Dog days of denim: Cool ways to wear it without wearing jeans
Because who wants to wear pants in the summer?
While it's hard to part with your favourite pair of jeans, as soon as summer's sticky weather sets in, they quickly get relegated to the back of a drawer. Who can bear the thought of skinnies at the beach, when you could be lounging in linen? That doesn't mean that denim has to disappear altogether from your summer wardrobe. If fashion designers like Mugler and Peter Pilotto have their way, we'll be slipping the blues back into high rotation. The key is to keep it looking casual. Frayed edges, as seen on the hairband, strappy sandals and bucket hat, and clean, simple styles like the mini dress and sneakers (all seen below) hit that effortless note.
Denim has earned its place as a seasonless fashion trend. Here are 11 summer-approved ways to wear it.
While there's nothing like a sleek white sneaker in the summertime, why not try a fresh update in dark denim? This no-frills design from Italian label Superga will look just as great paired with shorts as it will with dresses.
Superga Denim Sneakers, $79, anthropologie.com
Like all things from the early aughts, the bucket hat is back. This one provides plenty of shade from the sun's rays with an extra wide brim, complete with frayed edges. Style it with something simple so you don't veer into fashion victim territory.
Eugenia Kim Jordana Denim Hat, $318.50, shopbop.com
From a distance, you might not even notice that these sunnies are skinned in dark denim. Using a process that took two years of research, each pair is carefully coated to achieve a unique look. Just like your favourite pair of jeans, they'll look better and better the more you wear them.
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Blue Denim Sunglasses, $200, brooksbrothers.com
Consider swapping your everyday bag for a hands-free backpack. This one from Diesel's collaboration with Italian accessories designer, Paula Cademartori, is made extra-special thanks to colourful leather fringe, bungee cord pulls and woven chain straps.
Diesel B-OOM Backpack, $510, ca.diesel.com
These sandals are the souped-up summer version of your classic double-strap Birkenstocks. They go the extra mile with a built-in platform and low-key silver hardware. It's a nod to denim without having to commit to the look.
Rag & Bone Evin Sandals, $360, rag-bone.com
Think of this dress as the summer equivalent to your most beloved blues. Free from whiskering, distressing and abrasion, it skims the body in all the right places. The cut-out detail in the back is especially pretty.
Alexa Chung Denim Mini Dress, $525, modaoperandi.com
If you're really missing your jeans, these statement earrings are your summer saviour. There's plenty of drama thanks to wee bows, gold buttons and long fringe. Plus, they're so large, they practically skim your shoulders.
Caroline Constas Denim Fringed Diamond Earrings, $375, modaoperandi.com
Look closely at each of the denim petals that adorn this little clutch and you'll feel as if you're carrying a piece of art. The delicate floral applique makes it an easy accessory for summer weddings or brunch with friends.
Ela Mini Milck Clutch in Floral Petals Denim, $395, elabyela.com
Control summertime's inevitable flyaways and frizz with a swept back style. The raw-edge gives it the toughness it needs to keep the girly bow in check.
Salvatore Ferragamo Denim Vara Bow Headband, $234, shopbop.com
Spotted on street style darling Giovanna Battaglia, Tanya Taylor's twist on the denim dress hits all the right notes. Voluminous sleeves, an abbreviated hem and a cinched waist are summer's answer to the Canadian tuxedo.
Tanya Taylor Cybil Dress, $450 and on sale for $180 in select sizes at tanyataylor.com
Breezy nights call for a denim jacket. Thrown over a sundress or a pair of shorts, this soft motorcycle style marries everything we love about our leather version (waist belt, exaggerated lapels, slick hardware) with our fave fabric.
Paige Sivan Jacket, $362.81, paige.com
Caitlan Moneta (@caitlanmoneta) is a Toronto-based fashion editor, writer and stylist. She's a firm believer that there's nothing a little retail therapy can't fix.