The New Look of Designer Denim

By Real Simple
Updated July 23, 2012
Nigel Cox
Edgy prints, flashy metallics, gutsy combos: Denim has reclaimed its old swagger and attitude, but with a decidedly stylish new twist.
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Two Tones

Nigel Cox

The contrast collar and sleeves of the jean jacket have a waxy coated finish.

To buy: J Brand jean jacket with black coated denim, $260, 800-777-0000.

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On the Wild Side

Nigel Cox

Toned down in color but amplified in pattern or texture, these bold styles look most sophisticated paired with neutrals and a touch of gold sparkle.

To buy (from left): Rich & Skinny black paisley jeans, $172, 866-509-1990. Hudson gray lace-print jeans, $176, 866-509-9938. NYDJ jeans charcoal snakeskin-print jeans, $130, 800-407-6001. H&M blush snakeskin-print jeans, $30, hm.com for stores.

Wear them with (from top): Banana Republic necklace. Stella & Dot bracelet. Chloe + Isabel necklace.

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Moody Hues

Nigel Cox

Your rainbow-bright jeans are fine for August, but once the leaves start to turn, switch to fall-friendly jewel shades, earth tones, and metallics. Organic-inspired jewelry and lush suedes, silks, and knits complement the rich palette.

To buy (clockwise from top right): Sold brown tribal-pattern jeans, $138, dillards.com for stores. James Jeans red coated jeans, $176, jamesjeans.us for info. Forever 21 red floral jeans, $28, forever21.com. Paige red leaf-print jeans, $189, 323-325-9824.

Wear them with (from left): Coldwater Creek necklace. Tila March flats. Banana Republic necklace.

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Bronzed and Beautiful

Nigel Cox

A gorgeous bronze shimmer upgrades same-old jeans, making them both office-ready (if your office is casual enough) and worthy of a night on the town.

To buy: Calvin Klein Jeans bronze coated jeans, $80, 866-513-0513.

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Slick and Surprising

Nigel Cox

Even tried-and-true indigo is getting the remix treatment with eye-catching embellishments.

To buy (from top): Raven Denim stamped jeans, $219, 877-659-7793. Sanctuary lace-print jeans, $139, 800-927-7671. Rebecca Taylor floral jeans, $100, rebeccataylor.com. Theory leather-trimmed jeans, $365, By George, 512-472-5951.

Wear them with (from top): The 2 Bandits necklace. Rag & Bone booties. SW1 booties. Ben-Amun bangle.

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Deep Purple

Nigel Cox

A leather–look-alike blazer (it’s really coated denim) in dark purple creates an easygoing yet cool vibe.

To buy: 7 for All Mankind coated-denim blazer, $325, 866-427-1114.

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