Focus on - Denim shirts

Please note that all of the links in this post are affiliate links

When I was putting together the basics list, I knew I had to include the humble denim shirt. It’s such a timeless wardrobe staple that always manages to stay relevant and in fashion.

Today's JOYDROP is all about knowing what makes a denim shirt work for you.

As I started digging into this, I realised there’s a lot to consider when choosing a denim shirt. Back in the early 2010s, chambray denim shirts were everywhere. Chambray is a lighter, thinner version of denim and you often seen it styled knotted at the waist over a dress or tucked into jeans and skirts. This style is still great if you’re after something soft and easy to layer, perfect for warmer months or as a lightweight option for spring and summer time when you want to use it as an easy layer.

Right now, thicker denim shirts are having a moment. These can almost double as a lightweight denim jacket, adding structure and weight to an outfit. They’re perfect for creating a more casual look and work well layered over a roll-neck or under a chunky cardigan for colder days. A thick denim shirt can also be a fantastic statement piece—just roll up the sleeves and style it with wide-leg trousers for a relaxed yet polished vibe. You often see them styled fully untucked or half tucked.

Both types of shirt are currently widely available in the shops, and I see both regularly being worn out and about. So don’t for one second think you can’t carry on wearing your lighter Chambray shirt. Trends come and go, but classics like this will always have a place in our wardrobes. I currently have a lighter Chambray shirt in my wardrobe, and I’m on the hunt for a thicker one.

Tips for Choosing the Right Denim Shirt for Your Body Shape

• Pear Shape: Go for a denim shirt with added details on the top half, like pockets, stitching, or a darker wash, to draw attention upwards. Pair it with darker bottoms to create balance. A knotted chambray shirt over a high-waisted skirt can also highlight your waist beautifully (this is how you often see me wearing a denim shirt!)

• Rectangle Shape: Similar to the Pear shape you can wear a shirt with details, look for one that has ruffles, puffed sleeves, or other feminine details. A slightly oversized denim shirt can also work well—just belt it at the waist to create definition. Layering with a scarf or a statement necklace can add interest and dimension.

• Hourglass Shape: Emphasise your waist! Choose a fitted style or belt a looser denim shirt to highlight your natural curves. Shirts with darts or shaping at the waist will also work beautifully. Tucking a denim shirt into high-waisted jeans or trousers can help define your shape while keeping the look streamlined.

• Apple Shape: Look for a denim shirt with structure but avoid anything too stiff. A chambray shirt or a mid-weight denim style that skims rather than clings is ideal. A longer hemline that falls just below the hip can help create balance, and wearing it open over a fitted tee or tank top can add vertical lines (this looks particularly great when you wear a column of colour underneath)

• Inverted Triangle Shape: Balance broader shoulders with a denim shirt in a softer fabric like chambray or a looser fit. Avoid shirts with bulky pockets or embellishments on the chest (you can get away with a pocket just make it a subtle one) as they can add volume where you don’t want it. Pair your shirt with wide-leg trousers or an A-line skirt to balance proportions.

Links to Shirts in the shops

I’ve categorised this into Autumn & Winter and Spring & Summer, separating darker and lighter denim. That said, I wouldn’t worry too much about sticking to these “rules.” Instead, think about your own wardrobe and what you’ll get the most wear out of. For example, if you often wear lighter denim on your bottom half, adding a darker denim jacket could be a really handy addition to balance your outfits and add variety. You will also notice how some of the denim washes are more muted or bright. So there are loads of options out there.

Shop the links below

1.Hush - £30

2. H&M - £32.99

3. Tu Clothing - £18

4. Omnes UK - £25

5. M&S - £29.50

1.La Redoute £28

2. Oliver Bonas - £30

3. Levi’s - £39

4. Debenhams - £39

5. Nobody’s child - £30

Britney & JT rocking matching Canadian Tuxedos in the 90’s

General Styling Tips for Denim Shirts

1. Denim on Denim: Otherwise known as a Canadian Tuxedo. This classic pairing tends to look best when you mix washes—think a dark denim shirt with lighter jeans or vice versa. Break it up with a belt or bold accessories for extra interest. You can wear the same two shades of denim, but you have to be VERY intentional about it.

2. Layering Hero: Wear a chambray denim shirt under a jumper or cardigan, letting the collar peek out for a touch of texture, or under a blazer as an interesting detail. Alternatively, wear it over a dress as a casual jacket alternative.

3. Tucked or Knotted: Tuck it into a midi skirt or knot it over a summer dress for an effortlessly chic look. This is also a great way to highlight your waist (and when a lightweight shirt really comes into its own.)

4. Accessories Make the Look: Add a colourful scarf, bold earrings, or a statement bag to elevate a simple denim shirt outfit.

A denim shirt is one of those pieces that can truly work for everyone—you just need to find the style, fabric, and fit that feel right for you. Whether you go for the softer chambray option or the structured, thicker style, there’s no denying it’s a wardrobe MVP.