If there’s one item that consistently anchors my wardrobe, it’s denim. Always has been, always will be. Trends may come and go—slouchy tailoring, oversized blazers, ballet flats making their rounds again—but denim has never wavered in its place as the backbone of my personal style.
Over the years, I like to think my style has evolved. I’ve experimented, embraced new silhouettes, and let go of others. But through every phase, denim has remained the one piece that feels the most me. Whether I’m leaning into something polished with a structured coat or keeping it casual with sneakers and a tee, denim is the foundation I come back to again and again.
Why Denim Works So Hard in My Closet
The beauty of denim is its endless versatility. A single pair of jeans can take you from running errands in the morning to a dinner out in the evening with just a change of shoes and accessories. Few things in fashion pull double (or triple) duty as seamlessly as denim does.
It’s also incredibly personal. The “perfect” pair looks different for everyone—what matters is how it makes you feel. For me, the right pair of jeans should do three things:
- Make me feel confident.
- Hold up to daily wear.
- Pair effortlessly with the rest of my closet.
Once you find styles that tick all those boxes, you don’t need an overflowing collection.
My Approach: Quality Over Quantity
I’m often asked how many pairs of jeans I think someone “needs.” My honest answer? Far fewer than most of us probably own. Personally, I keep a rotation of five or six pairs. That’s it.
It’s tempting to chase every new silhouette—cropped flares one year, ultra-baggy the next—but I’ve learned that building a strong denim lineup is more about consistency than excess. The pairs I reach for most often are the ones that have stood the test of time: a classic straight leg, a relaxed vintage cut, something slightly cropped, and one or two in darker washes for a dressier feel.
When you have those key bases covered, you’ll be surprised at how little else you actually need.
Old Favorites and New Additions
Last year, I put together a denim guide highlighting my go-to styles, and it’s funny—many of those same pairs are still on heavy rotation today. That, to me, is the sign of a truly good jean: when you’re reaching for it season after season without hesitation.
That said, I’ve also discovered a few newer styles that have earned a spot in my lineup. I’ll be photographing those and sharing updated notes throughout the week, because I know firsthand how helpful it is to see jeans styled different ways before committing to a new pair. Fit and feel are everything, and visuals go a long way in showing how a style really lives in an everyday wardrobe.
Shopbop’s Denim Edit (and Mine)
This week, Shopbop launched their seasonal denim guide, which is always worth a browse. They do a wonderful job of breaking down what’s trending and which brands are leading the charge.
But as someone who has partnered with Shopbop for years and tested many, many pairs, I also love creating my own edit—pieces I’ve worn, lived in, and can recommend without hesitation. My version is less about “this is what’s new” and more about “this is what really works.” Because at the end of the day, denim should make your life easier, not more complicated.
Building Your Own Denim Capsule
If you’re looking to streamline your own denim collection, I’d suggest starting with these categories:
- The Everyday Straight Leg
Your reliable, go-with-anything pair. Works with sneakers, flats, heels, and boots. - The Vintage-Inspired Relaxed Fit
A slightly looser cut that feels modern but timeless. Perfect for days when comfort is key. - The Cropped Style
Whether a flare or a slim cut, this one is great for showing off ankle boots or a standout shoe. - The Dressier Dark Wash
Polished enough for a dinner date or casual Friday at the office. - The Wild Card
A trend-forward pair that speaks to your current mood—maybe wide-leg, maybe coated denim, maybe something unexpected.
You don’t need to own every iteration out there, but having these categories covered ensures you’ll always have the right option for whatever your day (or night) looks like.
Closing Thoughts
If I had to sum it up, denim is more than just a wardrobe essential—it’s the one item that makes me feel most at home in my own skin. It grounds my style, connects my past with my present, and evolves with me season after season.
I’ll be sharing more updated denim looks and fit notes in the coming days, but if you’re in the mood to refresh your own collection, both Shopbop’s denim guide and my personal edit are great places to start. Just remember: it’s not about how many pairs you own. It’s about finding the ones that make you feel like the best version of yourself—because those are the jeans you’ll reach for time and again.
