'Jeans and a nice top': 10 outfits to inspire you

Picture this - it’s Friday night, and you’ve spent all day working, counting down the minutes till 5 o’clock because you’ve got a dinner date with the gals that’s been planned for well over a month. You open your wardrobe for something to wear, but alas, there isn’t a single item of clothing you’d put near your body, you revert to the girl's group chat to see what everyone else is planning on. Within moments three of your pals respond with a simple "jeans and a nice top." Nothing more, nothing less. Simple, elegant and achievable. 

If you’ve ever been in the previously stated predicament (don’t lie, we all have) then you know all too well that said jeans and a cute top are harder to style than you might think. Fear not, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to. 

© Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin

Are "Jeans and a Nice Top" in for 2024?

Rather a silly question because jeans and a nice top are forever and always on trend. Over the last few years, baggier silhouettes have been championing the streetwear scene, however, skinny styles and balloon cuts have been making a comeback. 

Scroll on for 10 ways to elevate your "jeans and a nice top" ensemble, inspired by those most stylish....

What kind of tops go well with jeans?

How long is a piece of string?! The beauty of a great pair of jeans is that they team well with almost anything - they don't compete for attention when it comes to puff sleeves, rhinestones or other fancier fair, but are also the perfect teammate for something simpler like a crop top or sharp shirt. 

With a biker jacket:

© BG020/Bauer-Griffin

If your destination of choice is somewhere cool and casual, then you can absolutely get away with a well-fitting pair of jeans, a plain tee and a funky biker jacket. Kendall Jenner proved that pairing the ensemble with a pair of sunglasses, your go-to side bag and black boots elevates the look into ‘It’ girl territory. 

MORE: 9 items you need to get the 'Quiet Luxury' look

RELATED: The best street style outfits at New York Fashion Week SS25

With a white shirt:

© Gotham

It kind of goes without saying that adding a oversized white button down to basically any look instantly makes it chic. I love how Sofia chose to sport a pair of baggy blue jeans, with a loose white shirt and Chanel two-tone pumps. I love the proportions on this look.

With a bold boot:

© MEGA

Adding a pop of colour or pattern to your jeans and top combo can turn it from something traditionally boring into something tastefully and thoughtfully styled. Emily Ratajkowski chose to style a simple black baby tee and blue jeans with a pair of bold-coloured boots, instantly making the outfit look intentional and ready for a date night.

With a blazer:

© MEGA

If in doubt add a blazer. The simple addition of a structured blazer will make your jeans and top outfit appropriate for any occasion as well as adding a much-needed layer of warmth. Bella Hadid recently styled a pair of blue skinny jeans with a black blazer, a bold belt, a v-neck blue top with denim accents, a pair of chunky gold hoop earrings, black sunglasses and a chain shoulder bag. 

With a pair of oversized earrings:

© Edward Berthelot

If you’ve got the base of your outfit down-packed but feel it’s lacking a little something something, then a bold earring is your BFF. The bigger and sparklier the better.

With a micro bag and heels...

© Edward Berthelot

Although I stipulated that tiny bags are 'out' for 2024, I can’t help but feel that when paired with a denim and chic top look like these ones Darja Barannik has so perfectly styled, they look cuter than ever. Adding a micro bag to any outfit can instantly turn it into a going-out ensemble because where else would you take such an impractical bag? I also think that the key to this outfit looking so chic is the choice of jeans. When perfectly baggy they offer a modern contrast against the luxe element of a stiletto, the ‘fit looks put together and sexy. 

Turn the top into a dress:

© The Hapa Blonde

Technically this doesn't sit within the jeans and a cute top sphere, but this look is just too good not to include. Rita Ora paired her classic blue jeans with a lace-trimmed slip dress and a chunky cropped jacket. I love the idea of wearing dresses over jeans or trousers because it opens up your wardrobe options and gives you a whole new set of ingredients to work with. 

With a bomber jacket and loafers:

© Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin

Now that we’re smack bang in the middle of the cold season, it's more essential than ever to keep cosy. I love how Elsa Hosk styled her blue jeans and simple top combo, adding a cosy puffer jacket and a pair of sturdy loafers. If you’re in need of an extra layer, pop a pair of tights under your jeans. 

With oversized faux-fur:

© Streetstyleshooters

One of the biggest trends right now is obnoxiously large, oversized faux-fur jackets, so why not lean right in and spice up your simple ensemble with a larger-than-life layer? Dua Lipa perfectly proves that even a subtle pair of jeans and a top can be elevated into a luxury look with the right styling choices. I love how Dua opted for patent boots and a handbag in the same red wine hue. 

Double Denim:

© Edward Berthelot

Coined the Canadian Tuxedo, double denim is a Y2K trend that never fails to serve. If you’re stuck for ideas on what to wear, just think to yourself, "add more denim." In my personal opinion, I don’t feel like the types of denim even have to match in texture or colour, in fact, the more mismatched the better as then it looks intentional. 

How do you look elegant and classy in jeans?

If elegance is the name of the game, look for darker washes and prioritise the perfect fit. Anything that fits your body like a glove will instantly boost an ensemble (don't be afraid to explore tailoring options too). Also, consider how the line of your jeans works with the line of your body - anything streamlined will look a touch more expensive than baggier, grungier jeans (which we also adore.)

Are jeans and a nice top business casual?

Ah, business casual, one of the most confusing dress codes around. Seemingly leaning towards the more rigid professional style of things, I say don't underestimate the effect that working from home has had on the population's mindset when it comes to workwear. Offices have changed, rules have relaxed and jeans are more than likely appropriate. 

© Edward Berthelot

How to wear a blouse with jeans?

Think about balancing your proportions, big baggy jeans for example would look wonderful with an itsy-bitsy blouse, and vice versa. Don't disregard black or white jeans as they're a great way to look a touch more put together than traditional blue denim allows. And I know that tucking things in is a point of contention these days, but if it makes you feel more comfortable, then do it. 

How we chose the pieces:

Aesthetic: We combed through all the best internet shopping sites, picking the best bits to make your 'jeans and nice top' outfits sing. 

Price: We have tried to keep pieces in this edit affordable without compromising on style. 

Why you should trust me:

I am Hello! Fashion’s Fashion Features Writer. With a love for all things fashion (the quirkier the better), I can usually be found playing dress-up in my own wardrobe, watching Gilmore Girls for the 8th time or finding new outfit inspo and DIY musts on TikTok, nothing in my closet is safe from a safety-pin bow embellishment. I have been in the styling world for almost 5 years now, specialising in editorial features, luxury campaigns and music videos. As for the world of magazines, I have worked for various digital and print publications around the world, focusing on fashion. Basically, fashion is my bread and butter.