How to wear double denim – this controversial look is back and better than ever
DOUBLE denim has been a controversial topic for as long as we can remember - but now, thanks to Balenciaga, Calvin Klein and Rihanna, this tricky trend has officially been cracked.
It's time push aside your prejudices because this daring combo can be worn at work, on the weekend, out clubbing and even on your next date.
To fully embrace this trend, you need to forget about all of the double denim fashion faux pas scarring your memory.
Like the infamous moment Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake walked the red carpet at the American Music Awards in 2001 - her in a corseted denim ball gown complete with crystal choker and him in a cowboy hat and deliciously noughties shades.
Double denim's rhinestone cowboy reputation has needed overriding (pun intended) for quite some time.
Like most things, we saw it on Rihanna first. Back in 2016 when she was partying in London with Justin Bieber, the singer was spotted in a frayed mini skirt and Balenciaga's swing jacket (adapted from Old Levi styles and specifically seamed to sit off the shoulder) naked but for her tattoos beneath.
Then, just two months ago, Margot Robbie was spotted out and about in the most covetable look of the season - Calvin Klein's Americana offering of denim from the depths of the Wild West, crafted by new Chief Creative Officer Raf Simons.
I Tonya star Robbie stayed true to the full look from the catwalk, wearing a dark denim shirt layered over a roll neck and tucked into straight jeans, all grounded with a pair of cowboy boots. Talk about on-trend.
Model Gigi Hadid has always been a fan of double denim, but more in a good American, girl-next-door way. In December, however, she started to switch things up and was spotted in this bleached two piece that nodded to Calvin Klein's iconic 1980 campaign with Brooke Shields.
There's no doubt that double denim can be done in so many different ways - see how we'll be styling it this season:
On Date Night
This outfit is great for a date because it oozes laid-back cool and sex appeal at the same time. Cover up with matching mom jeans and an oversized jacket - the dropped arms on Pull & Bear's version lets it slip delicately off your shoulders to showcase a peak of skin. Ground with a pair of striking scarlet boots a la Gigi.
To Work
Yes, we've found a way for you to wear denim to work. Just remember, dark hues are always the smartest. Opt for wide-leg jeans and jackets with a touch of tailoring - the unconventional silhouette of this outfit puts denim in a totally different realm.
On a Night Out
This one you can pull out all the stops for. Metallic accents really jazz up washed denim - we're talking in thigh-high boots and a chainmail choker. Unbutton the jacket to let it slip off the shoulders but wear a strapless top underneath to create the illusion of bare skin...unless you dare to go braless like Riri.
On the Weekend
Okay so it's not quite double denim, but it has the same effect. A boiler suit is a smart weekend buy because it looks directional whilst being unbelievably comfortable (like wearing a giant baby grow). You can kick it in trainers or just add heeled boots for a healthy dose of sass.
More from Fashion
The secret to denim surviving is so simple, according to Victoria Beckham - don't wash it!
Find out how to care for your jeans here.
Want to master the staple wardrobe? If this trend is a little OTT for you, learn how to make the best of basics like a slip dress or the trench coat.