Chic & Timeless: The Best Denim Pieces for Women Over 60 Right Now
Denim trends come and go, but denim fabric remains an MVP in many women’s wardrobes. It’s one of my go-to options for putting together an outfit that’s both stylish and comfortable. These days, denim is so much more than just blue jeans. There are plenty of ways to incorporate this classic fabric into your wardrobe, from skirts to handbags. Today, I’m sharing some of the best denim pieces to consider adding to your closet, along with my favorite tips for styling them for women over 60.
Denim Jackets: The Ultimate Layering Piece
A great denim jacket is an essential part of my wardrobe. It’s a simple basic that coordinates with almost everything and feels more sporty than a blazer. They’re perfect for layering no matter the season, and you can find me wearing them in all but the very hottest of weather.
This Denim Peplum Jacket has a streamlined silhouette and a slimming shape. It’s a dark, stretchy denim with covered snaps in front and a spread collar. I found this one runs large, so you can consider sizing down. The princess seaming helps give it a feminine shape, and the lack of distressing elevates the look.
This denim Utility Jacket is hip-length, which will cover most longer tops. The utility styling and lighter wash make this one more casual.
My Kut From The Kloth Denim Jacket is still available this year in a slightly different wash and the same comfy shape. The lack of a bottom band makes this more comfy than more structured jackets.
This Talbots Collarless Jacket has no bottom band, and the lack of a collar makes it even softer and more comfortable. I grabbed the wrong size, so this is too large for me, but it runs true to size.
Denim jackets come in every color imaginable to suit any season and mood. I’m particularly fond of the versatility of a white denim jacket and wear them year-round.
Styling Tips For Denim Jackets:
- Over a Dress: The perfect finishing touch over your favorite casual dress. Finish the look with sandals, sneakers, or ankle boots, depending on the season.
- Monochromatic Look: I’m a big fan of a Canadian tuxedo look. Just vary your denim washes to add a little interest.
- Column of Color: Pop your denim jacket on over a column of color for an easy outfit.
Recommended Washes:
- White or Ecru: Crisp and modern, perfect for spring and summer.
- Classic Blue: Timeless and pairs with almost everything.
- Dark Wash: Sleek and sophisticated, great for dressier occasions.
More Denim Jackets for Women Over 50:
Denim Shirts: Casual and Chic
I’ve always loved a good denim or chambray shirt. They’re versatile, comfortable, and have an undeniably cool vibe that works for my casual lifestyle. They can be styled in countless ways to create outfits that feel both current and stylish.
This J Crew Factory Chambray shirt is in constant rotation in my wardrobe. It’s a beautiful, soft, 100% cotton, and you can’t beat the price!
Denim Pop-over shirts like this one from Talbots are also very popular to wear untucked or tucked into your favorite bottoms.
Styling Tips:
- Tuck It In: A denim shirt tucked into tailored trousers with loafers or flats is a timeless, polished combination.
- Layer It: Wear button-ups open over a striped tee or tank top with slim jeans or cropped pants for a relaxed yet chic vibe.
- Tie It Up: I love the juxtaposition of a denim shirt with a long, flowy skirt.
- I share even more styling tips for denim shirts in this post.
Recommended Fits:
- Relaxed Fit: Comfortable without being sloppy.
- Fitted Styles: Ideal for layering under sweaters or jackets.
- Button-Up Details: Add sophistication to your casual looks.
More Denim Shirts for Women Over 60:
Denim Dresses: Feminine and Effortless
A denim dress strikes the perfect balance between casual and chic. It’s polished enough to make you feel put-together but not so fussy that you’ll regret choosing it when the day gets long.
My favorite style of denim dress is a shirtdress, although they come in every style you can think of. Both of the denim dresses hanging in my closet are from Frank and Eileen. They’re both vintage stonewashed denim that keeps getting better with each wash.
Styling Tips:
- Add a Belt: Define your waist with a stylish belt to create a flattering shape.
- Third Layer: I like wearing my denim dresses open as a third layer over a tank top and slim pants.
- Transition to Fall or Winter: Pair with a lightweight cardigan or blazer in cooler weather.
Popular Styles:
- Shirt Dresses: These button-front styles are classic and easy to style up or down.
- Fit-and-Flare: Perfect for creating a feminine, hourglass silhouette.
- Midi Length: Offers a polished, age-appropriate look.
More Denim Dresses:
Denim Skirts: Timeless and Versatile
Denim skirts are a great alternative to jeans for a casual lifestyle. It gives you that same relaxed vibe but with a softer, more feminine touch. Plus, they’re easy to dress up with the right accessories.
I’ve gotten a lot of wear out of this raw-hem denim skirt. I wore it with sandals and a tee during the summer and then with knee boots and a suede belt this fall and winter. It was too long for me, and because it had a raw hem, I simply used my scissors to cut off several inches.
I prefer a denim skirt with a slit, whether in front, side or back. Not only do they make movements like walking and crossing your legs easier, but they also allow airflow, which is essential on a warm day.
Styling Tips:
- Pair with a Blouse: Tuck in a blouse and add flats or low heels for a refined, everyday look.
- Add Tights and Boots: For cooler months, layer your denim skirt with opaque tights and ankle boots, or go with a knee-high pair.
- Try Double Denim: Pair with a chambray shirt for a cohesive, modern outfit.
Ideal Lengths:
- Knee length: Better for warm weather and allows for easier movement.
- Midi Skirt: The most versatile length, in my opinion.
- A-Line Silhouette: Comfortable and flattering for all body types.
More Denim Skirts for Women Over 60:
Denim Jeans: The Foundation of Every Wardrobe
Jeans are a must-have for women of all ages, and the key to wearing them well over 60 is finding the right fit and style. Comfort and quality are paramount, so invest in well-made pairs that feel great and look fabulous.
It’s no secret that I love a great pair of jeans. They’ve been a staple in my wardrobe for as long as I can remember. Jeans come in so many silhouettes, sizes, washes, and leg shapes; there is a flattering pair of jeans out there for any woman who wants to wear them.
Best Styles for Women Over 60:
- Straight-Leg Jeans: A classic option that never goes out of style.
- High-Waisted Jeans: Offer a sleek silhouette and excellent coverage.
- Bootcut or Flare Jeans: Create balance and elongate the legs beautifully.
- Wide-Leg Jeans: Skim the body rather than clinging to it, which makes them incredibly forgiving and flattering.
Styling Tips:
- Dress Them Up: Pair with a tailored blazer and heeled ankle boots for an elevated look.
- Opt for Dark Washes: These are universally slimming and versatile.
- Experiment with Cropped Styles: Cropped straight-leg jeans look modern and pair beautifully with flats or sandals.
More Denim Jeans for Women Over 60:
Denim Handbags
A handbag is such a fun and unexpected way to incorporate denim into your look. Whether it’s a tote, crossbody, or clutch, a denim bag brings texture and character to any outfit. Here are a few stylish denim handbags I’ve found that are perfect for trying out this trend:
What is your favorite way to wear denim?
Great post! I think I need a denim handbag.😀 I’ve been searching high and low for a midi or maxi a-line or full denim skirt with an elastic waist. No luck! Any suggestions?
There are lots of Aline denim skirts this year. Check out this one.
Thank you very much! Still looking for the elastic waist.
Great ideas for jeans! I really live in denim….I just added a Talbots denim shirt to my wardrobe and it’s turning out to be a really versatile top. Just can’t find the right flaired jeans yet..might just skip the trend….have a great weekend
Great post today, Jennifer! I practically live in jeans and have only changed the style I wear, most recently from jeggings to wide legged or flared which I am loving! I find them so much more comfortable. I purchased that Kut from the Kloth jean jacket last year and love the look and feel of it without the bottom band. I am itching to buy that Talbots jacket (the one without a collar or a band) but I already own so many jean jackets I hate to add yet another. Off topic, but would you mind telling me the style # of your Tom Ford eyeglass frames? I am due for a new pair of glasses and I love those frames on you. Thank you!
I love those glasses too. They are here
Thank you for all the Jean ideas. Will look to buy more denim that is comfortable.
Out of all the blogs I follow yours is the one I come to for the best in style ideas! Jennifer you nail it every time! I noticed you didn’t feature stovepipe jeans and wonder what your thoughts are on this style. I tried some on at Talbots yesterday and they fit really well but I didn’t think they were particularly flattering on my 5’3” frame. I’m a similar size as you and just thought they made me look short and squat. Thank you for such a great blog and for all the time you spend on actual try ons! It really helps to see it on someone rather than just a picture from a catalog or website.
I usually like stovepipe jeans but have not tried those ones on. If the leg is too full through the hip they can be unflattering. I’ll try to get in to try them on.
I’m looking for a light wash denim vest. I had a white one that caught a fatal stain, so I’d like to replace it. The brand who did the white vest doesn’t do a blue, so I’m on the hunt. Suggestions?
How long do you want? Levis makes quite a few.
I have had a medium wash denim jacket for years and I added a white one at your suggestion last summer. I wear jeans everyday. I didn’t for years during the skinny jeans as they are so uncomfortable for me as well as mid rise which I find ugly on me and terribly uncomfortable. But the Chicos trouser jeans and wide leg came out and they are high rise, so I started wearing them. So comfortable and soft! At JCP, the Gloria Vanderbilt Amanda straight leg jeans are warmer for winter , are high rise and fit my mature figure in a 12S for short. I love my chambray shirt from Kohls, soft and affordable. I love your blog today as I can do my high low game in my closet with your clothes. I wear cotton cashmere blend sweaters from Quince on sale, bought three in neutrals, love them and layer up under flannel shirts when 9 degrees. This is small town Colorado so no blazers. Fun post and I will save for reference.
Very comprehensive posting on denim.
I like wearing denim jackets, straight and bootcut jeans and cropped jeans in summer. I bought the Kut From The Kloth jacket a couple of years ago and still enjoy it. I love seeing how you style it. I don’t think I have seen this picture of you wearing it with a black dress. It is very cute and fun!
Great post, Jennifer, with lots of cute ideas. I couldn’t find a link to the very last denim jacket you modeled. It’s the short white collared one with frayed bottom edge. I really like the look of that one, and I’d like to have more information. Could you let me know whose jacket that is? Thanks!
That’s a Vera Wang Jacket from Kohls several seasons ago. This one looks very similar
Jennifer the jacket, cuffed jean outfit/you are gorgeous. Your superpower is teaching us to understand our style and to choose-wear clothes that represent our best selves. You are looking lean and trim!!! This was a good read, thank you.
Dianne
I love having a superpower! Thanks for being here Dianne xo
Wow! You really covered it all.
I have a light blue denium shirt I bought from Talbots a couple years ago. I loved it and had to have it. Unfortunately I never wear it because I don’t know how to style it. Thanks for these tips.
Toss it on with anything! They look great under a blazer too.
I love all things denim. All your outfits are amazing. If it wasn’t for denim I have no idea what I would wear. I really enjoyed this post.
I’m sort of the same way, Rosemary.
Good Morning Jennifer, great article on Demin …. since I have a closet full. Especially love that Wit and Wisdom jacket. I’ve always been afraid to wear denim on denim. My denim jacket never quite matches the same color of the jeans. Didn’t know if it was appropriate. Shoes: every time I see you wearing those Fisher Purl booties, I kick myself for not buying them when they were on sale. They look great with jeans.
Try having different washes. Dark denim with light. Gray denim with blue or black. It’s easier
What an epic post, thank you! I don’t personally find jeans that comfortable but they are a necessity. Denim shirts, jackets, dresses and skirts are comfy to me and they travel so well! When I transitioned my wardrobe to my dark winter season, denim tops and jackets were a struggle. The lighter denim and chambray washes me out (it’s usually in the summer palette which is why it looks so great on you! ). I’ve replaced most with darker blue denim, gray and black-for items worn near my face. I’ve kept my favorite jean jackets and try to wear them with a top in my color or scarf. I removed the bottom band on one and I love the result. In also have a work wear style (Carhart!) that gets a lot of wear.
Carhart! You go girl. I like your style Shari.
I spied the first jacket you are wearing from J Crew. Are you happy with it? how does it fit you? I have a hard time getting the correct fit with J Crew. Do you like that jacket?
I love it! The wool is beautifully smooth and polished. bought it last winter and it’s been a reliable favorite in my wardrobe. The petite is perfect.
Wow! What a great post, Jennifer! I love receiving your emails every morning. You are a breath of fresh air and your blog is the very best on the web for us mature ladies. I have my fingers crossed that Talbots will be revealing some coloured denim jackets in the months ahead. Nothing makes me feel prettier than a summer dress topped with mint green or pink denim jacket over top. Keep up your beautiful work. It is so very appreciated! Lynn
Their newest fun colored denim jackets are here.