The smart-casual look is a tricky one to perfect, especially when it comes to a shirt and jeans combo.

From the right style of jeans to the ideal length of shirt, there’s a lot to consider and plenty that can go wrong.

If you’re wondering how to wear a shirt with jeans, here are a few simple rules to help you get it right, every time!

How to Wear a Shirt with Jeans: A Step-by-Step Guide

A button-up formal shirt paired with denim jeans is among the most popular smart-casual outfits any man (or woman) can wear. It’s a relaxed look for parties and celebrations or when the occasion demands something less dressy than a classic men’s suit.

Done well, few ensembles are more appealing than a crisp white shirt with jeans, whether tucked in or hanging loose, depending on your preference.

You’re about to discover the sartorial art of how to wear a shirt with jeans and learn the secrets behind this classic look.

1. Choose the Right Type of Jeans

Men’s jeans come in a myriad of shapes, colours and designs. But not all styles of jeans work well with a formal shirt, so it’s important to get this part right from the outset.

For instance, baggy, ripped jeans with a distressed wash just won’t work when paired with a formal shirt. It blurs the lines between smart and ultra-casual and ruins the overall look.

Here are your options:

·       Straight/regular cut jeans: Create a classic silhouette that has stood the test of time. They occupy that perfect space between skinny and baggy and allow you to showcase your favourite shirt in all its glory.

·       Skinny/stretch jeans: Great with a t-shirt or polo shirt, but tend to look skintight when worn with a loose, untucked shirt.

·       Baggy/loose-fitting jeans: Best reserved for skateboard parks and rock concerts, as they can look oversized and mismatched alongside a formal shirt.

·       Ripped jeans: An absolute no-no as a partner to a formal shirt. The whole point of pairing jeans with a shirt is to bridge the gap between formal and informal. Ripped jeans are just too casual and ruin the formality of a button-up shirt.

If you’re wondering how to wear a shirt with jeans, the basic rule is to avoid mixing urban wear with classic tailoring. Instead, play it cool and go for plain jeans in a straight fit with no rips or quirky features. You’re looking for jeans that create a classic silhouette to complement your shirt and nothing else.

2. Select the Ideal Colour Jeans

When it comes to picking a jeans colour, the best advice is to keep it simple and stick with the foundational shades. That’s why traditional options like dark-coloured navy jeans are the ideal match for formal shirts.

Similarly, avoid whitewashed jeans or those with distorted designs – they’ll only ruin the rest of your outfit. Instead, opt for solid, neutral jeans in a classic, regular fit that’s easy to integrate with your overall look.

Our tips for choosing the best jeans colour:

·       Blue jeans: Blue is the ultimate versatile colour of jeans that pair effortlessly with shirts of nearly any colour and style.

·       Dark jeans: Darker shades offer a polished look with a sophisticated edge that complements both casual and formal shirts.

·       Black jeans: Provide a sleek, modern foundation that pairs well with a wide range of shirt colours and designs to create a smart image.

·       White jeans: Create a fresh, clean look that contrasts well with dark or patterned shirts to create a crisp, put-together look.

·       Coloured jeans: Whether steel jeans or grey jeans, these add personality and flair to an outfit and perfectly match neutral shirts for a balanced look.

The golden rule of jeans colours is not to overdo it. While there’s nothing wrong with opting for bolder shades, the safe bet is to go with traditional tones that can be dressed up or down depending on your choice of shirt.

3. Pick the Best Shirt Colour

Things get a little easier when choosing the best shirt colour to match your jeans. That’s because most shades and tones work well with jeans when paired correctly.

As is often the case, it’s better to stick to wardrobe staples rather than experiment with vivid colours, especially when attending events that have an air of formality.

That means:

·       White shirts: Pair perfectly with most types of jeans thanks to their clear, neutral tone which complements any denim shade for a timeless look.

·       Pale blue shirts: Their soft hue adds a touch of colour without being overpowering, providing a clean, classic contract with denim.

·       Pink shirts: Can provide a welcome pop of colour to match a variety of denim shades.

·       Patterned/printed shirts: Allow you to showcase your personality through visual designs and patterns that balance well with neutral jeans.

To summarise, classic tones such as white and light blue shirts seamlessly integrate with a variety of jeans styles. If you’re inclined to make bolder choices with patterned or printed shirts such as checks or stripes, ensure you wear them with neutral jeans like navy or black.

4. Wear the Perfect Shirt Style and Fit

In terms of jeans and shirt combinations, fit is everything. A well-fitted shirt elevates your appearance and ensures you look the part.

The popularity of tapered-fit shirts like the classic Italian shirt aligns with the torso and provides enough stretch to keep you comfortable all day.

Alternatively, slim-fit shirts are ideal for toned gym bods and slender silhouettes. These options are often made from stretch cotton that’s both soft and breathable, allowing full freedom of movement.

Some other shirt styles that go well with jeans include:

·       Short-sleeve shirts: An ideal partner for jeans, especially in warmer months, offering a relaxed, laid-back vibe.

·       Thicker overshirts: Add structure and warmth in cooler climates while maintaining a rugged, effortlessly stylish look.

That said, there are some exceptions that should be avoided when pairing with jeans. These include:

Shirts with these features are specifically designed to be worn with a classic tuxedo or to the most formal occasions, like black-tie events. Wear these with a pair of jeans and you’ll be completely out of place.

How to Wear a Shirt with Jeans: Tucked or Untucked?

To tuck or untuck, that is the question? For us, your options should align with the purpose and formality of your outfit.

For instance, if you’re popping to the office, it’s best to tuck your shirt into your jeans to maintain a degree of professionalism, while pairing with some men’s formal shoes.

However, if you’re lounging around at the weekend or taking the family out, you’ll look more comfortable in an untucked shirt with rolled-up sleeves and a pair of smart trainers or stylish leather boots.

Remember, jeans are typically designed for comfort and a casual vibe. Leaving your shirt untucked and hanging loose keeps your outfit fresh, relaxed, and modern. Not only that, but you’ll avoid that overly polished, stiff appearance of someone who doesn’t know how to dress.

So, while we’re all for versatility and freedom of expression, save the tucked shirt for formal wear, chinos and stricter dress codes.

Can You Wear a Jacket with Jeans and a Shirt?

Absolutely! A men’s blazer or sports jacket will take the formality up a notch when worn with jeans and a button-up shirt without having to put on a suit.

Wearing a sports jacket or blazer is a great option for semi-formal events such as dinner parties, family gatherings or work functions. And you can add another element of sophistication by adding a statement pocket square and other key accessories.

Still Wondering How to Wear a Shirt with Jeans?

We’ve provided you with the basic concepts and a few golden rules to get you started. Why not experiment with some jeans and shirt combinations until you find something you like? Alternatively, contact us today or book an appointment with one of our stylists and create the perfect look.