How to Wear Jeans to Work

Last Updated: January 8, 2023 References

If your office has a more casual dress code, you may be allowed to wear jeans on certain days of the week. Jeans can be professional when you choose a darker cut and pair it with a quality top. Blazers, cardigans, and dress shoes can also give jeans the professional flare necessary to be worn in an office.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Selecting Your Type of Jeans

1
Go for darker jeans. Lighter jeans tend to look more casual, so stick to a darker wash. Dark blue jeans or black jeans are generally more appropriate for the office, so choose your darkest jeans when wearing jeans to work.^{[1]
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Fashion Stylist
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2
Pick a work-appropriate cut. Trendier cuts, like skinny jeans or flared legs, are generally less office appropriate. Straight legs or trouser silhouettes are usually a safe option to wear to the office.^{[2]
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3
Avoid faded jeans or embellishments. Flashier jeans may look too showy to be appropriate for work. Faded jeans, torn jeans, or jeans with embellishments like embroidery are generally not welcome in an office setting. Stick to traditional solid-colored jeans without any added decorations.
- However, if your office practices something like casual Fridays, this may be an exception to the rule.
4
Check the dress code. Before wearing jeans to work, it's always best to check the dress code. Some offices may have specific rules for the types of jeans that are appropriate. Others may outlaw jeans altogether or only allow them on days like casual Fridays.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Pairing Jeans with an Appropriate Top

1
Go for a turtleneck. A classic turtleneck is a classy, conservative wardrobe choice that is generally appropriate for any office. A turtleneck can pair nicely with formal jeans for a work setting.
- Make sure the turtleneck you choose is work appropriate. Go for more conservative colors and minimal embellishments.
- For example, a plain black turtleneck paired with straight leg black jeans can be a great outfit for your office.
2
Wear a blouse. While jeans and a blouse may seem like an odd contrast, more formal jeans can look great when paired with a blouse. Blouses are generally considered highly appropriate for an office setting, so jeans and a blouse is a versatile option when wearing jeans to work.^{[3]
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- For example, wear a pair of darker bluejeans with a formal white blouse.
- As with other office attire, go for more conservative blouses without a lot of embellishments. Things like sequins and ruffles may not be considered office appropriate.
3
Try a classic button down shirt. A classic button down shirt is usually considered appropriate attire in most offices. These can easily be paired with jeans for a nice, business casual outfit.
- For example, pair a striped button down shirt with a pair of black jeans.
- Be careful of the material you wear, however. More casual materials, like flannel, may not be appropriate for every office.
4
Try a sweater. During the cooler months, a sweater can be a great option to pair with jeans. If you're wearing straighter cut jeans, a larger and bulkier sweater can provide a nice contrast.^{[4]
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- As with other wardrobe options, be sure to choose a more conservative sweater. Novelty sweaters, very colorful sweaters, or sweaters with a lot of embellishments may not be office appropriate.
5
Wear a t-shirt on casual days. If your office practices something like casual Fridays, take advantage of this by simply wearing jeans and a t-shirt. This is a classic, causal look that can fit into an office on less formal days of the week.^{[5]
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- Be careful to choose a t-shirt that fits into an office setting, however. T-shirts with a lot of graphics and pictures do not look as professional as solid colored t-shirts or t-shirts with simple patterns like stripes.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Adding Professional Accessories

1
Select appropriate footwear. Flats, dress shoes, and heels are generally safe to wear at most offices. Pairing jeans with sneakers may look unprofessional. To make sure the more casual jeans blend with a more formal setting, pick your best shoes to wear to the office with jeans.^{[6]
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- For example, go for a pair of dress shoes over something like sneakers or boots.
2
Throw on a watch. A watch is a versatile accessory that's generally appropriate for the office. It can be paired with most shirts and outfits, so throw on a watch with your jeans to make the whole look more professional.^{[7]
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- Choose a more conservative watch, however. Very brightly colored watches, or watches with sequins and other flashy embellishments, may not fit into an office setting.
3
Wear a blazer or cardigan. Blazers and cardigans can add a little professional flare to any outfit. If you're worried your outfit doesn't look work appropriate, toss on a blazer or cardigan before leaving for the office to give your look a professional feel.
- For example, wear a black blazer over a sleeveless blouse with a pair of black jeans.
4
Opt for simple, professional jewelry. If you wear jewelry, stick to professional and simple jewelry. This is generally more office appropriate than big, flashy jewelry.
- For example, a plain gold chain necklace and gold stud earrings should fit into most offices.
5
Add a tie. Pairing a tie with a button down shirt and jeans will give your outfit a more professional feel. Ties generally signify formality, so a tie can be a great accessory to ensure you stay work appropriate when wearing jeans to the office.

Expert Q&A
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Question

Is it OK to wear jeans to work?

Kathi Burns, CPO®
Board Certified Professional Organizer
Kathi Burns is a board certified Professional Organizer (CPO) and Founder of Organized and Energized!, her consulting business with a mission to empower people to master their environment and personal image by assisting them in taking control, making change and organizing their lives. Kathi has over 17 years of organizing experience and her work has been featured on Better Homes and Gardens, NBC News, Good Morning America, and Entrepreneur. She has a BS in Communication from Ohio University.

Kathi Burns, CPO®

Board Certified Professional Organizer

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

It's all about context, right? Does the dress code allow it and do other people wear jeans? If so, it's going to be fine. If not, I'd stick with dress slacks and professional dresses.
Question

Why do none of my jeans feel like they fit?

Kathi Burns, CPO®
Board Certified Professional Organizer
Kathi Burns is a board certified Professional Organizer (CPO) and Founder of Organized and Energized!, her consulting business with a mission to empower people to master their environment and personal image by assisting them in taking control, making change and organizing their lives. Kathi has over 17 years of organizing experience and her work has been featured on Better Homes and Gardens, NBC News, Good Morning America, and Entrepreneur. She has a BS in Communication from Ohio University.

Kathi Burns, CPO®

Board Certified Professional Organizer

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

Yeah, this is a super common problem. It can be hard to find to find a brand that fits right. It might be time to head out and update your wardrobe. Once you find a brand that fits you, stick with them!