What To Wear With Light Blue Jeans
Sophie Diego
Table of Contents
Ah, the light blue jeans fiasco. To the experienced trendsetter, it sparks inspiration and instant outfit coordination. But, to the casual dresser, it may entail some confusion and frustration.
Pairing ocean wash blues shouldn’t be a hassle-and-half. In fact, it’s one of the easiest wardrobe basics to wear. Think of it as the pastel version of your coveted black denim—free of grunge, angst, and rebellion.
The LBJ isn’t always exclusive to bright, mellowed tones. You can always pull a ‘fashion juxtaposition card’ and opt for black hues and shades. But, if you can’t imagine a single ensemble in your head, our mission is to provide you with some outfit inspo.
We’ll teach you what to wear with light blue jeans by offering up 12 different OOTD ideas. From wide-legged pants to classic cigarette-style, readers can take care knowing we’re covering all the basics.
What Are Light Blue Jeans?
Light wash jeans are bleached denim pants. They’re typically made out of cotton, which is dyed with indigo blue to attain that coveted shade. Usually, bleach is applied to help lighten the color.
LBJs come in a variety of shapes and hues. This includes the 90s classic acid wash to the iconic mom jeans. The options are endless.
History of Light Blue Jeans
So, where did the LBJ come from? In order to answer this question, we need to address the origin story of jeans itself. It all started in 1871 when a group of disgruntled Nevada miners grew tired of their thin, damage-prone work pants. A local tailor by the name of Jacob Davis was tasked to produce bottoms that can stand aggressive wear-and-tear.
His solution? A pair of riveted trousers joined with metal fasteners and rivets. Knowing that he invented something one-of-a-kind, Davis needed a patent.
He turned to Levis Strauss, a German immigrant that recently opened a store in San Francisco, to acquire money. And thus, a legendary partnership was born.
Davis moved to California to further his business. Soon enough, the wide-scale production of denim jeans began, as more and more customers sought Levis as a more durable alternative. Jeans became synonymous with the American workforce, especially miners. Over the years, they came to further symbolize counterculture and teenage rebellion.
The origins of light wash can’t be determined, as it’s usually grouped into other fast-fashion phases such as low-waist denim and JNCOs. Today, the original Levi Strauss jeans are hailed as a historical artifact in the American History Museum.
When to Wear Light Blue Jeans
While jeans were the ‘it’ uniform of the mining workforce, I think it’s safe to say that they’re no longer used for ‘rough-roading’ jobs. Over the years, the coveted pair of Levis has become intrinsic to casual dressing.
They’re your go-to pair for errands, laid-back dates, and spontaneous hang-outs. LBJs shouldn’t be worn formally, but some institutions have deemed jeans appropriate for the office, teaching jobs, and other table-desk careers.
Light blue jeans are completely seasonless. Depending on their thickness and cut, you can wear them from summer to winter.
What to Wear With Light Blue Jeans
If you clicked on this article, chances are that you have no idea what to wear with light blue jeans. Well, there’s nothing wrong in opting for the classic white tee and leather jacket combo—but I’m sure you’ve done this outfit to death. You’re here for some fresh ideas, yes?
In the following segment, we’ll share some outfits with light blue jeans. From pastel shades to going all blue, we’ll teach you some fashion yeses and no-nos when it comes to styling coordination. Let’s get started!
12 Outfit Ideas With Light Blue Jeans
Feeling blue? If so, there’s always the classic monochrome fit. Instead of opting for the ‘Canadian tuxedo’ look, this ensemble features a pastel blue blazer over top a white t-shirt. It’s a simple way to elevate a casual pair of light wash denim. To help tie the whole look together, the addition of statement earrings, ankle booties, and a matching cross-body bag is a must.
This light jeans outfit is composed of an oversized graphic tee, dad shoes, and a mini bag. Obviously, the real star of the show is the denim pants, as it features a high-rise cut with a straight-legged silhouette.
We highly suggest donning this fit if you want to elongate your figure. It also makes for a great casual ensemble if you’re hanging out with friends or hitting the grocery store.
If you’re wondering what color shirt to wear with light blue jeans, how about all of them? More specifically—we’re suggesting a fun, whimsical swirl composed of reds, pinks, and creams. This groovy outfit features a cozy-knit sweater, bell-bottom LBJs, white platform sneaks, and a matching tote bag.
It’s certainly a homage to the 60’s disco scene due to the psychedelic print and silhouette of the pants. If you really want to don that ‘Boogie Wonderland’ vibe, how about a headscarf to ‘tie’ the whole look together?
Ah, patchwork: the fashion trend that swept the TikTok nation. It’s not as popular as before, but there should be no reason why you can’t sport this fun fad today. This playful pair of pants features an asymmetrical cut of dark wash denim with light blue.
High-waisted in fit and tailored in the legs, this bright ensemble pairs well with a printed shirt. Since it’s TikTok-inspired, why not add a crochet-like crop top?
This, ladies and gentlemen, is how to wear light blue jeans in the gen z era.
Stress not, all you ripped and distressed jeans lovers; you can definitely add a hint of grunge or rebelliousness to your LBJs.
If your heart is still yearning for the ’90s and all the fashion choices that came with it, a slightly ripped pair of light blue jeans is a must on your trip down memory lane.
As a clash of styles that assembles into an outfit, this pair of jeans can be worn with a lilac turtleneck and a patterned sweater-vest for a fit that absolutely oozes turn-of-the-century vibes.
The best way to address the ‘what to wear with light blue jeans’ query is to play off its delicate hues and tones. Case in point, this outfit enhances the ‘demure and dainty’ nature of LBJs by pairing it with a peasant top.
Poofy, frilly, and floral in print, this is considered a more romantic take on casual dressing. Of course, you can always downplay the look by adding Converses, but a set of stilettos can never go wrong.
The French tuck isn’t for everyone. In fact, oversized silhouettes can often lead to unflattering bunching if not stuffed in properly. If you don’t want to wear a crop top, you can always opt to tie the end pieces of your blouse to create an entirely different look.
In this ensemble, the coveted pair of high-waist jeans are combined with a puffy printed blouse, suede shoes, and a matching bag. It’s a classic summer look, one that screams ‘I went to Barcelona’ on vacation.
Speaking of fads, the ‘modern Renaissance’ phase doesn’t seem to be ending anytime soon. Bustiers and corsets are all the rage—and for good reason. They do wonders in slimming down your figure while lifting up ‘the girls.’
Due to its fitted structure, most trendsetters pair them with high-waisted jeans. If you’re not keen on showing too much skin, you can always opt for those super-cropped sweater tops for extra coverage.
The quickest answer to the ‘what to wear with light blue jeans question’ will always be a white tee. It’s a wardrobe basic, but it desperately needs some re-inventing. If you can afford to shed some skin, we suggest opting for a basic tank top.
For us, it’s all about tailoring—as we recommend finding a pair of LBJs that are fitted to your waist and butt. To help elevate the look, a set of heeled sandals and a matching purse are a must.
If you’re wondering what to wear with light blue jeans that are not fitted, we suggest giving this ensemble a try. This outfit features a pair of loose LBJs with white sneakers, an oversized flannel button-down, and a cropped hoodie.
It’s streetwear-chic and certainly appropriate to wear during hangouts and casual dates. We suggest topping off the look with a matching tote bag and a chunky beanie.
Not a fan of patchwork? How about print instead? This stunning set of light wash jeans features hearts written in bleach. It’s a romantic, cute, and playful transformation that you can easily apply to an old, worn-out pair.
In terms of styling ideas, we suggest keeping things light with a cream-colored sweater. You’re free to DIY your own bottoms, but we found these on The Custom Movement for $50.
Need something more office-appropriate? No worries; we haven’t forgotten about you in our ‘what to wear with light blue jeans’ lineup. This sophisticated outfit features a loose button-up blouse with cigarette jeans.
Distressed denim is usually a no-no in the workforce, but you can probably get away with it by pairing cap-toe stilettos.
What Type of Light Blue Jeans Can You Get?
The term ‘light blue jeans,’ is specific enough already—but if you ask a veteran trendsetter, they’ll ask you what cut, style, and wash. Some pants come in varying degrees of lightness, so it’s important that you specify what look you’re going for.
It’s also crucial to consider additional attributes, such as distressing, bleaching techniques, and any sort of print. You’ve probably already noticed that some options come with ripped leg holes, acid wash, and patterns.
Of course, in order to fully answer the ‘what to wear with light blue jeans’ question is to address the cut. There are hundreds of styles to choose from, such as the mom jeans, the boyfriend jeans, the classic 90’s JNCOs, or the popular high-rise.
If you want to find a flattering pair, you’ll need to consider your body shape, as some pants can look unflattering for specific figures.
How to Choose The Best Light Blue Jeans
I know; shopping for jeans is nobody’s favorite pastime. Opting to go online isn’t the best alternative either, as you’re stripped of fitting rooms. If you’re having a tough time finding your perfect pair, there are a few factors to look out for. This includes looking at price, quality, and material.
The best blue jeans should offer a considerable degree of stretch. You should be able to bend down, squat, and sit comfortably in your pair of Levis.
To avoid embarrassing crotch rips, we suggest opting for a blend of cotton and elastane. You should generally avoid 100% cotton pants, as they’re quite strict in flexibility and movement.
Thinly-constructed jeans are an absolute no-no. A good pair of denim should be durable and resistant and not show signs of distress after a few uses. You should stay away from $20 to $30 pants sold at fast-fashion retailers.
Instead, we suggest shopping at reputable jean companies such as Levis, Reformation, and Everlane. Yes, they’re expensive—but it’s an investment worth making.
How to Style Light Blue Jeans
Can’t find any common themes in our ‘what to wear with light blue jeans’ lineup? Don’t worry; we’ll break things down in a more straightforward format. Below, we’ll feature some general styling tips on how to wear LBJs properly:
- Play with different tones of blue: LBJs shine when paired with matching hues of blue. We suggest going for lighter or darker options if you’re in the mood to go full monochrome.
- The coveted button-up: as you’ve probably already noticed, collared shirts go intrinsically well with light blue jeans. It’s the look to pull off if you want to look accomplished and smart—just don’t forget to do a French tuck to help define your waist.
- Juxtapose baggy silhouettes with tight-fitting garments: The most popular style of LBJ is the high-waisted cut with cigarette-style legs. You’re free to wear a slim-fitted top, but why not play around with oversized sweaters or cardigans? In our opinion, it helps to balance out your proportions.
- Heels or sneakers? Pick your poison: Light blue jeans can be easily dressed up or down depending on your shoe of choice.
Fashion Tips to Avoid With Light Blue Jeans
Consider yourself versed in the ‘what to wear with light blue jeans’ debate. Since we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to address some styling no-nos.
You’d be surprised by the number of fashion sins committed by trendsetters of yesteryear—but hey, we can always learn from their mistakes. We’ll share some advice to avoid when wearing light blue jeans.
- The overtly ripped jean: we’re distressed at the amount of distressing done to the classic pair of Levis. Yes, it’s acceptable to fashion some rips and dips—but if you can see most of your leg, it’s game over.
- Corseted fronts and sides: Let’s leave the corset trend to the tops. We don’t need extra attention to the crotch or waist area. Plus, isn’t it super-uncomfortable to wear lace-up chains for an extended amount of time?
- Super skinny jeans: they were the highlight of the 2010s, but it’s time to put this fad to rest. I don’t know about you, but I don’t miss the days of limited blood circulation in my legs.
- Jeggings: they were tacky then and tacky now. A+ for effort on the fake, acid wash print, though.
- Low-waisted denim: They’re coming back thanks to the Y2K trend—but I have a good feeling they won’t last for long in the spotlight. Sitting or bending down has never felt more like a breach of security.
How to Take Care of Light Blue Jeans
If you commonly throw your light blue jeans in hot water and in the dryer—stop, pause, and reassess your life. You’re butchering your LBJs, and soon enough, you’ll end up needing a new pair.
For those who answered the ‘what to wear with light blue jeans’ query, it’s time to address how to properly care for your coveted blues.
- Don’t toss them in the daily wash: the best way to preserve jeans is to limit their laundry cycle. Of course, this tip doesn’t apply to pants covered in stains.
- Wash in cold water: You don’t want your light blues to fade into white. Hot water is usually the culprit for color-bleeding.
- DO NOT PUT THEM IN THE DRYER: for the love of God, never put your light blue jeans in the tumbler. If you do, you run the high risk of shrinking them. Instead, we suggest letting them air-dry on a clothes hanger.
- Stay away from bleach: this tip is a bit self-explanatory, as you don’t want to change the color of your jeans. But, if you do want to make things lighter, we suggest a bleach bath instead of chucking them into the laundry.
Best Places to Buy Light Blue Jeans
So, you know what to wear with light blue jeans—but do you know where to buy them? If you’re just getting started with your search, we’ll feature some reputable stores to support:
- Levis
- Reformation
- Everlane
- Wranglers
- Madewell
- AGOLDE
Final Thoughts
It doesn’t matter if you’re a Levi lover or have a weakness for Wranglers. We all need a pair of light blues. They’re an important wardrobe staple, as they can be dressed up or down depending on the situation.
There are hundreds of popular styles to choose from—and it’s up to you to decide on what cut and wash look flattering on your body shape.
From high-waisted pants and bell-bottom beauties, we’ve provided you with an arsenal of ideas of what to wear with light blue jeans. Happy styling!
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