Ask any of my friends, and they'll tell you I pretty much live in black jeans. Try as I might, they just always become my fallback. Not quite as casual as blue denim, but a little more relaxed than tailored trousers, I swear by black denim as one of the most versatile pieces you can have in your wardrobe. Dress it down with sneakers and a t-shirt, style it for the evening with a great top and heel—the options are really endless.
In my opinion, a key part of its versatility is the number of colours it works well with. I'd argue it has even more options than blue denim, especially given how many different washes of black jeans you have to choose from, spanning lighter, grey-toned versions and solid black options.
But not everyone agrees with me. In fact, some people even think black jeans look 'dated' and have relegated them to the back of their wardrobe, with more 'modern' denim colour trends taking over instead. The key, though, is finding the best colours to pair with your black jeans. Lighter washes tend to pair better with earthy tones, while solid black can really let brighter colours like reds or greens pop. And then there's the old faithful: crisp white, which will always serve you well and, when paired with black denim of any shade, create an outfit that is just so effortlessly cool.
Below, discover my edit of the best colours to match with your black denim this year.
The Best Colours to Wear With Black Jeans in 2025:
1. Bright Red
Style Notes: A bright red is so cherry for cold weather wear, and really contrasts well with black jeans. Opt for a more solid black denim rather than a light wash to really let the red shine.
Shop the Colour:
In case you haven't heard, Topshop is back.
This cardigan is so versatile.
A red Mary Jane is a true classic.
This top would really elevate your black denim.
Shop the Jeans:
Obsessed with the fit of these.
2. Brown
Style Notes: It may be surprising, but brown and black really are a good match. The key is to find matching tones. If you've got a solid black, you can play with warmer brown shades. If your denim has grey undertones, you'll want to match that with softer, faded shades.
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This neckline is so chic.
Layer with a white t-shirt to break up the brown and black.
This chocolate suede would work so well with black denim.
I love the oversized fit of this jacket.
Shop the Jeans:
Ever since I bought a pair of these jeans, I haven't wanted to wear anything else.
3. Grey
Style Notes: It may seem simple, but grey is an underrated pairing for black jeans. My advice is to embrace the softer tones of heather grey or pale shades, which add an understated elegance to a black denim ensemble.
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A fuzzy dream.
A timeless silhouette and colour that will work with all shades of denim.
The crop of this jumper would work so well with high- or mid-rise jeans.
Wear buttoned up as a top, or open over a white t-shirt.
Shop the Jeans:
Forever a fan of AGOLDE denim.
4. Taupe
Style Notes: It may not sound like the most inspiring colour, but taupe is a neutral that works especially well when paired with black. Warmer than white but cooler than camel shades, taupe acts as a versatile base that you can layer over. Follow Annabel's example and use it to break up more black pieces for a elegant, effortless look.
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I love how this looks layered over a white shirt.
Gorgeous on its own, but easy to layer, too.
You could easily recreate Annabel's look with this top.
This look much more expensive than a high street find.
Shop the Jeans:
So many WWW editors swear by Citizens of Humanity denim.
5. Green
Style Notes: Personally, green is one of my favourite colours to wear with black jeans. There are so many shades to choose from, whether you prefer earthy, mossy tones or something altogether more vibrant. It always works.
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Green trainers are such a great option to wear with black denim.
This really embraces this season's preppy-inspired aesthetic.
This shade would work well with light-wash black denim.
This green will really shine next to black pieces.
Shop the Jeans:
Don't sleep on Abercrombie Fitch denim.
6. Crisp White
Style Notes: It's a timeless combination for a reason. Black jeans and a crisp white t-shirt is an outfit formula that always works, managing to feel both classic and completely contemporary.
Shop the Colour:
It's time to restock your white t-shirts.
I'm obsessed with the shape of these sleeves.
This top is ideal for layering, and the boat neckline gives it a refined touch.
Add a touch of texture with an embroidered style.
Shop the Jeans:
For those who like a really straight silhouette.
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