I am a denim expert, a denim addict even. I imagine if you cut me in half, like a stick of Blackpool Rock, there would be a vein of rigid blue denim running through me. As a personal stylist for a number of years, helping clients find that elusive pair of perfect denim was my number one skill and a mission I loved.
Nothing in your wardrobe will work harder than a good pair of jeans. Think about it… You need something to wear to coffee with a friend; jeans, trainers and a nice knit, tick, done. You need an outfit for a smart casual workplace; jeans, white tee, nice blazer, and kitten heel boots, done and more done. Stuck for a date night look - dare I say it, jeans and a nice top? Few other items in your wardrobe will ever be as flexible or as durable.
When it comes to denim, to understand it means you have to try it. I have probably tried on every brand of jeans from high street to high end and there are two important lessons I would impart.
IT’S A MINEFIELD
It’s not you, it's the sizing. Doesn’t matter what size you think you are, or what you're currently wearing, sizes vary from store to store and even within the same store. When jean style varies so often does the sizing, you will have to try them on to see how they feel. And don’t be afraid to size up or down, it’s not you, it's the jeans.
YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR
Lots of high street brands do great jeans, however as a daily denim wearer I can guarantee, you get what you pay for. The higher end jeans might come at a higher price point, but the quality of the denim will be noticeably better and longer lasting. In turn the cost per wear on for example one pair of Paige Jeans, will be far greater than something of a similar style in a lower quality denim. FACT.
2025 DENIM TRENDS
What I am loving is that there is such a variety of denim styles for 2025. Never before have I seen so many diverse silhouettes, shapes and embellishments that can really let you express your personal style. Thankfully the skinny revival was squashed before it started, but what else is there? These are my favourite denim trends for 2025 and how to wear them.
BARREL LEG
The barrel-leg fit has been around for a few years and is still going strong. Women love the looser fit round the derriere and that it adds a bit of a cool statement to your look. Wear with a slimmer fit knit or tee, trainers or even a kitten heel for a night out. This style looks great with a cropped jacket like a bomber or one with a nipped in waist.
TURNUPS
Huge for this year are jeans with a deep turnup. It’s such a fun summer look I think with a relaxed suede loafer or a sandal, but also something that would look great with a statement top and heel for a night out. I love the contrast of the relaxed denim and a sequin to make the look that little more intentional.
BRILLIANT WHITE
As far as I am concerned, white jeans are an all round style staple. They look as good in the winter with a black boot, black knit and blazer as they do in the summer, with a crisp striped shirt or tee. I often size up in lighter denim so it sits nicer and isn’t just as snug.
WITH A TWIST
Embellishment is everywhere! Jeans with a little something special can really lift an everyday look or a night out look. These pearl detailed Essential Antwerp jeans will look so elevated with a beautiful blue silk shirt or even dressed down with a trainer.
DARK WASH
Dark washed denim was huge last year and I am glad to say it will continue to be in 2025. Personally I love denim on denim, especially with indigo denim. But colour blocking your look with a navy cashmere is also a nice elevated way to wear your dark wash denim.
Whatever you’re denim go to, this is definitely the year to experiment with new styles and shapes, push yourself out of your comfort zone. Who knows you may love it!
