10 Best Denim Jackets in 2022 (Levi's, Wrangler, and More)
You can't go wrong with adding a denim jacket to your wardrobe. It is a staple piece that can be thrown on for any occasion and during any season. Whether you need to layer for the fall or cover a casual dress for the spring, a denim jacket is always a good place to start. From brands like Levi and Wrangler, there are a plethora of options to choose from.
In order to help you find the perfect denim jacket, we created a list of our top ten picks based on reviews and research. Wrangler's Rugged Wear Unlined Denim Jacket came in first place with its solid and stylish structure. We've also included a buying guide with tips to make your shopping easier! Read on to find out more.
Quick List - Top Denim Jackets
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How to Choose Denim Jackets
Jean jackets are the ultimate staple clothing accessory, but with all the different styles, shapes, and washes you can end up spending hours on your search. Below, we cover factors like finding the right fit, wash, color, seasonal style, and adding your own personal touch.
Consider the Right Fit for Your Body
There are three factors that will determine the perfect fit you desire in a jean jacket: the sleeve length, hemline, and shoulder areas.
The sleeve length for a denim jacket depends on how you'd want it to fall against your wrist. Typically, most jacket sleeves fall in between the wrist bone and thumb joint for a comfortable look. If you find one that fits perfectly everywhere except the sleeves, you could easily get it tailored.
The hemline is different for everyone according to their body type and style. It falls under three categories: oversized, cropped, and classic. An oversized fit hits right below the crotch area. A cropped fit will usually stop right at the hips or even to your belly button. Lastly, a classic fit hits between the hips and the crotch area.
As for the shoulders, a great way to determine if it's a proper fit is to raise your arms above your head; if you can't get them up you should probably size up. Ideally, the seam should line up on the top of your shoulder and not go past the shoulder bone.
Keep in mind that if you want to layer your denim jacket, make sure it's roomy enough for a sweater underneath or more fitted to fit under a larger coat.
Decide on a Type of Denim or Blend
When picking your denim jacket you can choose between traditional or selvedge denim. While traditional denim is made with sturdy cotton, selvedge denim is associated with more premium jeans. These are woven with a selvedge end to prevent the edges from unraveling.
Additionally, you can decide whether you want a washed or raw denim. Washed denim is exactly what it sounds like in that it's washed during production while raw denim is not. Usually, raw denim is assumed to be of higher quality and made to last for years without needing to be washed while washed is softer and easy to wear.
When choosing your jean jacket, make sure to check the materials. Even though some jackets may look like 100 percent denim, manufacturers may use synthetics like polyester to increase elasticity and flexibility. If you want comfortable denim you can move around in, you actually may want to keep a lookout for this added material.
Look at Varying Washes and Colors
Denim comes in many colors and washes to make jean jackets versatile enough to wear anywhere. Although faded denim doesn't suit everyone, there is a variety of washes and color saturation levels from which to choose: acid wash, rinse wash, mid-wash. light wash, stone wash, black or grey denim, all over tint, coated denim, and a vintage finish.
Dating back to the 80s, acid wash is a trend that contrasts dark and light hues created with chlorine-soaked pumice stones. Stone-washed denim creates a worn, lived-in look by also using pumice stones but without the bleach. The most common washes you see are mid-wash and light wash, which vary in the blue hue of the denim.
Outside of blue shades, you can go for black, gray, or even all-over tint denim that mixes colored dyes in the washing process. There is also coated denim which includes a polyurethane coating to keep denim strong and abrasion-resistant. A vintage wash comes in varying colors, involving bleach and scraping to create a well-loved style.
Find a Style That Fits Your Wardrobe
Before you choose a jacket, decide what fits your style and wardrobe. If you need a casual, basic denim jacket that can work with any outfit, a mid-wash may be a simple choice to go with. If you need a statement piece that gives a bit of an edge, look for one in an acid wash or that has metal hardware, embellishments, rips, or patches.
The hardware on jean jackets may also play a part in your choice. Some jackets come with buttons or zippers in different colors or metals. You can easily match the outer hardware to your jewelry if that is your preference.
The options are endless and really, with a staple denim jacket, you can't go wrong with any style you choose as long as you feel confident in it and will actually wear it.
Style According to the Season
The great advantage of a jean jacket is that it can be worn throughout the whole year. It is an ideal piece to throw on during transitional seasons. Depending on how heavy the material is, it can be a fun addition to any dress or sleeveless top for the spring and can keep you warm when the cool air hits in the fall.
The only times jean jackets might not be comfortable is during the hottest days of summer or the coldest parts of winter. However, a sherpa-lined or fleece jean jacket is the perfect alternative to keep you warm and toasty.
10 Best Denim Jackets Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Wrangler Men's Rugged Wear Unlined Denim Jacket | | The Perfect Relaxed Jacket for Your Closet | |
2 | Riders by Lee Indigo Women's Stretch Denim Jacket | | Lightweight and Stretchy Denim for All Seasons | |
3 | Wrangler Western Style Lined Denim Jacket | | Traditional Western Style to Brace Cold Winters | |
4 | Levi's Women's Original Trucker Jacket | | Basic and Fitted Must-Have for a Classic Look | |
5 | Levi's Ex-Boyfriend Trucker Jacket | | Comes in Plus Size to Suit All Shapes and Sizes | |
6 | JUDYBRIDAL Ripped Boyfriend Jean Jacket | | Edgy and Comfy Denim for a Casual Day Out | |
7 | Floerns Women's Ripped Distressed Denim Jacket | | Detailed Fit in Different Washes for Everyday Wear | |
8 | Design by Olivia Classic Casual Jean Jacket | | Fitted at the Waist to Create an Elegant Silhouette | |
9 | The Children's Place Girl's Denim Jacket | | A Trendy but Classic Denim Jacket for Kids | |
10 | Tanming Casual Lapel Slim Denim Outercoat Windbreaker | | Unique Sleek Fit for Day and Night |
The Perfect Relaxed Jacket for Your Closet
Wrangler's denim jacket is a great essential to add to a man's wardrobe. It comes in a variety of colors with brass hardware and a relaxed fit to remain stylish yet comfortable. Made with 100 percent cotton, it allows you to keep its shape for longer while still having enough space to layer it.
Some reviewers say that this jacket runs large. so if you prefer a more snug fit, this may not be your best option. However, this jacket has proved to be a winner by both male and female customers; one saying it is stylish yet roomy and tough for work while the other put patches on it and loved how spacious and comfortable it is.
Lightweight and Stretchy Denim for All Seasons
This denim jacket is the ideal lightweight jacket to suit all your needs. Designed with four pockets and tarnished silver buttons, this jacket will keep you looking good while it keeps you warm. Made with a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, it flexes with your movements for all-day comfort.
According to reviews, some people found that the arms of the jacket may be a little long, so be sure to take your measurements before choosing a size. However, most buyers love the classic yet flattering fit that can work for any casual or dressy outfit.
Traditional Western Style to Brace Cold Winters
This traditional western style jacket for men is made with high-quality cotton and brass hardware. With an option between a sherpa or blanket lining, this jacket will keep you warm yet stylish through the coldest of winters. Two snap flap pockets on the chest and two side pockets add function and style to this versatile piece.
Reviewers found that the front pockets are a bit small, but if you have broad shoulders the tall size or extra-large is ideal for you. Overall, customers were extremely impressed with how tough and durable the material is that it fits true to size.
Basic and Fitted Must-Have for a Classic Look
This Levi's original trucker jacket is a basic must-have in every woman's closet. Coming in a variety of colors and washes, you are bound to find one that you are looking for. Its simple fit with silver buttons is perfect for any occasion and comes with four pockets to give you enough storage.
According to some reviews, this jacket seems to run smaller than most denim jackets, so if you are in between sizes, it's best to go up. Most customers were satisfied with Levi's sizing guide on their website to find the perfect fit, so if you are on the fence about purchasing one online, you can try that out.
Comes in Plus Size to Suit All Shapes and Sizes
This Levi's ex-boyfriend style is made with a blend of cotton and elastane which makes it comfortable for all-day wear. Designed with plus-size girls in mind, this jacket features a classic cut that's flattering to all shapes and sizes. It comes with pockets on the chest area that is marked by the signature red Levi tab.
There are some reviews that complain the material is heavy and that although it can be worn oversized, the sleeves run too large. However, many customers are happy with the fit and sturdiness of their jacket and find it roomy enough to layer easily for colder weather.
Edgy and Comfy Denim for a Casual Day Out
This high-quality JudyBridal boyfriend jacket feels soft and comfortable against your skin due to its 100 percent cotton design. Adorned with rips and silver buttons, it's a go-to piece beyond your basic jacket. The blue color won't fade, and the six pockets will have you leaving your purse at home.
Reviewers claim that this jacket does not fit oversized at all and the sleeves run a bit short. However, other customers say that to get the oversized fit, you should go up a size and that overall, it spices up any outfit.
Detailed Fit in Different Washes for Everyday Wear
Floerns's denim jacket is a step up from your classic look with its distressed details and silver hardware. The oversized fit makes it a fun option to layer or throw on top of a casual dress. Since it's made with 95 percent cotton and 5 percent polyester, it's important to keep in mind that this jacket doesn't provide any stretch.
Measure yourself before making a purchase since reviewers found that the sleeves were too large and felt they were drowning in material. On the other hand, some buyers love the deep pockets and think that the lightweight jacket is perfect for transitional seasons.
Fitted at the Waist to Create an Elegant Silhouette
This jacket has a fitted form with long sleeves that stops at the hip which is ideal to show off one's shape. Made with a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, it's stretchy and very comfortable. It comes with silver buttons and has two front chest pockets and two side pockets for carrying small items.
Reviewers found that if you have a longer torso, this jacket might be a bit short for you. However, if you prefer a snug fit to accentuate your body, this jacket may be what you are looking for!
A Trendy but Classic Denim Jacket for Kids
Some customers claim that the jacket runs pretty small, which is not always ideal for a growing child. It is suggested to buy up a size to get the most wear out of it. Most were impressed with the quality of the material and that it isn't too thick or thin for everyday wear.
Unique Sleek Fit for Day and Night
This fitted long denim jacket is a spin on the classic fit we are all used to. Designed as a longer jacket sinched in the middle, this makes the jacket ideal for showing off those curves. It is 100 percent cotton to ensure a high-quality feel. The ripped-washed style with gold buttons makes it a fun option to pair with any outfit.
Some customers found that this jacket has an unexpected boxy shape, which is not as flattering. However, others claim that this jacket is ideal to go from a daytime to an evening look and suggest ordering a size up if you plan to button it.
Tailor Your Jacket to Make it Unique
As mentioned before, traditional jean jackets fall at the hip level. This may not be your preferred fit or maybe you find that the proportions are off, so feel free to tailor your jacket into a piece you truly love. Whether you want your jacket to be a bit shorter or add patches and embellishments to give it character, you can make that happen.
For tailoring, it is recommended to take it to a professional if you don't feel confident enough to make the changes yourself or you don't have the right equipment. To do it yourself, you need a needle and thread, scissors, and pins. For adding patches or embroidering, you can use iron-on or sewing equipment to put them on.
All this is to say, you shouldn't have to wear an ill-fitting jacket or get bored of your basic jacket if you want to spice it up. A denim jacket is a classic item that can showcase your style and personality; have fun with it!
How to Style Denim Jackets
For inspiration on how to style your new denim jacket, here are some tips and a try-on video of all the varying fits presented to you by fashion Youtuber Emily Mariko. This just goes to show how much fun you can have in creating and expressing yourself through a classic, versatile denim jacket.
Spice up Your Wardrobe Even More!
Now that you have your ideal jean jacket, you can continue styling your outfit even more. Add onto your wardrobe with some of our other picks!
Top 5 Denim Jackets
No. 1: Wrangler｜Men's Rugged Wear Unlined Denim Jacket
No. 2: Riders by Lee Indigo｜Women's Stretch Denim Jacket
No. 3: Wrangler｜Western Style Lined Denim Jacket
No. 4: Levi's｜Women's Original Trucker Jacket
No. 5: Levi's ｜Ex-Boyfriend Trucker Jacket
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Most ViewedFeatured Rankings Similar to Women's coats and jackets
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