Julianne Moore's suit is the grown-up way to wear double denim

Telegraph

31-03-2025

Double denim. Two words which can strike fear into even the most confident of dressers, conjuring images of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake in those matching 'Canadian tuxedos' from the early 2000s.
It is, however, possible to rock jean on jean in ways that feel surprisingly elegant and cool. Julianne Moore gave us a double-denim masterclass last week when she wore a denim suit to an event celebrating the launch of the capsule collection she co-designed with Californian label Frank and Eileen, which will be available to buy this autumn.
Comprising a single-breasted, loose-fit denim blazer in mid blue with matching wide-leg jeans, the head-to-toe denim ensemble felt understated. Yet, styled as Moore did – with chunky gold jewellery and glowing make-up – it looked decidedly polished. It was a great evening look, as easy to pull off as it was elegant. This is the sophisticated way to do double denim for those over 40.
'Double denim has come a long way from its once-taboo status,' says stylist Nadia Phillips, who wore a Frankie Shop cropped indigo denim jacket and matching wide-leg jeans to London Fashion Week. 'When done right, it looks effortlessly cool, especially when adding contrast with accessories, or playing with proportions and shapes.'
According to trend forecaster WGSN's spring/summer 2025 report, this summer will see a shift towards denim tailoring and office wear, while wide-leg jeans will retain their spot as the dominant silhouette for another season, accounting for 27.1 per cent of the market. 'I've seen people wear a full denim look to meetings or dinners and look seriously chic,' says stylist and content creator Felicity Bird, whose background in retail consultancy means she understands corporate dress codes. 'It's just about styling it with polish. Think sharp accessories, a heel or loafer, and a clean white shirt or silk camisole.'
Still not sold on the idea of wearing double denim to your next board meeting or birthday dinner? A quick look at some recent runway moments might inspire, particularly the washed denim pleat-front palazzo pants and matching blazer Ralph Lauren showed for this season, an elegant look for a client meeting or spring lunch; or the ultra-polished indigo denim jacket and trouser combinations Tory Burch and Ulla Johnson showed in their autumn/winter 2025 collections, both of which had easy evening appeal.
'Denim is evolving beyond its casual roots, with designers incorporating structured tailoring and high-end finishes that make it suitable for formal settings,' says Phillips. 'Bottega Veneta and Saint Laurent have introduced dark, sleek denim suits that feel more like modern tailoring than traditional denim, while Brunello Cuccinelli pairs denim blazers with cashmere turtlenecks, elevating the look.'
It's not just luxury brands that are serving brilliant denim suiting. High street names from Cos to Sézane, Paige, Levi's and Me+Em have launched interpretations this season. And once you've got your head around the idea of a denim 'suit', you realise its charm as a wonderfully versatile styling piece (there's a reason Me+Em's jacket is called the 'Wear With Everything Blazer'). After all, denim goes with everything, and the parts of a denim suit can be worn together or separately ensuring maximum mileage. The trick is to ensure both pieces are the same shade. Opt for good quality, minimally stretchy fabrics and structured fits, then pair with luxe fabrics like silk, suede and polished leather. A belt can also be useful to break up a look, just avoid big buckles which can veer a little too rodeo.
'Totême does really elegant denim that feels grown-up – their straight-leg jeans and jackets are great if you want something polished,' says Bird. 'I also love Citizens of Humanity for a more relaxed feel (its horseshoe jeans are a favourite), and Agolde is brilliant for trend-led cuts that still feel wearable – its low-slung baggy styles are so good. For high street, Arket and Cos have nailed the minimal look this season.'
How to wear a denim suit
For day
'Play on the slightly 1970s feel of a denim suit by adding a ruffle white cotton blouse and tan accessories,' says Florrie Thomas, stylist and co-founder of personal shopping platform Wrapp10. Sézane's Christie jacket and matching high-waisted flares have a similar feel that would work well.
Christie jacket, £170, and Martin trousers, £125, Sézane
Alternatively, Phillips and Bird suggest making it more relaxed with a white tee or tank, straight leg vintage wash jeans and ballet flats or trainers. Effortless but still pulled together.
As summer draws near, don't rule out the possibility of a denim blazer styled with shorts, either matching or leather, and strappy mules. Cos has a single-breasted blazer and matching Bermuda shorts that's comfortable but cool.
For work
For work, look for structured silhouettes – sharp lapels and defined shoulders. Simkhai and Paige both have great options, each with a slightly cinched waist that's super flattering. 'Layer over a white tee or fine knit with smart loafers and a sleek bag,' says Bird, 'to keep it elevated but not too try-hard.'
For evening
'For evening, opt for indigo denim for a smarter look or juxtapose your favourite pair with sparkly heels and a tuxedo shirt or blazer,' says Thomas. And don't forget to up the ante on accessories: a pair of diamanté earrings, red lipstick and slicked back hair take denim from daywear to dinner ready.
If you'd rather break it up, Phillips suggests pairing an oversized indigo denim blazer with shoulder pad details with black trousers and a fitted tank top and a great heel for a sleek, monochrome outfit.
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