For decades, the denim shirt has brought with it an endlessly relaxed look to accompany pretty much any occasion – not least being the perfect finish for a feminine summer look. Whether you throw a denim shirt over a dress or take a more tailored route, there are many types, fits and styles there for the taking. But let me unravel the mystery behind the ‘classic denim shirt’ the garment that has imprinted its unique style on the root of all denim shirts that have followed. 

The first step to finding the perfect denim shirt is identifying the colour. There are updates to the classic denim shirt appearing every season; a re-make is never far around the corner. I ask myself, how has denim acquired the huge trade mark that it is today? Finding where it all began will take you right back to the birth of the denim community.

The first outburst of denim was during the 1950s when it was popularised as a symbol of youth and rebellion to such an extent that it was banned from theatres, restaurants and schools. This has left a huge and lasting imprint on the denim community as even today it is still associated with acts of rebellion – though not to the extent of the 1950s, thank goodness.

By the 1970s, denim had staked its claim on the US fashion world and its reign of supremacy in our wardrobes began. 

In 1965, before this outrage against the cool reputation of denim, a retailer washed their denim to create a worn, used effect. This was the first retail store to create this look and it is still very much alive today. Changing the style of your denim shirt is extremely simple and effective; while some may prefer the classic look there is always an alternative for eager denim enthusiasts.

Changing the theme of your denim shirt is possible in four easy steps:

Step 1- Find your denim shirt in any colour, fit or style: this is your blank canvas so start drawing.

Step 2- Design, design, design and experiment to your heart’s content with colour and fade. Will you follow the edgy look supporting the rebellious stage or perhaps your style will portray an update to the classic shirt?

Step 3- Customise your denim. Once you start editing your shirt it will simply flow with what is your next move. Let your hands guide you and don’t strain your brain, allow it to unravel naturally.

Step 4- Ensure all loose ends are secure and unleash it on the world with confidence. If the classic denim shirt is far too simple to sit comfortably in your wardrobe, do not search endlessly to find the one that suits you; be creative.

Jessica’s top tip: The ‘classic denim shirt’ is simple yet stylish and always right on trend. There will never be a time again where it is shunned or portrayed as a rebellious outrage. Be as daring and care-free as you like and create a new path for all denim shirts. The classic denim shirt will always be simply a classic and doesn’t need any fancy frills or prints, just a mid wash blue and a faded effect (but only slightly) is all you need to pull off the ‘classic denim shirt’.