Wearing Jeans to the Office

Denim is increasingly common in the workplace, but you can’t just slap on a pair of torn-up jeans and call it a day. If you want to get by in the office with your reputation—and potential promotion—intact, there are rules to abide by; that's why we rounded up a few simple tips to prime you on how to approach 9-to-5 denim the smart way.

Check out our seven tips below if you’re thinking of keeping it more casual at the office in a pair of jeans.

1. Opt for darker washes.

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It’s just a fact: Darker jeans are more sophisticated than their lighter counterparts. Pale jeans can come off as overly-casual; if you’re wearing lighter-colored shirts, then dark denim can contrast nicely and make you look more refined.

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2. Pair your jeans with more formal shoes.

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A good way to fool any manager into giving you a pass on the jeans is to refine your look in little ways—and your shoes are the best place to start. Instead of opting for the standard sneaker you’d expect to see with a pair of jeans, choose a more sophisticated loafer or dress shoe.

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3. Tuck in a crisp, collared shirt.

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We know it’s a little old-school, but if you want to wear jeans to work, a simple collared shirt that’s actually tucked in will do you wonders. It conveys that you give a damn about your appearance and want to come off put-together.

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4. Formalize your accessorizing.

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You’re not going for evening-wear when you put on a good pair of jeans, but you sure can accessorize like you are. The right accents can take your look from “a guy in jeans” to “that guy in those jeans.” Just keep your accessories tasteful and don’t slap on too many.

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5. Wear simple—but tasteful—outerwear.

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You might forget to sync up your outerwear to the jeans you’re wearing. Don’t. Keep in mind that when you wear jeans to work, each piece you put on should be considered, and your outerwear is just as important as anything else. Choose simple, tasteful jackets and coats that give a hint of subtle sophistication when the weather turns.

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6. Wear your perfect fit.

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In the office—or out, really—your jeans should look like they belong on your body. A skinnier frame deserves skinny jeans; a thicker pair of legs look just right in a straight leg. You want the most flattering fit you can find so that you always look stylish and calculated, especially in the office.

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7. Ditch your shirts with enormous logos.

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