Denim is a material you can wear any time of year, but there's something about it that just looks so good in the summer. Of course, it's not as breathable as, say, linen bottoms, but it's an undeniable staple that looks fab with a white top in these warmer months. That's just one 'fit that trends every summer, but below I've rounded up a bunch more summer denim trends to give you some ideas on how to style your jeans, jorts, cutoffs, and everything in between.
Whether you're trying to go for a standout bottom and top combo, you're trying to make it allll about the top, or you're letting your shorts speak for themselves, there's no shortage of ways to play around with your look this season.
Here, I rounded up 11 trends that have been popping up on my IG feed... though some of these pop up every summer, which proves that they've moved past the trend cycle and cemented themselves as certified classics. From tried-and-true straight-leg and light-wash styles to the ever-divisive jorts and low-rise designs, I guarantee there's a trend or two here you can vibe with. Keep scrolling below for all the inspo.
White tank and light-wash jeans
A white tank and lighter jeans will never do you wrong in the hot temps. Bonus points if your pants are high rise and extra baggy in the legs to catch the breeze.
Artfish Sleeveless Full Length Ribbed Fitted Racerback
Levi's 501 '90s Ankle Jeans
NianEr Microfiber Leather Memory Foam Support H Sandals
Jeans with a detailed white top
Super detailed white tops that have a vintage look to them really stand out against darker denim. Features like lace trim and ties make it dainty, and you can contrast it with more edgy accessories like a baseball cap and chunky jewelry.
American Eagle Short-Sleeve Ruffle Collar Eyelet Crop Top
Macarena Collection Leather Huarache Sandals
Straight-leg jeans with loafers
Jeans and loafers are always a great pair, especially when the jeans are a great-fitting straight-leg style. For summer nights that get a bit chilly, throw them on with a knit or layer a tank under a sweater like Emma Chamberlain here.
Levi's 501® '90s Straight Leg Ankle Jeans
GH Bass Whitney Leather Loafer
Medium-wash jeans with flats
A structured top with medium-wash jeans and pretty flats is a surefire way to turn heads this summer. If you're looking for a summer date-night look that seems like you tried without being too dressed up, this is a definite win.
H&M Puff-Sleeved Poplin Blouse
Abercrombie High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean
Seychelles Gatsby Mary Jane Pump
Tube tops and shorts
Channel a Y2K-inspired ensemble with a cropped tube top and shorts. You can pare it down with minimal accessories or pile on beaded jewelry for that "just-got-back-from-summer-camp" kind of look.
J.Crew Bubble-Knit Tube Top
Reformation Raye Mid Rise 6” Relaxed Jean Shorts
B-Low the Belt Baby Bell Bottom Smooth Belt
Baggy dad jorts
How low can you go? Though not everyone is into these dad-like jorts, there's no doubt that they're eye-catching. The exaggerated silhouette looks best with a more fitted top and fun accessories.
Surplus Rib Scoop Neck Tank
BDG Mega Rise Dad Short
Coco and Breezy Nelson 101
Loose jeans with lightweight knits
If you're near the ocean this summer, it can be quite breezy. Looser jeans paired with lightweight knits in a summery hue will keep you a tad warmer while still looking v cool.
Reformation Clara Cardigan
Zara Mid-Rise Baggy Ripped Jeans
Brother Vellies Greg Shoe in Cow
Loose jeans and slim sneakers
The sneakers this year have gotten only gotten slimmer. Low-profile shoes like the Adidas Taekwondos and Puma Speedcats have been making waves and are only gaining popularity this summer. Wear yours with loose-fitting jeans to contrast the shapes and make your shoes the focal point.
Lioness North Light Tee
Just Black Denim The Low Slung Vintage Straight
Jeffrey Campbell Aleta Sneakers
Denim on denim
Okay, yes a long-sleeve shirt might seem absurd in summer temperatures, but there are chambray styles that have a thinner fabric and you can replicate this look with a short-sleeve or sleeveless denim top. For a night out on the town when the air cools down, this is a statement look with a pair of comfy black heels.
Good American Soft Tech Good Curve High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
Stand Oil Oblong Bag / Black
Low-rise jeans with a sporty top
Go sports! Jersey-inspired tops have been gaining steam and they look even better with low-rise jeans to counterbalance the oversized top. Add a belly chain and/or wide belt to give it a summer spin.
Abrand Low Rise Straight Jean
Coach Classic Buckle Belt With Hip Detail
Shorts with a bikini
Why not wear your bikini as a top? Whether you're heading to the beach or not, layering a bikini under shorts is a combo I've seen time and time again these past couple of months. Add a floral hair clip and a straw bag to keep the effortless vacation vibes going.
Suvimuga Two Piece Swimsuit
Reformation Raye Mid Rise 6” Relaxed Jean Shorts
Sisiaipu 6 Pack Large Claw Clips
I'm Cosmopolitan's Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best. I originally moved to New York City to audition for RENT, only to find out that the play closed 10 years ago.
