Men’s Fashion Basics – Part 61 – Coloured Denim

A Different Denim

So the last couple of articles have really been focusing on expanding on the tailored elements of your wardrobe. But what about your casual pieces, surely they could do with some attention too? Well, you’re not wrong, they certainly do and what better place to start than where most guys have the most pain – jeans.

Now I’m presuming by now that you own at least two pairs of denim jeans; one in a classic indigo colour and another in a lighter blue for the more relaxed days in your schedule. I’m also going to take it as a given that you’ve nailed the fit as well. You know what cut suits your frame and whether or not to go for that much desired and pushed low rise (which, incidentally, doesn’t look good on the majority of males out there). If not, then I suggest you go back and have a look through previous articles that other writers and I have covered so far.

If you do know all these things, then first of all, congratulations! You have two pairs of jeans that are classic and will serve you well for nearly all occasions. So how can we start expanding your options in the denim department? What sort of denim should you be looking at? Well, allow me to give you some suggestions…

White Denim

I know, I know, I’m sure there’s plenty of you shocked at this suggestion. White jeans? Even in the winter? To which I reply, yes! And especially so in the winter. Due to their neutral hue they are easy to match with pretty much every colour under the sun. They also manage to be both dressy and rugged at the same time, meaning they are the perfect item to add to your wardrobe regardless of the season.

They look great when paired casually with a simple striped t-shirt and boat shoes, or smartened up with a pink shirt and navy blazer. They also allow for a bit of experimentation in the shoe department, so feel free to break out those navy suede bucks or olive green brogues. To keep the crispness of the jeans avoid wearing a belt with them and if you’re ever in doubt about what to pair with white denim, reach for black and you can’t fail.

Check out the look book here:

Grey Denim

With winter now well and truly upon us, grey jeans would be the ideal purchase for something outside of blue but still practical for the colder weather. Some would argue that black jeans are the better choice but I beg to differ. Although they may seem better for those drab December days, they lack the depth and versatility of other colours.

By wearing black jeans you eliminate the use of colours up top that are similar in tone – such as navy or purple – because they cause a black hole effect, and also leave yourself unable to wear any of your brown shoes without it looking garish. Under the right light and paired with the right pieces, a pair of indigo jeans can appear as black but infinitely richer than its actual counterpart.

Grey jeans on the other hand are the perfect piece for filling in that area between your new winter jacket – be it denim, leather or cotton – and your brand new winter boots. They work just as well when spring comes along, looking great when paired with rich greens and blues.

Check out the look book here:

Coloured Denim

Finally, why not just add some colour into your rotation? I’m sure some of you were all over the coloured chinos trend this summer so why not move this look into winter as well? However, this time keep things warm and rugged with jeans instead. Just remember to bear in mind what colours you have in your wardrobe before settling on a colour and if you need help when it comes to colour, why not read up on the articles that are already on FashionBeans:

• An Introduction To Colour
• Mixing With Monochromes
• Combining Colours
• Common Fashion Mistakes: Too Much Colour

Check out the look book here:

So that’s all for this week guys. What are your thoughts on the different denim colour available? Will you be investing in any of the pieces or will you be sticking to your trusty blues? And if so, why?

Until next week,
Matt Allinson