Denim is the king of fabrics; no matter what shape, form or appearance this cotton textile has been fashioned into, from shirts to shoes, we would happily wear it 24/7, with a few conditions attached of course. Good denim is durable, fits well and, most importantly, ups your style – which we like. Bad denim, however, is overly distressed jeans and shirts with embellishment like as studs, rips and embroidery that would make Marilyn Manson run for the hills. Avoid being the guy who wears the later and peep 10 pieces of denim you’ll need to up your style game for 2015.
1. A fresh pair
You can never have enough jeans in your closet, but if any of them have holes the size of golf balls forming at the knees it’s time to replace them. If you’re on a tight new year budget you’ll appreciate these super slim fitting, dark wash Joe Fresh jeans which cost less than $40. Joe Fresh Men’s Super Slim Dark Wash Jean, $39.
2. Canadian made
Got a little more cash to spend? Splurge for a pair of jeans by Naked & Famous. These Canadian jeans are fashioned from raw Japanese selvedge denim and are designed in the company’s most slimming cut. Important to note: these jeans have a button fly. Naked & Famous Super Skinny Guy Stretch Selvedge Jeans, $155 USD.
3. No judgement
Ok, so maybe chambray isn’t technically denim but this is a judgement free zone. Denim shirts my not be your thing but this chambray number by J.Crew and Wallace & Barnes will change your mind. Its collarless design gives it a relaxed look and feel that doesn’t err too much on the casual side, making a great layering piece under sweaters and blazers or worn on its own. J.Crew x Wallace & Barnes Band-Collar Japanese Selvedge Chambray Shirt, $138 USD.
4. Kicking it chambray
Whether you’re running errands or meeting up with the boys for a pint at the pub, TOMS’s Chambray Paseos will be your go-to shoes when you just want to kick it. Not sure how to style them? Keep it simple and pair with khakis or, of course, a pair of jeans. TOMS Light Blue Chambray Men’s Paseos, $70.
5. Shirt styles
From afar this Brioni number looks like a regular dress shirt, but up close it reveals its true nature. Thanks to its lightweight composition this slick denim shirt will feel as light as a feather on your shoulders. Brioni Lightweight Denim Contrast-Collar Shirt, $470 USD.
6. Down with the hood
We love our sweats like, as 50 Cent would say, “Like a fat kid loves cake” and wish we could have worn this denim-effect hoodie to this year’s Super Bowl XLIX party. J.Crew Wallace & Barnes Denim-Effect Cotton-Terry Hoodie, $145 USD.
7. Da bomb
Fast fashion retailer Zara takes a new spin on the jean jacket, by designing it into a hybrid bomber-puffer outerwear piece. Zara Padded Denim Jacket, $99.90.
8. Classic commuter
For guys who like Old Faithfuls, Levi’s Commuter denim jacket is a classic piece that will never go out of style thanks to its four-pocket design and button fastenings. Levi’s Commuter Hooded Denim Jacket, £160.
9. Tie effect
Denim in small doses can be just as impactful as wearing it from head to toe, if you decide to not go the Canadian tuxedo route. Marwood has geniously created a denim-effect tie in 100 percent silk that will definitely up your sartorial A-game in the office. Marwood Blue Denim Navy Tie, £115.
10. Blue bag
When you’re constantly on the go you’ll need sturdy bag to carry all your gear. Nella Bella’s Hampton is a durable duffle made from strong denim and vegan leather, which will keep up with your city to country adventures. Nella Bella Hampton, $89.
