Although denim is characteristically relaxed, it’s often the foundation for creative expression and has birthed some of the most iconic looks, from Princess Diana to Cindy Crawford in the ’90s.
I was a little too familiar with denim in the Noughties, wearing kick flares with body-con T-shirts at every given opportunity and lacquering on sticky lip gloss before Y2K became the modish phenomena it is now. I’ve explored other aesthetics over the years, but when I reached my 30s, my appreciation of denim came full circle. By now, we’re all probably well versed in the importance of basic items like jeans and vest tops, but it can be challenging to figure out where to start with the elevation of denim outfits, particularly if you’re after something a bit more statement making. Really, it’s the simplest equation, as the casual characteristic of denim will pair with almost any top-half style—whether it’s a voluminous blouse, a tailored shirt or even denim.