There are certain style choices I’ve never once second-guessed, and double denim is one of them. For as long as I can remember, I’ve reached for denim-on-denim without hesitation. Some people call it daring, others say it’s tricky to pull off—but for me, it’s the kind of look that always works.
I remember the first time I heard the term “Canadian Tuxedo.” I couldn’t help but laugh at the name—it’s playful, a little tongue-in-cheek—but it perfectly captures the idea. To be honest, I never dug into where the phrase originated, but I love that it gives this look a bit of history and character.
So why do I love it so much? Because double denim strikes that rare balance of being both polished and effortless. When you wear denim head-to-toe, the clothing itself fades into a kind of neutral canvas. It’s understated but never boring. That means your accessories, shoes, and little styling details become the stars of the outfit. A great bag or a sharp pair of boots can instantly shift the mood from casual cool to chic sophistication.
On a recent press trip to Shanghai with Chloé, I found myself gravitating—once again—to this exact formula. I wore a light denim shirt from 3×1, tucked into RE/DONE shorts (which, bonus, I’d scored on sale). To ground the look, I paired it with Chloé boots and carried a Chloé bag—both pieces that added a touch of refinement and luxury. Then, for the finishing touch, I slipped on oversized Céline sunglasses. The whole outfit came together seamlessly, a blend of casual ease and understated elegance, perfect for exploring a bustling city like Shanghai.
That’s the beauty of denim-on-denim—it’s adaptable. Swap the boots for sneakers, and the look becomes street-style ready. Trade the shorts for wide-leg jeans, and suddenly it’s evening-appropriate with the right heels. Play with washes—light on top, dark on bottom, or vice versa—and you’ve created a whole new take without buying anything new. The versatility is endless.
Of course, double denim has its critics. For years, it was considered a fashion faux pas, the kind of look that invited raised eyebrows. But that’s exactly why I love it even more now—it feels a little rebellious, a little unexpected. Fashion should be fun, and breaking a so-called rule is sometimes the easiest way to inject personality into your style.
If you’ve ever been hesitant to try it, my advice is this: start simple. Pair your favorite jeans with a denim shirt in a different wash. Add shoes and accessories that feel distinctly you. A statement belt, a chic handbag, or bold sunglasses can instantly elevate the look. And most importantly—wear it with confidence. That’s the one accessory that never goes out of style.
For me, denim-on-denim has become almost like a signature. It’s reliable, but never dull. It makes me feel put-together without feeling overdone. And no matter where I am—whether on a press trip across the world or heading out for coffee in my own neighborhood—it always feels like the right choice.
So yes, you could call it my forever uniform. There’s never been a day where I decided against double denim—and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.
