One of 2025's biggest fashion trends has us going back to basics — and seeing double. From A-list stars to suburban sidewalks, denim-on-denim is poised to take over this year, giving us plenty of outfit inspiration to make our old blue jeans feel fun and new again.
In theory, wearing double denim should be a relatively straightforward outfit formula. After all, jeans are a neutral, right? But with a plethora of washes, silhouettes and embellishments to consider, putting head-to-toe denim into practice can feel a little daunting.
To demystify the denim trend, we enlisted the help of a couple of trusted trend forecasters and stylists to answer our burning questions and share their expert tips and tricks for rocking denim-on-denim. Plus, we curated the best denim pieces as recommended by experts and editors, from one-and-done denim overalls to on-trend jorts and jean jackets.
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What is the denim-on-denim trend?
"Denim-on-denim," "Canadian tuxedo" or "double denim" — you might know the look by many names. Wardrobe stylist and shopping expert Vanessa Powell defines it as "the art of pairing multiple denim pieces together in a single outfit."
"Think a jean jacket with jeans, or a denim vest layered over a denim skirt,” she says. “The trend comes in many forms, from matching indigo sets to artfully clashing washes.”
How to style denim-on-denim
If you're new to the combination, trend forecaster Kendall Becker recommends simplifying things for yourself by opting for the same wash of denim. "This will make your look feel more complete and like an intentional pairing," Becker states.
Powell adds that another expert-approved way to nail an all-denim outfit is to vary your silhouettes. "If you’re wearing wide-leg jeans, try a cropped or tucked-in denim shirt," she suggests.
Once you've got the denim elements down, Powell says to consider other textures and fabrics you could add to your look to balance out all the jean. "I love to break up the denim with layering. Whether it’s a plain white tee or tank under a button-down or a belt to interrupt the waistband, dimension is key," Powell says. "Finish with accessories in leather or suede for warmth and texture."
Best denim-on-denim pieces, according to experts
Extra-relaxed denim bottoms: Gap Low Rise Extra Baggy Jeans
- Extra relaxed, wide leg
- No stretch
Sizes: 24 — 35 (regular, tall and petite sizes available) | Washes: 1
You heard it here: Gap is back, per our editors and experts.
“These jeans are basically relaxed enough to feel like sweatpants,” Becker says. “They’re perfect for a casual day exploring the city in sneakers.”
Denim skort: Princess Polly Gazelle Denim Skort
- Built-in shorts
- Some reviewers note waist gaps
Sizes: 0 — 12 | Washes: 3
With summer around the corner, consider opting for a higher-hemmed denim bottom that combines the fashionable flair of a denim skirt with the comfort of shorts.
“I’m a sucker for a skort,” Becker admits. “Comfort plus style? Count me in.”
Cropped denim jacket: Superdown Kathy Cut Off Jacket
- Button-closure pockets
- Cropped, frayed cut-off hem
Sizes: XXS — XL | Washes: 2
A cropped jacket might be just what your spring wardrobe needs for chillier nights.
“This jacket pairs perfectly back to jeans or with an all-black outfit for a night out,” says Becker.
One-and-done denim overalls: Cotton On Denim Overall
- Adjustable straps
- Loose fit
- Rigid denim
Sizes: 0 — 20 | Washes: 2
According to Powell, overalls are the ultimate one-and-done denim statement.
“Channel your inner child,” encourages Powell. “Pair with a plain white tank or tee underneath for that effortless Americana vibe. Bonus: under $100.”
Barrel jeans: Abercrombie Mid Rise Barrel Jean
- Trendy color options
- Rigid denim
Sizes: 24 — 34 (short, regular and long sizes available) | Washes: 8
"If you’re not shopping the Abercrombie denim renaissance, you’re missing out," Powell says. "These are comfy, flattering and budget-friendly. When styling barrel jeans, balance out the volume with something fitted on top — a tucked tee or cropped jacket works perfectly."
Denim shirt: Wrangler x Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott Denim Shirt
- Authentic Western back yoke
- Pearly snap front closure
- Ineligible for discounts
Sizes: S — XXL | Washes: 1
“An easy way to nail the denim-on-denim look: tuck a classic long-sleeve denim shirt into jeans,” Powell suggests. “Layer a striped or white tee underneath and add a brown belt to break it up.”
One-and-done denim dress: Aritzia The Shift Denim Dress
- Hint of stretch adds comfort
- Back pockets
- May need help to zip the back
Sizes: 2XS — XL | Washes: 2
“This denim dress can easily be styled for day or night,” Becker notes, adding that “the silhouette is a classic.”
Classic, timeless jeans: Madewell Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Crop Jean
- Slightly cropped leg
- Denim has "a touch of stretch"
Sizes: 23 — 33 (standard, plus, petite and tall sizes available) | Washes: 2
"Madewell’s perfect vintage jeans are a closet staple," says Powell. "I recommend them in a range of washes because they strike the perfect balance between a skinny and a slouchy fit — flattering, easy, and universally approved across generations."
Denim vest: Dissh Olly Indigo Denim Vest
- Functional front welt pockets
- Flattering back waist tie
- Wash before first wear
Sizes: 2 — 12 | Washes: 1
"This high-neck, curved silhouette feels super current," says Powell. "Pair with the matching pants for a full denim 'suit,' or mix it up with a flowy linen pant or midi skirt for contrast."
"Holy grail" jeans: Reformation Cary Low Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans
- Many color options
- Shape retains through wear
- Zero stretch
Sizes: 23 — 34 | Washes: 10
"These jeans are my holy grail," Becker raves. "They’re just slouchy enough without losing their shape."
Best denim-on-denim pieces, according to editors
Straight jeans: Uniqlo Straight Jeans
- Stretchy
- Option to tailor length
Sizes: 22 — 32 | Washes: 3
"I love the washes of these jeans and have the dress from this collection that is sold out," says social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo. "I also have the jeans and love wearing them together for a full denim look."
Jorts: Abercrombie Mid-Rise Long Jorts
- Stretchy
- Fade-resistant
- Different opinions on length
Sizes: 24 — 34 | Washes: 1
"I love denim shorts and think dark wash ones are so chic, especially when they are longer and flare out," Shigo says. "I have already broken out this pair this spring and love them with tall boots."
Black denim: PacSun Casey Low Rise Baggy Jeans
- Dark tint, light front fading
- Relaxed fit throughout
- Long inseam length
Sizes: 22 — 34 | Washes: 1
If wearing blue denim-on-denim feels a bit out of your comfort zone, doubling up on denim in a black wash might feel more approachable. I've been reaching for this comfy 'Casey' low rise option from PacSun lately, which the brand shares is currently their bestselling jean silhouette.
Flared jeans: Gap High Rise '70s Flare Jeans
- "Broken-in denim" feel
- Varying opinions on style
Sizes: 24 — 35 (regular, tall and petite sizes available) | Washes: 11
"I am truly obsessed," senior social media editor Kate McCarthy gushes about these flare jeans. "I bought them in the fall and now own them in four different colors. They’re the first pair of jeans I’ve ever had that I can wear all day and not feel like I need to rip them off by the end of the day. They fit true to size without being stifling."
Loose-fitting denim dress: Petal + Pup Azen Mini Dress in Dark Denim
- Adjustable neck tie
- Functional pockets
- Comfortable, loose fit
- Unlined
- Hand wash recommended
Sizes: XS — XL | Washes: 1
Editor Amanda Fama recently added this one-and-done denim dress to her collection and is "obsessed." It has a loose fit that is sure to be breezy and comfy all summer long. "I definitely plan on layering a denim jacket over this in the spring," she says.
Denim jacket: Anthropologie The Weston Denim Boyfriend Jacket by Pilcro
- Multiple size ranges available
- 100% cotton
- Runs large
Sizes: XXS - 3X (standard, plus, petite and adaptive sizes available) | Washes: 4
"I’ve been on the hunt for a new denim jacket to replace my trusty old one for almost a year now, and I finally found the winner," shares senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil. "When I came across this one at Anthropologie I was pleasantly surprised by the under-$100 price tag. I recommend sizing down, which still offered me the oversized look that’s in style right now without looking boxy or unflattering. I also appreciate that it’s 100% cotton."
Boyfriend jeans: We The Free Deep Trance Dropped Boyfriend Jeans
- Soft fabric
- Wide leg, but not too slouchy
- Some washes having distressing
Sizes: 23 — 34 (multiple inseam lengths available) | Washes: 2
"Honestly, I've been bored of my current lineup of jeans and tried these on at Free People, not expecting to like them as much as I do," confesses associate editor Sierra Hoeger. "They're mid-rise, which equates to high-rise on me because of my petite frame and short height, and the length sits right at the ankle, which is new to me and I deeply appreciate not having to cuff my jeans! Plus, they're soft — which is a word I've never used to describe jeans before."
Linen-blend denim: Levi's Premium Baggy Dad Linen+ Denim Lightweight Women's Jeans
- Lightweight linen blend
- Customers say they run large
Sizes: 23 — 34 (multiple inseam lengths available) | Washes: 2
With warmer weather on the horizon, a lightweight option is smart to have on hand to get the look of denim without the heft. Shigo is adding this pair to her wardrobe, calling it "a great option for summer denim."
"You don't have to worry about sweating as it is breezy," Shigo notes.
Two-toned denim: Lee Low Slung Barrel Rider Jean
- Easy way to do denim-on-denim
- Has shanks for adjustable fit
- Mixed reviews on silhouette
Sizes: 24 — 35 | Washes: 2
A fool-proof way to rock denim-on-denim? Opt for a piece that does all the denim matchmaking for you, like these two-toned jeans that are a light wash in the front and back, with darker wash panels along the sides. Deals editor Rebecca Brown says she loves them.
High-rise denim: Everlane The Way-High Jean
- High cotton content
- Denim quality
- Run a size larger
Sizes: 23 — 35 (multiple inseam lengths available) | Washes: 5
“I’d always heard people rave about Everlane jeans but was honestly nervous they wouldn’t fit me,” says associate editor Kamari Stewart. “A few months ago, the brand offered me a pair of these to try out and once I got them on, I was hooked.”
“They have enough structure to be dressed up easily but also work with just jeans, sneakers and a hoodie. Standing at 5’10, it’s also pretty hard to find jeans that are long enough for me and these sit perfectly. These are a staple in my weekly wardrobe and I’ve definitely been converted to a fan.”
Matching set: Rag & Bone Miramar Terry Jaiden Jacket
- Denim look; sweatshirt feel
- Real buttons
- Hem may need ironing
Sizes: XXS - L | Washes: 1
Matching set: Rag & Bone Miramar Wide Leg Jeans
- Denim look; sweatpant feel
- Real hidden side pockets
- Faux belt loops
- Hem may need ironing
Sizes: XXS - XL | Washes: 3
Looks can be deceiving; as convincing as Rag & Bone's viral 'Miramar' line looks, this actually isn't real denim! It's a printed terry fabric that looks like jeans, but feels like sweatpants. I've worn the matching set everywhere — from the airport to the office — and it looks so polished, no one has ever guessed that it's not real denim!
Frequently asked questions
“You can mix and match washes for a more eclectic approach to the denim-on-denim trend, which may be more aligned with your personal style,” encourages Becker. “If so, have fun with it! That’s what fashion is all about.”
“Don’t be afraid to mix washes, but instead of aiming for an exact match, focus on the overall vibe,” proposes Powell. “Mixing light and dark can look intentional and effortless if you stick to the same style language. I also love grounding the look with a belt or a tee to create separation between pieces.”
Our experts say yes.
“Not only is it okay to wear denim-on-denim, but it’s a timeless styling cue that never fully fades from the zeitgeist,” Becker enthuses.
“To me, denim-on-denim will stand the test of time, as long as it’s done in a classic way... a chambray shirt tucked into vintage high-rise jeans, finished with a brown belt and great boots,” Powell muses. “The look works best when it feels intentional, clean, and confident.”
How we chose
The Shop TODAY team has covered the best denim extensively — and for this story, we enlisted the help of trend forecasters and stylists to share tips on how to wear denim-on-denim. Plus, we had experts and our own editors recommend the very best jeans, denim skirts, jorts, denim dresses, jean jackets and more to wear double denim.
Meet the experts
- Kendall Becker is a trend forecaster and writer. She’s advised international brands and retailers on their fashion and beauty direction and her expert insight has been utilized in numerous publications.
- Vanessa Powell is a fashion editor, wardrobe stylist and shopping expert with over a decade of experience working with major magazines and an ongoing roster of celebrity clients. She lives and works between New York and Los Angeles writing, styling and consulting on all things style and culture.
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