THE JEANIUS Who says you can’t dress up in denim? Not us
This month is the big shiny festive one rammed with parties. But that doesn’t mean you have to roll out a dress. Amy Bannerman shares her after-dark denim rules…
There are two different types of evening jeans: the ones with pearls and embellishment (see Topshop) OR full-on metallic Bowie-style babies (see Replay on the right). The trick is to balance them out. If you’re wearing the latter, keep the top simple. If the jeans are the subtler version (like mine), you can afford to go more sweetie-wrapper with your top. NB For evening denim, the jacket is key. Think mannish tux styles, as the tailoring gives the outfit structure and works its magic as an instant smartener to anything, even pyjamas (Christmas Day tip). See French Connection and Reiss for my faves.
The shape of the jeans should be anywhere between super-skinnies and slim girlfriend style. Nothing ultra baggy or skater boi. Denim is already casual, so you don’t want the shape to be relaxed too, or people will think you’re 2Pac and you’ll be asked to leave the party.
A dark, inky palette is best for after hours. Stone wash or anything with rips are a no. These should be a denim version of an evening trouser, and you wouldn’t go out in a ripped tuxedo, would you? (Please say you wouldn’t!)
We are talking about parties here, so don’t forget to sex it up. You know that age-old adage of not revealing your stems and cleavage at the same time? So wear a shirt or blouse that can be left a bit unbuttoned. A peep of bra (or no bra!) wouldn’t go amiss either. On slim-fit denim styles, you can roll up the hem to show more ankle. The trick is to roll, then mess the roll up a bit, so it looks nonchalant. Then throw on your favourite heels to take it to the partayyyy.