What to Wear on Black Jeans

A little over a decade ago, I deemed myself a denim aficionado. I don’t use that term lightly; I feel knowledgeable and am enthusiastic about jeans. And while my heart will always go toward a blue jean, there will always be at least one black pair in my wardrobe (ok, two) because the options for what to wear on black jeans are limitless!

What to Wear on Black Jeans

The thing I love most about black jeans is their versatility. Casual with flip flops to hang out with friends? No problem. Dress up with my favorite Sarah Flint shoes for a business meeting or a night out? Absolutely! I mean – you can’t beat that.

And more than anything else, black jeans are an absolute must for me when traveling. Black denim works for everyday wear, an easy dress up pant, and a great item that doesn’t show dirt or wear easily. WINNING.

So when it comes to what to wear on black jeans, the question is what can’t you wear with black jeans? Or, rather, the answer is EVERYTHING!

Besides their versatility, black jeans are the most flattering color on any shape. Black is slimming; it’s complimentary to all skin tones and shapes; and it goes with everything. To illustrate my point, there are 20 outfits here with black jeans – everything from a chambray shirt and Birkenstocks to suede pumps and a button down.

You’ll note (by about picture 3 😜) that I opt for skinny jeans and usually ankle length black jeans. I will forever stand on the hill that says you should dress for your body first, not for trends.

My body shape for example is curvy and my height is in my torso, so my legs aren’t long. Standard denim usually gathers a bit around my ankles with shoes with lower than a 3″ heel. Since I don’t wear heels a whole heck of a lot, this is basically all the time.A skinny jeans silhouette, hugs my curves and prevents lots of gathering around my feet. I also find them easier to cuff or hem without changing the general feel of the pant.

And unlike blue jeans, hemming a black pair of jeans doesn’t make them look weird because the black material and black thread basically all looks the same!!

I also only opt for mid-rise and high-rise pants. With that higher waistline, it gives the illusion of longer legs. I have to try on each and every pair, however, because of my long torso. The distance between my inseam and my waist isn’t the norm for women’s jeans, so some pairs just hit me at funny places – too high or too low.

And while we’re on the topic, all of these things together are not always easy to find. It’s one of the reasons I so much prefer shopping for denim in-store than ordering pairs online.

If you don’t like traditional denim, all of these outfits work with a pair of black leggings or ponte pants as well. I’m a proponent of skinny or straight cuts over flare or boot cuts in terms of versatility (see above), but we’re all different (also see above!), so you do you! If you like fitted cuts, see more inspiration on what shoes to wear with skinny jeans.

And just on the topic of color combinations, you can try any of these ideas in a wide leg black pants outfit too.

What to Wear with Black Jeans

• tank tops (loose or fitted)
• tees (loose or fitted)
• sweaters
• cardigans
• leather jackets
• denim jackets
• belts
• boots
• flats
• sandals
• heels

How to Style Black Jeans

When it comes to styling black denim, there really is no wrong answer. I know that sounds cliche, but I feel as though I’ve tried all sorts of combinations and the colors and mixes of silhouettes just works. If your black jeans fit you well, then any ensemble will work.

Black Jeans with a TShirt

If you’re ever in doubt, a tee with your black jeans is a classic ‘uniform.’ I’ve worn this combination with a leather jacket, with a blazer, and with a denim jacket. My favorite tees right now are this vneck (definitely size up at least one size for a comfortable fit) and this crew neck tee

Black Jeans with Blue Denim

Whether it’s something like this black jeans with blue jean jacket outfit, layered over just a tee or something like monochrome black outfits with a chambray shirt in this Birkenstock sandals outfit, blue denim and black denim are a dreamy pair.

When it comes to what to pack when I’m traveling, black jeans are always included. They’re in my weekend packing list, my Ireland packing list (for a much lengthier trip), and my Italy packing list as well.

Get layering inspiration in these posts on how to wear a shawl and how to wear a poncho.

Are Black Jeans Business Casual?

Absolutely. A dark wash of black jeans that fits nicely can be part of your business casual look. Wearing them with a tailored upper half and a good pair of shoes (doesn’t have to be heels) are all you need.

Black Jeans with a Button Down Top

I think I’ve decided there’s no way a button down can’t elevate an outfit one way or another. More tailor options are obviously more professional looking, but even an oversized and/or patterned option work just a well.

Black Jeans & Work-Appropriate Shoes

Alternatively, you can elevate your shoes to really make a pair of black jeans meet your needs for a business casual look. This brand makes my favorite pumps (of varying heights) as well as some lovely flats (use code W20SJ25 for 20% off your first order).

I’m also a HUGE fan of wearing black boots or flats with black jeans outfits. Chelsea boots with skinny/cropped jeans always works!

For more ideas: Blazer to Wear with Black Jeans