Summer Denim Trends That Aren’t Jeans

This summer, give skinny jeans a break in favor of denim pieces perfectly suited for 90-degree heat waves and beach days. You won’t be alone in your desire for summery denim. “Denim is having a major moment right now. From jackets to jumpsuits, these new pieces are lightweight, effortless and go with everything,” said Susan Fantus, J.Brand co-op manager at Bloomingdales 59th Street. Trends like denim kicks and chambray shirtdresses are giving us anything but the blues. 

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Feet First

Denim is just as stylish on the feet. Start with these denim espadrilles from Rag & Bone. Their two-tone denim is striking and the not-too-high platform gives height without sacrificing an ounce of walkability. Pair them with everything from a bathing suit to cut-offs for a double dose of denim style. If you are heavy into the sneaker game, step into Golden Goose’s light blue denim Superstar Sneaker. The signature distressed details and cool leopard laces are the perfect finish for your floral romper or relaxed maxi dress. 

Layer Up

Chilly mornings and air-conditioner blasts are great excuses to sport the hottest denim jackets of the season. Chunky pearls and frayed trims give this collarless jacket by Generation Love major wow factor. Throw it over a simple sundress or white jeans for instant impact. Cropped styles are also worth checking out like the Cara Cropped Jacket by GRLFRND. Its heavy distressing and bright white shade feel both fresh and edgy.  

Skirt Alert

“The denim skirt is back,” said Fantus. “We are showing it in various lengths and plenty of washes so it works in everyone’s wardrobe.” Denim skirts are also equally as versatile as a pair of jeans. J Brand’s Bonny Skirt is an instant classic with its mid-rise style, medium wash and frayed hem. If you’re looking for more of a statement piece, try the Lyla Skirt, also by J Brand, featuring a bold all-over polka dot print and a sleek silhouette.

One Piece Wonders

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Throw on and go is the perfect summer dressing philosophy. In lightweight chambray, BB Dakota’s romper is ideal over a bikini but works just as well with wedges and a cute clutch for date night. Overalls are back and oh-so popular. Opt for a modern take on this throwback style like Frame’s palazzo pair. They are tailored, sophisticated and were made for sky-high sandals with a 1970s vibe. Everyone needs Madewell’s Courier dress in wardrobe rotation. It is the epitome of effortless with its shirtdress silhouette and slightly oversized fit. 

rachel belkin

Rachel Belkin is a native Long Islander who recently moved back to Woodbury with her husband and two young sons. Rachel has been working as a fashion copywriter for over 10 years and has collaborated with many brands including J.McLaughlin, Judith Leiber, Talbots and Armani. When she is not working, Rachel is watching sports with her boys, shopping online or spinning on her Peloton.