If I could count the number of times I’ve been asked how to dress up denim, I’d share it with you here, but since I can’t recall exactly, let’s just say it happens a lot. Do I wear denim to parties and on more formal occasions? Definitely (in fact, earlier this week, while visiting the Savannah College of Art and Design for their annual SCADStyle conference, I wore it 24/7 despite the campus dress code that forbids members of the faculty to do so). Yes, I can get away with it because jeans are my job, but I am a woman with manners, and so I do believe that if you are going to wear denim to a fancy affair, it better be a little bit fancy.

And so without further ado, here is how I advise one do denim for something like a cocktail party: take MiH’s drapey indigo-dyed shawl-collar shirt and pair it with a pant that’s shaped much like AMO Denim’s Kick style, aka something flared that falls over high heels and elongates the leg (forgive me for not having said pant on hand. When was the last time I wore pants?! See Derek Lam’s fall ’15 collection for versions of what I’m after). Can you imagine it? Even untucked, the look is so louche and elegant. Try it, and find me a host that feels it’s not party-appropriate. I dare you, dear denimheads. And, please, report back!

Click on a pic to get closer…
Jane BishopOH, YOU FANCY Is this the equivalent of denim-on-denim black tie? Tell us in the comments section below.

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For more elevated denim, go to matchesfashion.com.

Visit Jane and AMO Denim’s designers Misty and Kelly this Saturday, April 16 at The Apartment by The Line. 76 Greene Street, 3rd floor, NYC; 2 – 6 pm. For more info, go to TheLine.com.