Styling a Denim Tuxedo
📍 Larimer Square, Denver
Shirt || Jeans || Flats || Handbag || Earrings || Lip Color
The ‘Canadian Tuxedo’ has always been on the border between tacky and stylish. It originally made its way to the pop culture scene when Britney and Justin donned the red carpet in head-to-toe denim in 2001. If you’re a twenty-something (and approaching 30), it’s probably the first mental image you get. As you can probably guess, it’s been around for much longer. Bing Crosby is thought to be the original celebrity endorser of the denim ensemble in 1951, after a dress code incident in Vancouver, Canada. From there, it has been a favorite with Levi Jeans, Elvis Presley, Tupac, and beyond. If you’re looking for a somewhat western and effortlessly casual look, here are my top tips for styling your Denim Tuxedo.
Mix Your Denims
In truth, it all depends on the kind of looking you’re going for. Typically, I like to pair a light chambray shirt with my darkest pair of jeans for a bit of contrast. It plays as a middle grand is a great approach if you want to wear denim on denim for the first time. Don’t overthink it! There’s nothing wrong with wearing similar denim tones. It can give the outfit a jumpsuit feel instead. Just mix and match what’s already in your closet to find the combination that is right for you.
Find A Shirt With Character
I have plenty of standard button-downs in chambray. I wear them often with anything from denim, crisp white shorts, or as a cover-up. When I first laid eyes on this particular denim top from J. Crew, I was itching to buy it! It elevates the button-down game in so many different ways. The ruffles add a fun touch. It makes a western-ware staple feel surprisingly lady-like. Finding a denim shirt with some character changes the feel of the whole outfit. Look for pieces with embroidery, embellishment, or even a tie-dye pattern. Don’t be afraid to DIY!
Elevate Your Footwear
When you’re wearing such a utilitarian uniform, I believe in making your footwear a little dressier. While sneakers are always a good idea, I love how my cherry red Margaux flats pair with the outfit. I feel like 21st century Rosie the Riveter. All that I’m missing is a matching red bandana in my hair. Don’t be afraid to add a pair of heels to get a blue-collar outfit ready for date night. It can be a pop of color or a go-to pair in a neutral (black or camel) hue.
Add A Splash of Color
Because your outfit is incredibly monotone, definitely add a splash of color. This can be in your footwear, accessories, or even makeup. Clearly, I have a thing for red today, and I wanted to highlight that from head to toe. My most recent addition to my makeup bag is this incredible matte lipstick from Chanel, First Light. The formula was creamy and lasted all day. I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect red that works with my skin tone. This shade has a touch of orange which I recommend for olive skin, dark-haired gals. Don’t be surprised if you see it more and more!
Since Denver is a city rooted in western frontier culture, Larimer Square seemed like a great place to highlight a head-to-toe denim look. I joke that if I ever move to Colorado and run for office, a virtually impossible feat, I already have my campaign picture. When it comes to styling a Canadian Tuxedo, be sure to have fun and wear it with pride. It may just become a new favorite uniform!
Love from Denver,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.