How to Dress Up Denim

Denim is one of the most popular and versatile fabrics in existence. Since the invention of jeans in the 1870s, denim has become a staple of every American wardrobe. The once utilitarian fabric, reserved for the construction of sturdy work clothes, is now one of the hottest elements of high fashion. With some imagination and attention to detail, anyone can take denim from casual Friday to the runway. Read on to learn how.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Fade to black. Faded denim is on its way out in favor of more sophisticated, slimming dark washes. Keep your acid washed pieces in preparation for the next trend shift, but wear dark washes for a dressy, current look. Black and chocolate brown denim are also popular and add variety and functionality to a wardrobe.

2. Keep it simple. Over-accessorizing can take an ensemble from classy to tacky in no time. Pair a cotton tank or silk camisole with plain jeans, for what supermodel Tyra Banks calls a modelesque look. Accessorize with ballet flats or high heels, understated jewelry and an embellished or colorful handbag to complete the look. For a more professional look, add a tailored jacket.

3. Branch out. Denim isn't just for jeans anymore. Dress up your everyday wardrobe with flat-front denim trousers, long and short denim skirts, tailored jean jackets and denim shirt dresses, True wardrobe classics, these trendy denim styles will be relevant long after they've left the fashion forefront.

4. Embellish your wardrobe. Top designers and copycats add everything from fringe to fur to give denim a distinctive look. A few well-placed stones or studs can add character and elegance to a pair of jeans or a denim purse. If you can't find affordable embellished jeans, stock up on craft supplies and create your own. The design possibilities are endless, just remember that understatement it key to a clean, dressy look.

5. Pair denim with evening wear for a fun, fashionable look. Wear a jean jacket over a simple black cocktail dress or couple a dressy tunic with skinny jeans. To complement your eclectic style, encourage your date to wear a Texas tuxedo, ditching tailored pants and shiny shoes in favor of blue jeans and boots.

Tips & Warnings

• If you wear heels with jeans, make sure the jeans cover your heel with the shoes on. Short jeans and heels are a fashion don't. Worn correctly, the jeans and heels combo will lengthen and slim your legs.
• Guys can dress up denim too. For a great look that can go from the business lunch to a dinner date, don solid wingtip shoes, a button down, a leather belt and your favorite pair of jeans. Add a blazer to take the look a step further.