Denim is one of the rare wardrobe constants that never goes out of style. And whether worn in a light wash or dark indigo blue, its versatility positions it as a neutral—one that you can wear with anything and everything and never question if it “actually goes.” But despite its mainstay status, the category has a unique way of reinventing itself, with evolving proportions, silhouettes, and styling formulas that somehow make it feel consistently innovative.
This season, that reinvention feels especially pronounced. Denim is loosening up—literally and figuratively—and in a way that feels totally wearable for summer. Wide-leg and baggy styles have kicked ultra-slim fits to the curb (thank god we’re delaying the skinny jean revival), Bermuda jorts have replaced mini cutoffs, and bootcut designs have quietly reentered the chat with a more modern, elongated take. The runway’s utility trend is going strong—and makes getting dressed in the morning so much easier—with matching sets. But don’t assume you have to commit to a full denim-on-denim look to embrace the fabric’s full potential—throwing on a denim bag or pair of shoes is a great low-commitment way to work the fabric into your rotation.
The real secret to an effortlessly cool summer denim look beyond just great investment pieces? Balance. Just ask DJ duo Alici Sol and Jade Croo, who are the epitome of low-key confidence. “I honestly think a denim jacket can cool you down in the heat. A cute little skirt with a jean jacket just hits, and it’s such an easy outfit,” Alici tells Cosmo. “Whatever you’re wearing that isn’t denim, make it tiny,” Jade chimes in.
Need a little help putting it all together? We’re breaking down the season’s hottest (I don’t mean temperature-wise, promise) denim styles from Diesel and exactly how to wear them.
Baggy Denim
While denim had a momentary slim-fit phase earlier this year—we even dipped into skinny jean territory for a blip [shudders]—trends are shifting back toward baggier, wide-leg styles. And hallelujah for that because they’re so much more wearable (read: less sweat-inducing) for summer. The category is leaning into its most unrestrictive phase yet, with silhouettes that cut wide through the leg whether you opt for a low-rise baggy look or barrel-leg denim.
Take this breezy ’80s-inspired pair that’s perfectly fitted through the hips and curves down the sides in an exaggerated yet intentional way. The oversized shape looks effortless (and feels appropriately airy) with something more fitted on top, like a tiny tank or a body-skimming strapless style. Toss on a pair of ballet flats or flip-flop kitten heels to keep it elevated but easy.
Denim Accessories
By far the coolest (and coolest) way to wear denim this season? Slung across your shoulder. The timeless fabric is making its totally nostalgic return to the accessories department, with bags that channel the same attitude as your favorite pair of jeans do. Think: slouchy, soft structure and tactile finishes that give even the most been-there-done-that styles a fresh take.
Diesel’s D-Line Hobo Bag is the perfect example. It has that relaxed, lived-in look that feels reminiscent of a once-in-a-lifetime thrift store gem. And while you can always go full denim-on-denim to make your statement, an accessory is an easy way to nod to the trend without wearing jeans in a heat wave.
Utility Denim
The runway’s spring/summer 2026 utility trend is bleeding into our everyday wardrobe by way of cargo-style jeans and skirts, denim jumpsuits, and even chore jackets if you’re taking Alici’s summer-layering advice. It’s all about the construction here: visible seaming, purposeful pocket placement, and functional silhouettes—but with a softened spin for summer.
One outfit formula that checks Jade’s boxes for summer and concert season? Denim-on-denim, which is so achievable with the D-Partt jeans and matching top combo. “Since we DJ so much in the fashion space, our outfits are always a fun way to express ourselves and the music we’re going to play,” she says. “I think it would be so sick to do a full denim look for a set one day. Honestly, one of the looks from this shoot!”
“No one rocks a Canadian tuxedo better than her,” Alici adds. Pop a few buttons down on the top (for a little airflow, a hint of skin, or both), and roll up the sleeves for a relaxed (and literally cooler) feel.
Bermuda Jorts
If you’re a Bermuda jorts hater, I beg you to reconsider. They’re pretty much the It Girl style for this season with so much more styling potential than your shorter styles. And you can always elevate the look with a fun top.
Opt for a lighter wash with subtle distressing or a raw edge for summer, and prioritize balance. The perfect jorts should feel relaxed and easygoing but with enough structure to look intentionally styled. Our strategy for the rest of the ’fit is all about proportion play: Anchor it with a fitted tank, a cropped tee, or something flirty.
Bootcut Denim
Bootcut is so back, baby—but with a sharper sense of control. The reinvented silhouette has a fitted structure throughout the thighs with a more subtle, elongated angle down from the knees. The denim silhouette is lightweight and summer-coded (especially when you opt for low-rise) and effortlessly lengthens your legs—especially when styled right. Embrace fitted, tucked-in cropped designs on top, and toss a pair of pointy kitten heels or wedges on your feet.
Lead image: All clothing Diesel.
Styled by Brandon Tan. Hair by Akihisa Yamaguchi for Oribe. Makeup by Jenna Kuchera. Manicure by Nori Yamanaka at See Management.
Megan Schaltegger is an NYC-based writer. She loves strong coffee, eating her way through the Manhattan food scene, and her dog, Murray. She promises not to talk about herself in third person IRL.
