The stylist's guide to summer denim

Professional stylist Natasha Jafari shows us how she styles denim for summer, using proportion, contrast and unexpected pairings to create looks that feel fresh, personal and pulled together. From mixing distressed denim with feminine details to finishing a relaxed look with a polished shoe, these are the styling ideas to elevate your summer denim rotation.

The new way to wear long shorts

Long denim shorts are all about balance. Nat pairs the relaxed shape of our Bermuda Shorts with pieces that bring something different to the look: a sharp blazer and heel, an oversized knit and ballet flat, or romantic eyelet and a minimal sandal.

STYLING TIP: Play with contrast. Pair relaxed denim with tailoring, feminine texture or a more polished shoe.

Let the denim set the proportions

When denim has a stronger shape, like a wide or curved leg, Nat keeps the rest of the outfit simple and pays attention to where each piece hits. A closer-fitting top defines the waist when wearing a pair like the Horseshoe Jean, while a sweater worn over the shoulders adds another layer without competing with the jean.

STYLING TIP: The more volume in the denim, the cleaner the styling can be up top.

Use layers with purpose

A layer doesn’t always have to be worn the traditional way. Nat ties a sweatshirt at the waist of our cream Knit Flex Wide Leg Pants, adding shape and breaking up the proportions of an otherwise simple tee-and-denim pairing. Elsewhere, a sweater draped over the shoulders brings color and another point of interest without competing with the jean. 

STYLING TIP: Use lightweight layers to change the proportions of an outfit, not just for warmth.

Mix your references

Some of the strongest looks bring together pieces that don’t immediately seem like they belong in the same outfit. Nat styles our Loose & Low Jeans with a fitted striped polo, a woven bag and minimal sandals, mixing preppy, polished references with relaxed, worn-in denim. The contrast is what makes it work: familiar pieces, styled in a way that feels fresh. 

STYLING TIP: Contrast worn-in denim with more polished pieces.

Finish the look

The final detail changes everything. Nat moves between heels, ballet flats, sneakers and minimal sandals to take denim in completely different directions, while a strong bag adds personality without overcomplicating the outfit.

Styling tip: Before adding another layer, try changing the shoe or bag. It can shift the entire look.