Colored denim is stepping in as the season’s freshest wardrobe update. The dependable blue denim will always be a classic, but this spring, fashion is making a strong case for color. Across the runways, designers took a more expressive approach to dressing—from sharp color blocking at Loewe, Prada, and Jil Sander, to striking monochromatic looks at Chanel, Ashlyn, and Balenciaga.
Vogue’s Top Colored Denim Picks
The shift is showing in the denim space, too. Rich earth tones—clay, sand, and khaki—feel modern right now, offering a polished, understated alternative to traditional blue. Seen everywhere from Loewe, Celine, and Tibi to denim labels like Ossou and Jeanerica Atelier, these grounding shades style well with everyday neutrals—making them especially appealing for the minimalist.
We previously spoke to denim experts, who they weighed in on the neutral alternative wash: “Color plays a transformative role, lifting the everyday and reframing the familiar,” Nina Khosla and Talia Shuvalov, Ossou creative directors said. The soft neutrals and earthy tones “shift [the] mood and perception,” allowing for a wardrobe addition that “feels grounded yet poetic, where ease becomes expressive and the ordinary is elevated through craft and subtle beauty.”
But it’s not all dusty, muted washes—brighter hues have also entered the conversation. Cobalt, as seen at Versace, and red, at Kallmeyer, bring a confident jolt of color, while pastels, like lavender (as seen at Chloé), blush pink, and soft blue offer a softer way to tap into the trend alongside staple neutrals.
Colored denim is one of the easiest way to shake up your wardrobe for spring—the only question remaining is, which hue is for you?
Earth Tones
Among the wave of colored denim, grounding earth-tone washes feel especially compelling this season—standing out for ease of styling and versatility, especially in a wardrobe anchored by neutrals and louche tailoring. The Row, Loewe, Celine, Dior, and editor-favorite Ossou have all incorporated this shade into their collectsions, solidifying it as one of the season’s standout tones.
Rose Hues
Agolde x Maria McManus recently released a limited-edition collaboration featuring a blush-hued pair of denim that’s especially chic. Soft, fresh, and unexpectedly versatile, it makes for an elegant alternative to white denim. Try styling with a similar shade of pink on top for a monochromatic look, or pair with grey knitwear for transitional moments.
Pastel Hues
Pastel-hued denim is having a moment. At the Chloé show, candy colored pairs in shades ranging from mint to lavender brought a playful, lighter touch to the category. Pair with anything from a white tee to a colorful poplin shirt—plus your choice of a transitional jacket.
Vibrant Hues
For those with a bold of view, take a note from Versace, where cobalt blue jeans made a striking statement on the runway. As the color-blocking trend continues, brands are embracing primary-hued denim to energize wardrobes. Style them equally expressively, with a multicolored striped knit and a statement shoe.
