The Modern Denim Jacket Alternative

Fall is right around the corner, and I know I am not the only grown-ass woman who finds herself reaching for a denim jacket to keep those sundresses and tanks wearable as the temps drop. This year, when it comes to denim jackets, you have serious options. Don't hold yourself back with a classic silhouette; the 2025 denim jacket may better fit your personal style and personality!

Top row, left to right: one (XXS-XXL & petite/tall) | two (XS-5X) | three (XS-L) | four (XS-XL)
Bottom row: one (12W-24W) | two (XS-XXL) | three (XS-4X & petite/tall) | four (XXS-XL)

Think denim jacket with panache. It's a hybrid with a bomber jacket, or a moto jacket, or a shacket. It's a glammed-out chore jacket, or incorporates the bubble hem trend, or has statement shoulders and/or a statement collar. It's quilted o9r patched or embroidered. It's taking a utilitarian garment and making it a form of art. And this switch-up helps it transcend trends, making it just as versatile as its classic cousin, but a lot more fun.

Top row: one (XS-XL) | two (XXS-XL) | three (1X-4X) | four (XS-XL)
Middle row: one (XXS-3X) | two (XXS-XXL & petite) | three (XS-L)
Bottom row: one (XXS-XXL & petite/tall) | two (XS-XL) | three (XS-XL) | four (XS-XL)

Earlier this year, I wrote about alternatives to the denim jacket, but now that current trends have stabilized, it's clear that the way forward is an alternative to the classic denim jacket, but still with a focus on denim. Perusing the current styles available, I saw some clear trends and wanted to share with you.

You will find a lot of these looks aren't brand new. In fact, you may have them in your closet, are able to thrift them, or even upcycle an existing jacket to give it new life in a modern way.

Top row, left to right: one (12/14-28/30) | two (XXS-XXL) | three (XS-XL) | four (S-XL)
Middle row: one (XXS-XXL) | two (XXS-3X & petite) | three (XXS-XXL & petite/tall)
Bottom row: one (2-12) | two (XS-XL) | three (XXS-XXL) | four (XXS-XL)

Most denim jackets this fall are stonewashed to rinse in color, bit you will find some faded, distressed, and tints. There is also a lot of mixing of washes, with some pieces of the jacket lighter or darker than the others.

Top row: one (14W-24W) | two (XXS-XL) | three (XS-XL) | four (XS-XL)
Middle row: one (00-20) | two (XXS-XXL & petite) | three (XS-XL)
Bottom row: one (XXS-XXL & petite) | two (XS-XL) | three (XXS-XXL) | four (XS-4X & petite/tall)

The Canadian Tuxedo is still going strong, and it's up to you whether you want to match perfectly or mix washes. My suggestion is either have a perfect match, or have serious contrast so it's clear you're not trying to match. Keep it cohesive with a similar finish (chambray with chambray, rinse with rinse, acid or stone wash with the same).

Top row: one (XXS-XXL) | two (XXS-XXL) | three (XS-XXL) | four (XS-L)
Middle row: one (XXS-XXL & petite/tall) | two (16W-22W) | three (XXS-XXL)
Bottom row: one (XS-XXL) | two (S-5XL) | three (0/2-20/22) | four (XS-XL)

This is not the year of rolling up your denim jacket sleeves. If the sleeves are too long, consider getting the jacket tailored, or use something to keep the sleeves pushed up. If like me, your arms are too full for rubber bands, slim scunchies like these are a comfortable alternative. Push up the jacket and slip the scrunchie over the jacket where you want the ruching to end (above, in the middle or below your elbow) and adjust the sleeve to cover it up.

Top row, left to right: one (XS-XL) | two (XS-XL) | three (32-42) | four (XS-XXL)
Middle row: one (XXS-XL) | two (XXXS-3X)
Bottom row: one (XS-XL) | two (XS-L) | three (XS-XXL & petite/tall) | four (XS-XXL & petite/tall)

And if you still love your traditional denim jacket, rock it with confidence. Do know that you will find the looser, oversized, and more creatively cut denim jackets to feel the most modern, and the fitted, cropped, and stretchy versions a bit dated. But it's all about how to style it that determines if it is a hit or a miss. And in 2025, style is about confidence. If that jacket gives you confidence, you and it will look great.