Dark blue jeans are a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Whether you’re going for a casual daytime look or want to make your denim feel more elevated for night, there are plenty of ways to style dark wash denim. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore different tops, shoes, and accessories to wear with dark blue jeans for women and men. Read on to learn how to maximize your favorite pair of jeans.
Dark blue denim is arguably the most versatile and timeless shade of jeans. Unlike faded light wash denim, deep indigo jeans have a polished, sophisticated look about them. A crisp dark wash jean in a classic cut looks sharp with everything from basic tees and sneakers to blazers and heels.
Yet many people get stuck in a fashion rut and wear their dark jeans the same way every time. The key is learning how to balance the smart look of dark denim with other pieces. For example, you can break up the sleekness with distressed or embellished details. Or you can choose casual, relaxed tops and footwear so the outfit doesn’t look overly dressy.
This guide will walk through the basics of styling dark wash jeans for both men and women. You’ll find tips on choosing the right jeans for your body type along with shirt, shoe, and accessory pairings. Follow the advice to develop your own signature style and make your favorite dark denim feel fresh again.
Choosing the Best Dark Blue Jeans for Your Body
The first step to styling any pair of jeans is making sure you’ve selected the most flattering ones for your shape. Dark jeans come in so many cuts, rises, and silhouettes that you can surely find options tailored just for you. Consider these points when shopping:
Straight or skinny leg: More slender frames look great in skinny jeans that elongate the legs. Curvier figures balance proportions better with a subtle bootcut or straight leg.
Mid or high rise: Mid and high rise jeans emphasize your waist rather than hips. Low rise jeans make legs appear longer.
Distressed details: Strategically placed distressed details or fading can draw the eye upwards and create length.
Dark indigo wash: The darkest washes make legs look sleeker and thinner. Medium indigo washes are more laidback.
Stretch denim: Jeans with 2% spandex move with your body and prevent sagging. Opt for performance stretch fabrics.
Once you find a style of dark jeans that tick all the boxes, stock up in multiples! Having more than one favorite pair makes it easier to mix up your looks. Next let’s get into the fun part—how to style them.
Tops to Wear With Dark Blue Jeans
Your top sets the tone for any outfit built on dark denim. Switching up your shirts transforms the same jeans for everything from girls’ night out to Sunday brunch. Consider these stylish options:
Bold Graphic Tees
Nothing breaks up a dark jean better than a vibrant graphic tee. Opt for cropped lengths or boxy oversized fits to balance proportions. Wear one half-tucked into your jeans. Graphic tees pair well with distressed jeans for an edgy weekend vibe.
| Graphic Tee Style | Good For |
|---|---|
| Band/music tees | Concerts, casual hangouts |
| Pop culture tees | Festivals, theme parties |
| Slogan/message tees | Activism events, protests |
| Printed pocket tees | Art galleries, museums |
Sophisticated Button-Ups
A crisp button-up shirt adds polish to deep indigo denim. Tuck shirt tails in neatly and roll sleeves to the elbows. Opt for luxe fabrics like silks or linens. Solid colors make the sharpest impression, but subtle patterns like checks or plaids also work.
| Button-Up Style | Good For |
|---|---|
| White oxford shirt | Job interviews, workwear |
| Chambray shirt | Date night dinner |
| Silk blouse | Cocktail parties, events |
| Flannel shirt | Cabin weekends, fall activities |
Cozy Knits and Sweaters
When temperatures cool down, pair your dark denim with cozy knitwear. Choose sweater styles like cowl necks, turtlenecks, cardigans and pullovers. Thicker knits in waffle or cable textures add visual interest. For casual looks, size up and wear knits oversized. The relaxed vibe balances structured dark jeans.
| Knitwear Style | Good For |
|---|---|
| Oversized sweater | Weekend brunch dates |
| Draped cowl neck | Holiday parties |
| Chunky cardigan | Game nights in |
| Lightweight turtleneck | Daytime outings |
Going-Out Tops
Take your dark jeans from day to night by swapping in sexy, glamorous tops. Choose silky camis, strappy tanks, cropped bustiers or fitted bodysuits to show some skin. Metallic or shimmery fabrics elevate after-dark style. Add a moto jacket on top too.
| Going-Out Top | Good For |
|---|---|
| Slinky camisole | Cocktails at a lounge |
| Off-the-shoulder top | Dancing at the club |
| Bustier or corset | Girls’ night out |
| Sheer mesh top | Music festivals |
Swap out your top, and the styling potential of your dark denim is endless. Use the guides above to start building versatile looks. Next let’s explore footwear pairings.
Shoes to Wear With Dark Jeans
Just as your top sets the tone above the waist, your choice of footwear shapes the vibe below. Dark jeans work with virtually every shoe style. Consider these winning combinations:
Sneakers for Casual Looks
Nothing beats clean sneakers for completing a casual jeans outfit. Choose classic silhouettes like Vans, Converse, Nike Air Force 1s, or Adidas for an effortlessly cool look. Distressed dark jeans with white sneakers is foolproof. Or opt for sleek leather high-tops to dress it up slightly.
| Sneaker Style | Good For |
|---|---|
| Low-top white sneakers | Daytime hangouts |
| Slip-on Vans | Coffee dates |
| Chunky high-tops | Urban exploring |
| Retro runners like Air Force 1s | Brunch with friends |
Boots for Rugged Vibes
Leather or suede boots toughen up sleek dark denim for instant street style cred. Choose biker, chelsea, or combat boots. Or go Western-inspired with cowboy boots. Boots with chunky heels or platforms balance tight dark jeans. Wear boots over or tucked into your jeans.
| Boot Style | Good For |
|---|---|
| Biker boots | Concerts, festivals |
| Chelsea boots | Art gallery openings |
| Cowboy boots | Outdoor events |
| Lug sole boots | Hiking, fall activities |
Heels for Night-Out Style
Switch out your daytime sneakers for strappy heels or wedges to transition dark jeans into sexy eveningwear. Go for neutral colors in croc-embossed or patent leather. Classic black and nude heels always work. Have fun with details like tassels, straps, or metallic finishes. Peep-toe and ankle-wrap styles pair perfectly with cropped jeans.
| Heel Style | Good For |
|---|---|
| Block heels | Dinners, birthdays |
| Single-sole stilettos | Cocktail parties, weddings |
| Platform wedges | Concerts, dancing |
| Ankle-wrap sandals | Rooftop bars, summer events |
Don’t be afraid to dress up your dark denim for date nights out. Add heels for instant elegance.
Accessories and Layers for Dark Jeans
Accessories and layers complete your head-to-toe dark jeans outfits. Fill your wardrobe with these essentials:
Moto jackets: Leather or faux leather moto jackets add edge over graphic tees and dresses. Opt for fitted silhouettes.
Utility jackets: Oversized utility jackets with lots of pockets create dimension over tight jeans. Choose olive green or black.
Cardigans: Lightweight cardigans add color and softness to casual looks. Drape them over your shoulders.
Kimono cover-ups: Flowy kimono layering pieces transition outfits from day to night elegantly. Try silk or chiffon fabrics.
Plaid flannels: Unbuttoned flannels layered over tanks ground jeans for a grunge-inspired style.
Scarves: Printed scarves wrapped at the neck or hips add a feminine touch and pop of color.
Statement belts: Wide belts—even chain styles—break up untucked tops and emphasize your waist.
Hats: Baseball caps, felt fedoras and sun hats finish off casual looks.
Jewelry: Add rings, pendant necklaces, hoops or stacked bracelets for accent details.
With the right mix of accessories, you can transform your dark jeans for any occasion and season.
Conclusion
Dark wash jeans have an undeniable, unmatched versatility. Choosing the right fit and rise for your body maximizes that potential. By styling your deep indigo denim with a variety of tops, shoes and accessories, you can take them into any setting and situation. Use this guide to build comfortable daytime outfits, chic night-out attire and everything in between. The next time you feel stuck in a fashion rut, revisit these tips to revive your favorite lived-in jeans. With a little creativity, you’ll rediscover why dark denim is the building block of so many iconic looks.
