Can I Mix Different Shades of Denim?

I just bought a jean jacket and then realized that the jacket is a darker jean material than the jeans I want to wear it with. What do I do?


Unmatched denim is a totally hot look--relaxed, casual, and smart, with a great rock and roll flair. Sheryl Crow wears unmatched denim, and she looks amazing. You can, too. Two different colors of denim will look fine together in most cases--the one exception is that if it looks like you tried to match them and failed. For example, a dark denim jacket and very faded jeans will look great together.

Also, if the colors are close, but in the same color family, that works, too. Compare the colors in natural light and see if they appear to be in the same color family. If they do, wear them together, and with a smile. Who wants to look like they're wearing a denim suit?

One final caveat to this--if you're not comfortable with the way the pieces look together, then don't do it. Your discomfort will show in your face and your attitude, and that will keep the outfit from working.

I hope that helps.