none of these have to be WHITE white – an off-white color looks really pretty especially if you’re using a lot of it at once! Minimalist, yet effortless.

Denim Shirt: old but I love this AYR button down, Jeans: old, these Levi’s are a perfect fit Tote: Madewell Transport Tote

Denim on Denim

I am ALWAYS down for a Canadian tuxedo. If you’ve been wondering how to style a denim button-up, just wear it with your denim jeans! Sometimes people shy away from the monochromatic-ness of it but LEAN INTO IT!

I really don’t think there’s a hard and fast rule to pairing denim on denim. I think confidence is really the #1 key. If you’re having trouble, you may find that an easy place to start is choosing a pair of jeans that are a similar color/tone to your shirt. (I.E. light on light) and going more casual–such as pairing with sneakers or sandals. You may have to try a few different pairs of jeans to make it feel “just right”–so don’t be afraid to experiment!

Top left: Button Down: Able Harris white button down JESSKEYS15 gets you 15% off your ABLE purchase (also love the Summersalt white button down) Top right: Top: Reformation button-front top, Belt: Sezane belt (mine is old but they have other similar!), Leather Jacket: Able Maha leather jacket Bottom left: old Sezane (similar Sezane sweaters here) Brown Booties: LOFT clog booties, Bottom right: White Tee: ABLE Mae drapey tee, Tan western Booties: similar here, Long cardigan: Old, similar here

White Top and High-Waisted Jeans

Let’s be honest here, I only wear high-waisted jeans. I am very disgruntled about mid and low rise jeans creeping back into style and yes, I know, my age is showing. It is what it is. High waisted jeans just make everyone look great! You can wear them with something simple, like a tucked plain white tee with a cardigan over top. Or, you can go with a sort of textured, lace pattern sweater. (I LOVE Sezanes sweaters–especially all their dreamy white sweaters.) More outfit ideas in my cold weather outfits post here if you are looking for some transitional style inspo for chilly days!

Jean shorts, top old but I love Faherty’s gauze top and Willa top

Jean shorts, Freda Salvador sneakers (the best white sneakers!) J.Crew white tank (I LOVE this and own in black as well!) similar striped long-sleeve tee, old belt bag, sunglasses

White Top and Distressed Denim Shorts

And… last but not least… the failsafe summer go to: a white top with jean shorts. (Which you can often find me wearing multiple times per week when it’s warm outside! Counting down the days until I can do that again!) Whether you’re heading to a BBQ, a park picnic, the pool, the beach, a baseball game–this is an outfit formula you’ll wear forever. The top I’m wearing above is old, but one of my go-to white tops to pair with jeans shorts is Faherty’s Willa top! It’s the perfect amount of “summer casual” yet is feminine, polished, and super lightweight! I also love their collared gauze short sleeve top!

Another great staple to pair with jean shorts for a simple but always flawless outfit is a white tank. They go perfectly together! (Tie a striped long-sleeve tee, sweatshirt, or sweater around your shoulders for an added layer like I did above!)

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As you can see, in conclusion, I just love a good denim and white outfit – effortlessly chic and so simple to style. You can never go wrong with this combo! Want more style inspo? Head right over here.