Denim jackets are a transitional piece that can't miss in your wardrobe. Still, they stand the test of time and are a reliable layer when the weather drops slightly and you need a lighter option. Aside from their continuous timeless aesthetic, denim jackets are a practical way of elevating any look.
They add warmth, texture and formality to most basic pieces. To get a better understanding, we talked to experts to find the right fit formula for this wardrobe staple.
With so many different iterations, styles and washes, you can't go wrong with the classic denim route and embrace the look that has been around for over 100 years.
Why are denim jackets a wardrobe staple?
There's simply something about the silhouette and the style that make denim jackets something we constantly reach for, says celebrity and personal stylist Basia Richard, adding that it's why almost everyone has one (or multiple!) in their closet.
"No matter what the trends are, it’s just something that we can wear no matter what," she adds.
The overall versatility of the jacket make them easy to grab in a pinch, even when looking to transform an outfit.
"It’s a very classic silhouette that we can really wear with sort of anything," Richard explains. "It goes with those clothes and looks that are a little bit dressier; that [denim] jacket is going to turn them into more casual looks."
If you don't own this wardrobe essential already — or if you're wanting to add more denim jackets to your collection — we found top-rated picks below that can easily become your year-round staples. Plus, style expert Olivia Perez, stopped by the 3rd Hour of TODAY to introduce us to the different styles of denim and how to incorporate them into our everyday wardrobe. Keep scrolling or use the links below to learn more.
What to look for | Finding the right fit | Editor-approved picks | How we chose | Meet our experts
What to look for when shopping for a denim jacket?
Richard notes that there are a few key factors shoppers should keep in mind when searching for the right denim jacket:
Function. "It really depends on the function and where you’re going to wear it," Richard says. Are you going to be dressing up a casual summer outfit? Or throwing it over your shoulder to layer over an airport outfit?
Style. Are you going for a more light-washed look? Or are you looking to darken the hues of your closet with a dark-washed jacket? Do you prefer oversized or fitted? What kind of collar, sleeves or silhouette are you looking for? These are all questions Richard recommends keeping in mind.
Body type and fit. Richard also suggests evaluating your body type and how a denim jacket might feel, fit and look. "[Keep] in mind the styles overall just to make sure we don’t blindly follow the trends. ... When you pick the jacket, [make sure] it’s actually going to fit your silhouette," she says. Richard adds that those with wider hips might opt for a shorter jacket that will help accentuate their silhouette. On the other hand, those who like "boyish" oversized tees might instead go for oversized jackets that will provide a similar style and structure.
Durability. Finally, while it's difficult to determine the quality of a jacket while online shopping or viewing it on the hanger in a store, Richard says that finding one that has longevity means you won't ruin it after a wash, nor will you have to buy a new one often.
How to find the right fit for denim jackets
Finding the right fit depends on personal preference. According to SVP of denim design at Madewell Mary Pierson, the perfect fit is not “too long, short or oversized.”
In terms of colors and washes, “I like to opt for a medium to light wash as it pairs well with a wide range of outfits. Then depending on current trends, you might also find oversized or cropped versions available. I recommend looking for ones with classic details like double-needle stitching, metal shank buttons, and flap front pockets,” adds Pierson.
Also, a classic fit "serves as a timeless staple, offering a balanced silhouette that’s neither too loose nor too tight."
If you prefer something more oversized, she recommends thinking about your look options. "Consider how you’d like to style it—whether you prefer a traditional, fitted look or are interested in experimenting with oversized or cropped styles to suit your style and latest trends," says Pierson.
Best denim jackets, according to editors
Tsher Oversized Vintage Washed Denim Jacket
- Very comfortable and stylish
- Only goes up to size XL
Fit: Oversized, relaxed | Length: At the hip | Pockets: 4 | Fabric weight: Lightweight | Sizes: S-XL | Care: Machine-wash with cold water
“I LOVE this jacket. It’s oversized and goes perfectly over all my spring/summer dresses. I would suggest sizing up for a more oversized look,” says associate editor Allie Wise.
Aside from its affordability, this is a jacket that is sturdy and will match with all your casual pieces.
American Eagle Drape Stretch Cropped Denim Jacket
- Has enough stretch
- Boxy cut
Fit: Drapey | Length: At the waist | Pockets: 2 | Fabric weight: Lightweight | Sizes: S-XL | Care: Machine-washable
Deputy editorial director, Alexandra Deabler wears this one and raves about the stretch of the denim
"I’ve had my cropped denim jacket from American Eagle for about a decade at this point. I love it. This is an updated version of mine. I like that it has stretch, since mine is rigid and sometimes it’s a little tight when trying to wear over a long-sleeve bulkier shirt. But I like the light wash — I think it goes with everything — and I like the crop, which is perfect with a dress, skirt or chinos," she says.
Levi’s Women’s Ex-Boyfriend Trucker Jacket
- Big inside pockets
- Perfect fit
- Not ideal to wear thick items
Fit: Relaxed (but size up) | Length: At the hip | Pockets: 6 | Fabric weight: Heavy | Sizes: XS-4X | Care: Machine-wash cold and dry inside out
This denim trucker style with over 1,700 verified five-star Amazon ratings is a versatile option that will pair well with just about anything in your closet.
SEO writer Jannely Espinal loves this classic design for its functional features. "It comes with inner and outer pockets plus I can style it with dresses, jeans and jumpsuits. I personalized mine with patches but I love how efficient this jacket is and I've had it already for four years. It hasn't disappointed," she says.
Wrangler Girlfriend Denim Jacket
- Can wear a hoodie underneath
- Not the most lightweight
Fit: Relaxed | Length: Below waist | Pockets: 4 | Fabric weight: Heavy | Sizes: XS-XXL | Care: Machine-wash
A classic fit is all you need to keep it chic and comfortable. Associate editor Kamari Stewart loves this one and she says, "I always get compliments on it. I got my normal size but it’s oversized enough that I can still wear a hoodie underneath. It has a little weight to it so in the spring, I wear it alone but I can also wear it in the fall."
Tommy Bahama Chambray O'lei Jacket
- Flexible fit
- Lightweight feel
- Can run short
Fit: Relaxed | Length: Below waist | Pockets: 4 | Fabric weight: Light | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Care: Machine-wash
"What I have noticed about a lot of denim jackets is how rigid they are and that’s why I love this one from Tommy Bahama," says editor Vivien Moon.
"It has stretch and softness to it while still holding its shape which I’ve noticed is hard to find. It never feels like you’re wearing a heavy denim jacket but it is still comfortable for cooler nights," she adds, While her denim jacket of choice is almost out of stock, the chambray iteration is not too dark or too light and a great transitional piece for cool weather.
How we chose
We selected the most popular styles based on the expert's recommendations and asked our editors for their tried-and-truth pieces. Also, we scoured through reviews and chose denim jackets based on sizing availability and shoppers' favorites.
Meet the experts
- Basia Richard is a freelance stylist who specializes in helping clients find professional clothing that fits their personal style and can be worn at the office. She has also styled multiple celebrities.
- Mary Pierson is the SVP of denim design at Madewell.
