How to wear double denim without looking like Britney Spears in the 90s

17 May 2016
By Fashion Quarterly

Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake in denim at the American Music Awards in 2001

First things first, if you aren’t dating Justin Timberlake that’s a great start.

Denim-on-denim, or a Canadian tuxedo as your dad might call it, is easy to pull off when you know how. It’s a look loved by Euro street style fanatics and 90s children alike, and can be a cool and creative addition to your list of go-to ensembles if you adhere to the following rules:

1. Balance your proportions.
If you’re opting for flares, you 70s love child you, structure your top half – oversized in this instance is not your friend. A tailored denim shirt that balances your shoulders with your hips, is your best bet. Skinny jeans? Go with the flow and try a top that can be knotted or tucked in at the waist.

2. Dark is slimming.
That’s it. No really, that’s the rule.

3. Mix and match different washes.
We’re not channeling Jenny from the Block so mismatching lighter denim with darker pieces keeps the look modern and interesting.

4. Accessorise with a bold lipstick and statement jewellery.
Nothing says chic like the sparkle of a bold embellished necklace or gold choker with denim. When adding a bold lip, consider M.A.C’s orange-based cult lipstick Lady Danger – it works beautifully with denimy blues.

5. Shoes maketh the outfit.
Find a fresh pair of white leather kicks to make your outfit say casual weekend cool. Step it up in a pair of heels to take the look out at night.

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