I’m not afraid to admit that until recently I was a card-carrying dress devotee. After all, shopping for jeans can be one of those tasks that needs time and patience, and after relying on the same pairs from Topshop over a decade ago, nothing seemed to feel the like right fit since. That is, until, I found the ones. An upcycled, two tone pair of E.L.V. denim jeans, tailored to my body and in a ultra flattering cut that changed my entire perspective on denim and gave me a hankering for more. And, as it turns out, jeans shopping doesn’t have to be laborious, and the right pair can do a whole lot for your wardrobe. But after developing an appreciation for all things denim, I’ve been looking for new ways to style the classic trouser that dont feel too “samey”.
As the seasons change and comfortable jeans are back in our daily rotation, I turned to street style to find out how fashionable women are wearing denim now, and no one does it quite like the Italians. Jeans might not be the first thing you think of when you imagine an Italian women’s wardrobe, but bellieve me, in amongst the sharp tailoring, mini skirts, and head-turning accessories, they own just as many pairs as we do, they just style them differently. Don’t believe me? Think Anna Della Russo’s embellished collaboration with 7 For All Mankind. Or, the return of Diesel—the premium Italian denim brand that took over Milan Fashion Week with its AW ’23 show. Sure, we love denim for its casual ease, but the Italians know all too well that there are many ways to dress up the simple jean.
Typically, you’re most likely to find an Italian in form-fitting cuts that pair well with heels, but this season there are wide-legs, different washes, and unexpected pairings a-plenty, a celebration of the variety and playfulness we’ve come to expect from Milanese style. So, whether you’re tall, petite, prefer skinny or loose-leg, or are just looking for “the ones” to change your wardrobe for the better, keep scrolling. Here are five ways Italians wear jeans that are well worth replicating, and the best jeans to get the look.
Style Notes: Everyone owns a pair of black trousers, and in the same vein, there’s nothing that dark denim can’t do. It’s smart and casual, polished and effortless, and just by adding a long coat and a patent shoe, you’ve got an ultra chic look that shows you mean business.
The fit is just so cool.
The higher the waistband, the longer the legs appear.
I’m ready to copy this entire look.
Supersoft means comfortable wear, so you don’t have to worry about breathing in to zip them up.
This arched, barrel leg is about to be the next big denim trend.
Style Notes: That’s right, double denim has reached fashionble new heights, and Italians even have a knack for triple denim. Just to get you started, try pairing denim shirts and jackets with drastically clashing washes to create a look that stands out from the crowd. Just add a pointy heel for a little extra luxe.
The perfect indigo blue wash.
Cropped jeans are my go-to in boots season.
A classic style you’ll wear for years to come.
Boden jeans are some of the easiest and comfiest on the market.
Citizens of Humanity are specialists in denim construction, so this shape will work wonders for any body.
Style Notes: It might not be a brand new tip, but if it ain’t broke, why fix it? Casual jeans and formal tailoring are the very definition of business/casual, and they tick boxes for just about every occasion. Work? Check. Dinner? Check. Weekend errands? Check. This foolproof combination works on every level, but especially for the colder seasonal shift.
Such a premium quality blazer.
I love this mid-grey blue colour.
If you’re in need of perfectly tailored shirt, start at With Nothing Underneath.
The slightly retro feel will look so good with oversized shirts and jackets.
You’re going to need a smart coat to dress up your denim.
Style Notes: You know what they say, and bigger often does mean better, but especially in the way of jeans. Italians have also been caught up in the baggy jeans trend, but unlike the low slung styles favoured by Brits and Amercians, a high-waisted, flared leg reins supreme. Good news for those of us who weren’t so keen on revisiting the Noughties trend.
Effortlessly chic.
Cream and ecru denim always feels more luxe than white.
We predict another bestseller from the Frankie Shop.
Ultra-high, ultra-wide.
Style Notes: It just wouldn’t be Milanese street style without the extra detailing that turns simple outfits into a statement. Whether its raw hems, bleaching, embellishment, extra pockets, zips or bows, jeans that are out of the ordinary score the most points. Wear them for evening with a blazer and heels, or keep them casual with a white tee and flats. However you style them, keep the rest of your look simple to let the jeans do the talking.
Just a subtle hint of sparkle.
So Instagrammable.
E.L.V. are masters of repurposing old denim into great new pairs.
