9 Runway-Inspired Ways to Wear Denim

While pencil skirts and twin sets evoke the perfect display of Parisian chic (or a British librarian, depending how you look at it), denim is a steadfast reminder of American style. At this point, even the hautest European designers have dipped their toes in our sartorial waters, creating denim looks that elevate or destroy this ever-versatile textile at their whim. Here, we give credit where it's due and pull our favorite looks from recent past, present, and future collections. Italians do it. The French do it. And Americans do it, too. Feast your eyes on the lastest denim looks to covet.

Go Wide

A girl just can't have a complete denim wardrobe without a pair of wide leg jeans. They're 70s chic and flattering for a wide array of body types. With a pair of heeled boots underneath, your legs will look miles long and the proper fit will draw emphasis to your backside and hips -- in a good way. Need more inspiration? This style is worn almost exclusively by stylist and designer Rachel Zoe, who also happens to have a look in this list.

Cropped and Cuffed

The 50s vibe of this overall look is just too delicious. Those little dark cropped jeans paired with heels are going to be all over spring street style blogs. Get a head start and snap up a pair the first chance you get.

Button Down

It's a denim button down shirt and it works with everything from a sequin maxi skirt to a daring mini to tuxedo pants. Own one.

Lighten Up

Dark denim is a tempting rut to get yourself into. It's slimming, it's easy versatile, it's your go-to. But don't forget about the, um, "dark horse" of denim, which ironically is light-colored duds. From white to barely-there blue, it's unexpected enough these days to feel chic and modern.

Dressed to Distressed

What is it about pairing a pair of stained-looking destroyed denim with -- anything -- that makes your look feel cool and hip? Wear something like this on your movie dates, brunches with friends, and virtually any other time that doesn't include your office.

Long and Lean

Another must-have denim silhouette: the dark wash skinny jean. Notice here how easy it is to make it look upscale with a sumptuous top like velvet and how chic it looks tucked into knee-high boots.

Little Denim Jacket

We love this layered look that elevates a simple denim jacket by letting it poke out of a tuxedo-inspired jacket on top. Layering is perfect for fall and winter. We highly recommend emulating this from head to toe.

Studded to Perfection

Studs are another add-on that's making the rounds on everything from bags and shoes to jewelry and clothing. Here's an example of a studded denim duster coat that makes us think of a tough millennial cowgirl. Find your own denim studded piece and wear it until it's worn in to perfection.

Gold Plated

Metallic threads are everywhere these days and a new process of coating denim in different finishes from glossy to gold is most definitely in. Take a cue from Cavalli and seek out your own pair of gold standard jeans. Wear them out at night and be the shining star of your crew.