Your Denim Jacket: The Icon

Trends may come and go, but there are a few items of clothing that never ever go out of style. The denim jacket is not only a classic piece but a style icon unto itself. It’s rooted in history and functionality but is versatile enough to take on different cuts and colors that show off your individual taste and style. Invest in this American staple to take your own look to the next level.

EVOLUTION OF THE JEAN JACKET

While some jean jackets have looked the same for over 100 years, the history of this iconic piece is anything but boring.

EARLY DAYS

Denim was adopted as an unofficial work uniform in the early 1900’s due to its durability and comfort. The first jean jacket was intended to be worn for work along with the original blue jeans; both were marketed towards farmers, mechanics, and miners.

These early jackets were simple and practical: they were short and boxy, without any decorative stitching or buttons. They were an emblem of the workingman, the cowboy, someone who was as good as his word and wouldn’t back down from what was right (or a fight).

BECOMING “COOL”

When these work shirts were adopted in the 1940’s by celebrities like John Wayne and Bing Crosby, the garment took on a new, cooler life.

By the 50s and 60s, denim was no longer just for working people. The younger generations wore it, embracing the comfortable structure to rebel against a buttoned-up society. James Dean and Steve McQueen cemented the jean jacket as the ultimate “cool” accessory, and teens everywhere happily followed suit.

PUNK PERFECTION

The color and cuts of these jackets evolved over time, with the punk-rock community adopting black denim jeans and jackets (with or without sleeves) as their unofficial uniform. They’d pin patches from their favorite bands on their jackets, which became a visual aid for the anti-establishment ideals of bands like the Sex Pistols and Black Flag.

THE ULTIMATE CHAMELEON

The jean jacket today may still resemble the early versions designed for working on a farm, but they’re way more flexible than that. You’ll see versions that are cropped, tailored, or oversized. They’re in every wash imaginable and may feature distinctive stitching, bold graphics, and other embellishments that help them stand out.

THE DENIM JACKET: A STYLE ICON FOR ALL STYLES

Whether you prefer the classics or have a style that’s all your own, there’s a jean jacket that’s perfect for you.

CLASSIC JEAN JACKETS

This classic style hasn’t changed much since the early 1900’s. They’re a classic for a reason, after all!

Men who prefer a traditional, slim silhouette should look to the Jimmy Denim Jacket, the Jesse Single Needle Denim Trucker Jacket, or the all-black Denim Trucker Jacket. For women, the Hoodie Denim Trucker Jacket is the classic cool you’re looking for.

EMBELLISHED DENIM JACKETS

Don’t be afraid to make yourself known! Consider these embellished denim jackets for men and women an extension of your incredible personality.

Ladies who love a little sparkle should try the Crystal Fringe Denim Jacket. If you desire a little extra softness, the Faux Fur Trim Denim Jacket is the perfect wardrobe addition.

For men, the Jimmy Curved Seam Denim Jacket features contrasting denim washes stitched together for a great look. But if detailed stitching is more your thing, look to the Jimmy Pick Stitch Western Jacket.

OVERSIZED DENIM JACKETS

The oversized look has gained popularity in recent years and gives off a vibe that’s relaxed and trendy for men and women. Women, complete your look with the Oversized Denim Metallic Logo Jacket.

CROPPED JEAN JACKETS

Lean into the cropped trend with styles for women like the Crop Denim Trucker Jacket, a shrunken version of the classic jean jacket. Go for the Vintage Big T Crop Jacket, which features an edgy wash and True Religion’s iconic detailed stitching.

STYLING A JEAN JACKET

With jean jackets, you can dress them up or down or center your entire outfit around them. Whether you’re purchasing a classic piece or something a little more on trend, styling a jean jacket is easy with these tips.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

A denim jacket is a perfect outer layer over a casual T-shirt or a button-down. It’s great over a dress but goes just as well with almost any pant style. Don’t overthink a classic jean jacket; it’ll polish up any outfit.

LAYER IT UP

Jean jackets are ideal for layering. Wear one over a cozy hooded sweatshirt and joggers for a comfortable athleisure look everywhere you go. Pair one with a chunky sweater for a great textural contrast. Throw a flannel over your T-shirt and top it all with a jean jacket, and you’re ready to go.

DON’T LOSE YOUR BALANCE

Denim on denim has been popular for ages, but if you take the Canadian tuxedo for a spin, go for a look that appears balanced and thoughtful and makes you feel comfortable. Pair an oversized jacket with fitted pieces to show off your silhouette. By contrast, a super-fitted jacket might look better with baggy jeans.

A good jean jacket can elevate your wardrobe, adding classic cool to your look. Whether you’re playing with personalization and embellishment, sticking to the basics, or blazing your path, this is one piece of denim your closet simply can’t go without.