A Jeans Expert Recommended Spring Denim From Levi’s and J.Crew for an Effortlessly Elevated Outfit Rotation

While my job tempts me to try every trend, one consistent staple in my wardrobe is solid denim. I hold onto my vintage Levi’s with an iron grip and rarely go a week without slipping into my splurge-worthy Moussy jeans. Even still, I have some dated jeans and shorts that are definitely worth retiring, especially after seeing the recent effortless, cool-girl denim looks from Jennifer Lawrence and Dakota Johnson. So, in the spirit of spring, I asked celebrity stylist Fred Kim to bring new life into my dated denim wardrobe. “Compared to last year, I think this season feels more refined and wearable, rather than statement-driven,” says Kim. “I’m seeing more subtle refinements in silhouettes and washes that are making things feel fresh, yet timeless.”

Feeling a little overwhelmed, Kim told me to start with the material. The key to achieving a timeless effect starts with quality fabric, and Kim cites cotton denim as a strong foundation for a spring capsule wardrobe. “It’s durable, timeless, easy to wear, with the longevity that keeps a wardrobe from feeling disposable or overly trend-driven,” Kim explains. He walked me through some easy swaps to make my spring denim collection feel updated yet timeless enough to last several seasons. 

Instead of: Denim Shorts

Try: Denim Skirts and Dresses

I thought I’d outgrown my miniskirt era, but the J.Crew Pleated Denim Miniskirt roped me right back into trying a shorter hemline. It's a little longer than your average mini, and the thick pleats give it dimension and provide the illusion of more coverage—it feels safe enough to wear in most settings. Plus, denim’s inherently casual nature makes the pleats feel less preppy and school uniform-adjacent. 

The Banana Republic Minidress features a full circle skirt that’s sweet enough to sweep anyone off their feet. Its structured top balances out the voluminous bottom for a flattening fit that looks and feels intentional. Additionally, it’s designed from 100 percent cotton with just a hint of spandex for stretch, making it an ideal throw-and-go spring dress for hotter days. Word to the wise: It runs large, so I suggest sizing down. 

Instead of: Skinny Jeans

Try: Straight-Leg Jeans

The Levi’s Low Loose Jeans are one of those pairs you put on and immediately send a photo to your group chat. How often do jeans fit just right? Although the jeans have a more relaxed silhouette, they hug all the right places, like my backside and hips, while leaving enough room in the thighs for comfort. The waistband dips a hair below my belly button, enough to show a sliver of skin with shorter tops without giving too much away. Unless you like a slimmer fit, I recommend sizing up for a looser, early aughts-inspired look. “Pro tip: When trying out tailored denim styles, make sure you look for 100 percent cotton denim as the rigid fabric holds those lines and shape that make this silhouette work,” says Kim.

Instead of: Trucker Jackets

Try: Denim Shirts

“Although a classic, try out a denim shirt jacket or chore jacket instead of a trucker jacket,” Kim says. I found Everlane’s boxy shirt to be as versatile as my oversized denim jacket, but with a more modern feel. For instance, its cropped cut allows for pairing with any rise bottom, since you don’t have to worry about awkwardly tucking in excess fabric. I also love how layering its square silhouette over shapeless dresses provides, well, shape.  As a bonus, the regenerative fabric is a more eco-conscious choice that’s soft enough to wear as a pajama top. 

Most vests mean business, but Levi’s Sculpted Top is all for having fun. Its slimmer fit offers infinite styling options: Wear it with a thin T-shirt layered underneath, opt for a double-denim outfit like Miley Cyrus, or layer it with an oversized blazer for the office. Although the 99 percent cotton material presents a polished look, its hint of stretch prevents a rib-squeezing feel. 

Instead of: Short Shorts

Try: Long, Baggy Shorts

There is no style more on top of the shorts food chain right now than long, baggy Bermudas. If the Adam Sandler-length style still feels out of your wheelhouse, I like Levi’s slightly shorter version, inspired by Kendall Jenner, that stops just above the knee. True to size, it hangs slightly off the hip and has a relaxed, but not overly baggy fit throughout. I’m usually not into white denim, but this elevated color looks cohesive with kitten heels and nice blouses.