The Return of Denim Jackets Is Upon Us—Here’s What’s Different This Time

Full disclosure: I own at least 10 denim jackets. It’s probably about 8 more than I need, but they were so popular for such a long time (a basic even), so I just stocked up over the years. Then people started wearing them less and less, which I never predicted would’ve happened, but fashion can be a bit unpredictable. 

Some time has passed since denim jackets took a backburner to other jacket styles, so I’m not surprised that they’re starting to crawl their way back into the spotlight. And I’m also kind of thrilled. The denim jackets we’re used to seeing were always a bit plain and, well, boring. The 2021 versions are bedazzled, adorned with cool collars, extra oversized, colored, spliced, and brilliantly reworked. I’ve been so overwhelmed by the number of interesting denim jackets I’ve come across as of late that I had to put them all in one place for your shopping convenience.

Scroll on to shop my favorite interesting denim jackets on the market, because fall will be here before you know it.

This two-tone denim jacket is a perfect example of how cool a colored denim jacket can be.

I advise wearing this cropped jacket in lieu of a top.

I expect this one to be all over my Instagram feed soon.

This color is more versatile than you’d think.

Staud gets it right every single time.

I’m not sure how this is still in stock.

The blazer collar and puffed sleeves on this jacket make it feel a bit ’80s, which makes so much sense in 2021 (because as you know, all things ’80s are still trending).

I bet you don’t already own a denim jacket like this.

This is pure compliment bait.

I love an affordable collab.

Perfectly cropped and boxy.

This fancy Levi’s x Miu Miu jacket is adorned with both jewels and a pretty lace collar. It’s a statement piece that can also be worn casually.

The showstopper.

It’s the elastic waistband for me.

I’m positive this is going to be an It item for fall.

This beauty comes in cream too.

Well this is pretty.

The easiest way to make a basic denim jacket feel fresh these days is to pair it with more denim.

I’m currently daydreaming about all the ways to wear this.

So special.

This looks so good with blue denim.

The ruffles on this are subtle and cool.

You might initially think to wear this extra oversized option with something slim (like skinny jeans or a bodycon dress), but fashion people are wearing them with equally baggy pieces.

The drawstring at the bottom of this one is an inspired touch.

This under-$100 option is so cool.

You could also wear this unbuttoned with a tank underneath.

Timeless.

Next up, 11 outfits fashion people will wear with classic outfits this fall.

This makes me smile.