The denim set comes back every season, and for good reason: a matching jacket and pants make a complete outfit in two pieces, no thinking required. But the double-denim look has a bad reputation, and it's easy to fear the "uniform" effect. Good news: with two or three simple rules, the denim set becomes one of the most stylish outfits in your wardrobe. Here's how to wear it, whether you're a man or a woman.
Is double denim still in style?
Yes, more than ever. "Denim on denim" has become a streetwear classic: you own it, you wear it loose, and you coordinate it. The difference between a great denim set and a failed outfit? Intention. A set designed as one (same denim, same wash, cuts made to go together) will always look better than two random denim pieces thrown together.
Rule #1: same wash, or a bold contrast
The simplest way is to wear the same wash on top and bottom : raw with raw, washed with washed. That's the whole point of a set sold as a match: both pieces are cut from the same denim. If you mix two different denims, do it boldly: a light blue with a very dark raw denim, for example. What doesn't work is two blues that are almost identical but not quite: the eye spots the mistake.
Rule #2: play with volumes
A denim set instantly looks more modern when the proportions are considered. Two combinations that always work:
- Cropped jacket + wide jeans : the jacket stops at the waist, the pants fall loose to the floor. The silhouette is elongated: it's the most on-trend look right now.
- Straight jacket + straight jeans : more classic, more workwear, perfect for every day.
Avoid skinny jeans under a very loose jacket, though: the proportions clash.
Rule #3: break up the blue with a neutral piece
Between the jacket and the jeans, slip in a simple piece that lets the outfit breathe: a black or white oversize t-shirt, a tank top, a fine knit. For shoes, white or chunky sneakers for a streetwear feel, ankle boots or loafers for a dressier version.
How to wear a denim set for women
- Jacket zipped up, worn on its own : the cropped zip jacket is worn as a top, with the high-waisted wide jeans. Minimal and very fashion-forward.
- Open over a crop top : to define the waist and lighten the silhouette.
- With heels or ankle boots : the denim set goes easily from day to night.
That's the whole spirit of our women's denim set – cropped jacket & wide raw jeans : a dark raw denim, a loose cut and contrasting cuffs that define the piece.
How to wear a denim set for men
- The classic : washed denim set, white t-shirt, white sneakers. You can't go wrong.
- Streetwear version : graphic oversize t-shirt under the open jacket, a trouser chain and chunky sneakers.
- Understated version : a fine black knit under the jacket, for a dressier look.
Our men's washed blue denim set pairs a structured denim jacket with matching pants, with a vintage wash and a straight cut that's easy to wear every day.
Tip: wear the pieces separately too
A denim set is actually three outfits: the full set, the jacket alone over black pants, and the jeans alone with a t-shirt or a sweater. You get the most out of every piece. And if you'd rather start from the bottom, one strong pair of jeans is enough to build the look: washed oversize balloon jeans, high-waisted wide raw jeans or rhinestone jeans for the boldest.
The accessories that make the difference
On a double-denim look, one well-chosen accessory is enough. A trouser chain that catches the light on the denim, like the triple-strand TWIST chain or theANARCHY with its punk symbols ; bold-design sunglasses like BLACK SHIELD or SMOKE WAVE ; a small crossbody bag. No more: the denim already does the work. The full selection is here: trouser chains, sunglasses and bags.
Size and care
For a loose set, take your usual size : the width is already in the cut. For care, wash your jeans inside out, cold, and as rarely as possible, especially raw denim: that's what preserves its colour. And always wash the jacket and pants together, so they keep the same shade. Check your garment's label, each denim has its own care instructions.
Where to find a denim set in Paris?
At DIFFERENT, a streetwear concept store in Belleville, at 39 rue Ramponeau, Paris 20e (Belleville metro, lines 2 and 11). Tuesday to Sunday from 2 pm, you can try everything on in store. Prefer to order online? Find our women's denim set and our men's denim set, with free delivery to pick-up points in France. To go further: how to wear an oversize t-shirt.
