These Street Style Looks Prove You Can Wear Denim to Work

If your workplace has a strict dress code, it's highly likely one of the unspoken but entirely enforced rules is NO DENIM. Not a scrap of it. To be honest, I used to avoid wearing jeans to the office for fear of looking scruffy (and I work in fashion!), but I've realised—as denim has become an increasingly important part of the high-fashion lexicon—there are grown-up, super-chic, sophisticated and boardroom-appropriate ways that a girl can introduce jean pieces into her day-to-day wardrobe.
There are two rules you really need to live by:
1. Opt for clean, dark washes. They instantly look crisper and more pulled-together than anything light. You'll also find designers often use these more for tailored denim pieces, so there's a doubly sleek option.
2. Do not allow distressed finishes into the mix. As cool as they are, ripped jeans are more likely to make a bad impression in the boardroom. A subtle, artfully frayed edge here or there won't matter but full knee-baring holes are a step too far.
So we've rounded up some great street style looks to inspire you—and you can shop from them too!
Related: Ask a Stylist: What Shoes Should I Wear With Different Jeans?
Still searching for workwear inspiration? Check out these excellent 101 office-appropriate buys!
Hannah Almassi is the Editor in Chief ofBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK. She joined in 2015 when she launched the UK sister site following a seven-year tenure at Grazia magazine as fashion news and features editor. With experience in print and digital across fashion and beauty, Hannah has over 18 years of experience as a journalist, editor and content strategist. Her opinion has been sought by the likes of CNBC, BBC, The Sunday Times Style, The Times, The Telegraph and MatchesFashion.com and she is often called upon for her take on trends, becoming known as a person with their finger of the pulse of what’s happening in the fashion space for stylish Brits.
-
This Is Your Last Chance to Shop the Amazon Big Spring Sale—31 Chic Finds Not to Miss
So good even Levi's jeans are on sale.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Light-Wash Jeans Always Look More Expensive When Worn With This Elevated Basic
As seen on Zendaya in Italy.
By Allyson Payer
-
Tired of Jeans? We Are Too—Here's What We're Wearing Instead This Spring
Chic and comfortable.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
7 Ways to Style Your Jeans for Spring That Feel Very 2025
Courtesy of the street style set.
By Emma Spedding
-
My Most Complimented Everyday Jeans Are on Sale for Just a Few More Hours
Grab them now, or pay full price later.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Rich-Looking Outfits Are the Goal—31 Chic Pieces From the Amazon Big Spring Sale That Fit the Bill
These will have you doing a double take.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I Found a Trove of Cool-Girl Basics From theReplica Store Sale—31 Chic Standouts
These have closet-staple status.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
It's Here: The 2025 Version of Skinny Jeans
Spotted on Emily Ratajkowski in NYC.
By Allyson Payer