Combining different denim washes is a smart strategy to enhance visual interest to your outfit without needing to buy new clothes. The secret is to focus on tonal difference, fabric texture, and proportion. Begin with a foundational garment—typically your denim shirt or outerwear—that establishes the foundation. If you're wearing dark wash jeans, match them with a soft, washed-out denim layer. The juxtaposition between the two adds dimension and gives it a curated, thoughtful vibe.

Don’t combine washes that are nearly identical as they can merge into one dull hue. Instead, aim for at least two distinct tones—think medium wash with light or black with indigo. You can also experiment with textures. Raw or stonewashed denim has a unique surface quality relative to lightly worn, faded pieces, and layering these textures adds dimension. A worn-in, faded denim blazer over well-fitted dark jeans can look effortlessly cool.

When building a denim-on-denim look, consider the fit. Narrow-cut pants work best with boxy short denim tears jackets, and vice versa. This helps maintain balance and keeps the look streamlined. If you want to play it safe, ground the look with basics. A classic plain white top, minimalist low-tops, or a brown belt can anchor the ensemble and let the denim variations shine.

Add denim touches to your ensemble. A denim crossbody or cap can unify the outfit if it's in a shade that echoes your dominant denim. But use them sparingly—a single denim piece completes the look to complete the ensemble.

Belief in your look is key. Denim thrives on laid-back energy, so don't overthink it. If it resonates with your style, you’ve nailed it. Test looks under varying lighting conditions and pay attention to how the light hits each piece. Sometimes the best combinations come from experimentation, not rules|