While we're big proponents of the "don't mess with a good thing" mantra when it comes to classic staples, we must confess to loving the denim revolution happening right now. From playful prints and cropped silhouettes to an eye-popping array of colors, the new world of jeans has us seriously doubting we'll ever don a skirt again. But, it also presents a tiny style conundrum — how exactly do you make those name-your-color jeans work as easily as your reliable dark-rinse pairs?
By now, you know we never pose a question we can't answer — so we've worked out three effortlessly chic ensembles to help you take pastel denim to the office, out on the town, and into the weekend. Now, all you need to do is spin the color wheel.
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For work, play down the ultra-girly nature of the pastel hue by pairing it with bold black-and-white separates. A long, streamlined blazer adds a cool edge, while a crisp white blouse and timeless carryall keep the look serious enough for work. Finish it off with a statement cuff and a patterned pump.
Citizens of Humanity Racer Low-Rise Stretch-Twill Skinny Jeans, $209, available at Net-A-Porter; Topshop Crepe Jacket By Boutique, $180, available at Topshop; Reiss 1971 Audrey Long Back Shirt, $150, available at Reiss; Ben-Amun Foiled Gold Cuff, $345, available at Charm & Chain; Olivia & Joy Dynamo Bowler Satchel, $98, available at Macy's; Delman Dream Peep Toe Pumps, $448, available at Bloomingdale's.
A casual weekend outing is the perfect time to experiment with trickier trends — like a monochromatic look. For this outfit, we paired the blush pink jeans with a rose-colored sweater, but incorporated a chambray shirt and touches of leather and suede to break up the pink-on-pink feel. A slightly nautical necklace adds just enough masculine flair to balance the look.
Citizens of Humanity Racer Low-Rise Stretch-Twill Skinny Jeans, $209, available at Net-A-Porter; Accessorize Plaited Cotton Torq, $16, available at Accessorize; Dolce Vita Hattie Perforated Suede Ankle Boot, $189, available at Urban Outfitters; Uniqlo Color Mixed Crew Neck Sweater, $29.90, available at Uniqlo; Forever 21 Woven Shoulder Bag, $29.80, available at Forever 21; Delia's Lightweight Denim Shirt, $39.50, available at Delia's.
Think you can't do pastel denim for a night out? Think again. Paired with a rich navy top, metallic accessories, and a punchy lime clutch, these Pepto-hued skinnies feel just as classy as your go-to black pants. A fun fuchsia lip guarantees that you mean business — the business of looking fly, that is.
Milani Color Perfect Lipstick, $4.49, available at Target; J.Crew Iridescent Earrings, $58, available at J.Crew; BCBG Max Azria Jett Asymmetrical Baguette Clutch, $138, available at BCBG; French Connection Katherine Plains Tie Neck Top, $98, available at French Connection; Citizens of Humanity Racer Low-Rise Stretch-Twill Skinny Jeans, $209, available at Net-A-Porter; Via Spiga Rochelle Pump, $225, available at Nordstrom.