Panache Offblast

Today, I’m showing off an updated, modern take on the double denim look, complete with an open back. Cause it’s all about that party in the back, am I right or am I right?

Pulling off denim on denim can seem a bit intimidating, but I promise it doesn’t have to be. The key is balance, as with most outfits. Break up an all-over denim look with a staple like a white T-shirt, if your choice of denim is a jacket paired with jeans, or give it a colorful spin with bright accessories and shoes, as seen in my ensemble. You can also try pairing a lighter wash denim top with a darker bottom (also what I opted for), or look for denim pieces with fun details like embellishments, fringe, or patches.

When I initially saw this top, I thought it was another plain ol’ denim button-down — until I turned it around, saw the open back, and fell in love. I love details like this, as they add an exciting surprise to an otherwise simple look. I’ll admit it was somewhat of a challenge figuring out what bottom to pair it with, until I realized I’ve never tried a double-denim look and decided to go for it.

I knew I wanted to pair the light wash button-down with darker jeans, but I didn’t want to go too dark, so I went in between with my favorite pair of high-waisted, distressed denim. These are honestly the most comfortable pair of denim I own, and they were $25 from Forever 21. STEAL.

Since the weather was gorgeous in Minneapolis last weekend, I was able to break out my orange wooden-heel sandals which I’m obsessed with and haven’t worn in forev. They look perfect with the necklace I’m wearing, too, which is a handmade piece my mom gifted me while visiting Dubai. I finished off the look with blue round-frame shades and a Betsey Johnson crossbody bag.

See, the double denim look doesn’t have to be scary. Here are a few simple — yet key — do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

DO: Play with colors

If you’re new to the double denim trend, a great way to start is by pairing different shades of denim together, like white jeans with a blue denim jacket, or black jeans and a chambray shirt. You can’t go wrong this way, and you’ll be able to ease into a double denim ensemble in blue in no time.

DON’T: Wear denim accessories

Just don’t. FUGLY.

DO: Dress up your double denim

Don’t be afraid to amp up your outfit with luxe-looking items like statement heels, colorful necklaces, and bold makeup.

DON’T: Be matchy-matchy

Remember my mentioning of balance? You want to make sure you wear a denim outfit that has different weights or washes to avoid looking too matchy-matchy. We’re not Brit & JT, or Chuck Norris a la Invasion USA, k.

— Shop my favorite open back denim pieces —

CHEAP MONDAY // JOA // ASOS // ASOS
ASOS // ASOS // RIVER ISLAND // CHEAP MONDAY