Checking the basics of your list is SO important. Having those wardrobe basics are what make it easy to get dressed every day…they’re the foundation of your wardrobe! One of the must-have jackets on your list should be a denim jacket! If you’re in the market, I’m sharing everything you need to know about how to find the perfect denim jacket for a stylish woman over 40 (that’s YOU!). If you still need your wardrobe basics checklists, subscribe to the newsletter here.
#1 | Sleeve Length
The sleeve length for a denim jacket is the same as the sleeve length for any other jacket. I prefer a jacket to hit between my wrist bone and thumb joint. This allows you to roll it up or cuff the sleeves. Remember, never underestimate the power of a good tailor. If you find the perfect denim jacket that fits everywhere but the sleeve length…you can always get that small detailed tailored!
#2 | Hemline
The hemline is a little tricky because it depends on your body type and style. You can go with a more oversized, long boyfriend style denim jacket, cropped denim jacket, or a classic denim jacket.
1) For an oversized fit, I suggest looking for something that hits just below the crotch (for lack of a better word).
2) For a cropped fit, look for a jacket that’s cropped and hits above the hip.
3) For a more classic fit, look for a jacket that hits between the hip bone and crotch.
#3 | Shoulders
First, make sure you can raise your arms above your head…if you can’t, size up! The jacket I’m wearing above runs small and narrow through the shoulders so definitely size up. The shoulder seam on the jacket should sit on top of your shoulder and not go past the shoulder bone.
Also, remember that you’ll want to choose a jacket that layers well. If you want to wear a thick sweater under your jacket, you probably want to size up. You most likely won’t button up your denim jacket, so if it doesn’t button but still fits everywhere else, don’t worry about it!
#4 | Wash
The wash you want is completely up to you! The most classic option is dark wash. But you could go with light, medium, black or white. Choose a wash that seamlessly works with the rest of your wardrobe! I also own this more traditional denim jacket by Frame and love the wash!
#5 | Fabric
If you want the jacket to last a long time (which I think we all do!) find heavier, sturdy denim with little to no stretch.
#6 | Details
If you have your basic denim jacket already, you might want something that’s a bit more fun! The Retrofete jacket I’m wearing is definitely not a traditional, classic option. It has distressing and puffed sleeves. Small details like that can make a denim jacket stand out. So if you’re ready for something with an interesting detail, choose a jacket that fits into your style…whether that’s puff sleeves, distressing, embellishments, shearling-lined, or whatever!
More Wardrobe Basics You Need To Know About!
The Fundamentals of The Classic Black Blazer
Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Moto Jacket For You
How To Find The Perfect White Tee
Are You Wearing The Most Flattering Jeans? Finding The Right Jeans For You
Midi Skirts Over 40
Have you found a classic denim jacket you love?? Please share it in the comments!
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Thank you for this. I might add that buying petite if you are shorter helps with the length issue. Over a dress I prefer a cropped jacket ( it just hits me in a better place) with pants the hip length is better. Can you recommend a cropped jacket, they are challenging to find.
Hi Ally! Here are a few cropped options! Erin xo
https://rstyle.me/+594hqjNxRwCc3CvWJs6MmQ
https://rstyle.me/+ViQJQassmu3D225FKEJ4xg
https://rstyle.me/+SurBLlHOh3ptwIuesTJ_tg
I love this puff sleeve denim jacket….I just need to find one at a (much) lower price!
Hi Sarah! Here are a couple of less expensive options. One has understated puff shoulders, the other is more dramatic. Erin xo
https://rstyle.me/+JuUawhx0ZDA5x8DGwe6cJw
https://rstyle.me/+QzPHBM5dxw0Lu7S9XV4_Bg
Erin,
Thank you so much. I enjoy watching you in YouTube. I am a late bloomer. I am learning so much from Watching you although we have a big age gap. I am 64 year old woman who was so busy being a nurse. It is only now, better late than never that I am more focus on myself. Watching you giving tips makes a big difference in how I dress up now. I recently lost lots of weight from bariatric surgery. Now I can restart taking charge of how to dress properly for my age and enjoy buying clothes. Kudos to you my new friend. Good luck and praying for your good health and continuing your successful endeavors. Take care.
Respectfully,
Percy
Congrats on your weight loss, Percy! And congrats on focusing on yourself! YOU are worth it! I am glad I can help in some small way… Erin xo
One more jean jacket, from Gap, wore it to shreds! Years ago. Great wash and fit.????
I love jean jackets and the less expensive the better. My favorite jean jacket is from Target and was made by Merona. I haven’t found another like it no matter what the price. A woman once complimented the lines of this jacket. The wash is perfect also, not too light and not too dark. I also have a white I adore that is a Ralph Lauren I bought years ago that has the tan stitching throughout. Both hit slightly above the hip.Thank you for the jean jacket tips.????