How to Wear a Dress Shirt with Jeans

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

A well-fitting dress shirt can add a touch of class to your casual jeans for day or night. From casual nights out to more dressy events, there are a lot of ways to style a simple dress shirt and jeans to be fashion-forward. A good fit is key to looking chic—just remember to stay true to your style!

1

Pair darker dress shirts with white or light wash denim.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-15.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Wear black, navy, or gray dress shirts with white or light wash denim for a fun contrast. [1]
    • If your shirt is sheer, throw on a nude tank top for extra coverage.
    • Add a pop of color with some red pumps and a clutch. [2]
    • Or, keep it neutral with black dress shoes and a watch.
    2. Advertisement
2

Try lighter dress shirts with dark wash denim.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Throw on your lightest dress shirts and add a pair of dark wash jeans for a cool, suave look. [3]
    • You could also mix it up with a pair of black jeans.
    • Dark wash denim looks great with brown shoes and handbags.
3

Use a T-shirt to create a super casual outfit.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1a\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1a\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-4.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Throw on a solid-colored or graphic T-shirt, then layer your dress shirt on top without doing up the buttons. [4]
    • Choose a light-wash jean for a daytime-casual look and dark-wash distressed jeans for nighttime.
    • Roll up your sleeves just below the elbow to stay cool during the summer.
    2. Advertisement
4

Tuck your shirt in for a put-together look.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Instead, tuck your dress shirt into your jeans for a chic and sophisticated outfit. [5]
    • If a fully tucked shirt is a little much for you, try tucking just the front to define your waist.
    • If you’re rocking an oversized dress shirt, gather the excess fabric and knot it at the front to show off your figure.
5

Create casual looks with distressed jeans.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-1.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pick jeans that are ripped or distressed to look cool and casual every time. [6]
    • You can pair your look with sneakers or boots.
    • Try tucking in your dress shirt for the ultimate cool outfit.
    2. Advertisement
6

Layer a sweater over your shirt for more variety.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-6.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pull the collar of your shirt out on top of the sweater for a cute pop of color, then pair it with your favorite light or dark wash jeans. [7]
    • If you’d like an even brighter pop of color, throw a tie on underneath your sweater, too.
    • Pair your look with heels or dress shoes to look put-together.
7

Dress up with a blazer.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-12.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Throw on a fitted blazer before you hit the town for a cool yet sophisticated outfit, and pair it with dark wash jeans for a cohesive look. [8]
    • If you want to get really fancy with it, add a tie or a pair of suspenders too.
    • Finish off your look with a pair of dress shoes or high heels.
    2. Advertisement
8

Stay warm in a long overcoat.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ae\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ae\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-2.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Throw on an overcoat that hits about mid-thigh to look classy while bundling up. [9]
    • Try pairing a dark overcoat, like black or gray, with dark wash jeans.
    • Or, pair a light overcoat, like camel or tan, with light wash jeans.
    • Finish off your look with dark dress shoes or ankle boots.
9

Sport cutoffs with a dress shirt for a summery look.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c9\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c9\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-10.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Throw on a pair of jean shorts to stay cool and casual during the summer. [10]
    • Leave 2 or 3 buttons open at the top for an ultra-cool outfit.
    • Wear sandals during the day and heels for a night out.
    2. Advertisement
10

Make your outfit pop with simple accessories.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/aid11633650-v4-728px-Wear-a-Dress-Shirt-with-Jeans-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Stick to small watches, bracelets, necklaces, or studs to let your shirt and your jeans be the star of the show. [11]
    • If you’re feeling fancy, you could also throw on a pair of suspenders or a tie with your dress shirt.

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Which jeans are best for a dress shirt?
    Kathi Burns, CPO®
    Image Consultant
    Kathi Burns is a board certified Professional Organizer (CPO) and Founder of Organized and Energized!, her consulting business with a mission to empower people to master their environment and personal image by assisting them in taking control, making change and organizing their lives. Kathi has over 17 years of organizing experience and her work has been featured on Better Homes and Gardens, NBC News, Good Morning America, and Entrepreneur. She has a BS in Communication from Ohio University.
    Kathi Burns, CPO®
    Image Consultant
    Expert Answer
    It really depends on what you're trying to do in terms of the outfit. I'd say everyone should have a pair of dark-washed jeans in their wardrobe. They just go so far with today's styles and they work in a variety of different situations.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
  • Question
    What do jeans go with?
    Kathi Burns, CPO®
    Image Consultant
    Kathi Burns is a board certified Professional Organizer (CPO) and Founder of Organized and Energized!, her consulting business with a mission to empower people to master their environment and personal image by assisting them in taking control, making change and organizing their lives. Kathi has over 17 years of organizing experience and her work has been featured on Better Homes and Gardens, NBC News, Good Morning America, and Entrepreneur. She has a BS in Communication from Ohio University.
    Kathi Burns, CPO®
    Image Consultant
    Expert Answer
    Depending on the color, jeans can work with basically anything. I mean, you can throw on a T-shirt and flip flops, or high heels and a suit jacket. It really doesn't matter. It's all about what you're doing around the jeans.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Recognize a Fake Ralph Lauren
      10 Easy Ways to Get Free Clothes From Shein & Score Huge Discounts
      How to
      Dress Like Adam Sandler: Become a Style Icon in Minutes
      How to
      Spot a Fake Burberry Coat
      How to
      Wear Pants That Are Too Big
      How to
      Dress for 60 Degree Weather: 10 Stylish Outfits
      How to
      Spot Real vs Fake Christian Louboutin Shoes
      How to
      Win the Title of Miss World
      How to
      Be Miss Universe
      Yes, You Can Wear Brown Shoes with Black Pants, and Here’s How
      How to
      Wear Jean Chains
      What Does Ponte Pants Mean? Plus, 8 Stylish Outfit Ideas
      How to
      Wear Fishnets Elegantly
      How to
      Put Spurs on Boots
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vzNZ6zUx0k&feature=youtu.be&t=176
      2. ↑ Kathi Burns, CPO®. Fashion Stylist. Expert Interview. 31 December 2019.
      3. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/white-shirt-styling-ideas
      4. ↑ Kathi Burns, CPO®. Fashion Stylist. Expert Interview. 31 December 2019.
      5. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-cB3Cy7fLg&feature=youtu.be&t=178
      6. ↑ Kathi Burns, CPO®. Fashion Stylist. Expert Interview. 31 December 2019.
      7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-cB3Cy7fLg&feature=youtu.be&t=212
      8. ↑ https://corporette.com/10-things-to-know-about-wearing-button-down-shirts/
      9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPERruyNmRs&feature=youtu.be&t=207
      1. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/white-shirt-styling-ideas
      2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPERruyNmRs&feature=youtu.be&t=235

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 39,207 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement