Originally created as practical workwear, denim has travelled from farms and factories to Hollywood and the catwalk eventually becoming one of the most versatile fabrics in our wardrobes.
So where did the denim jacket begin, and how did this hardworking garment become such an enduring fashion favourite?
The History of the Denim Jacket
Denim's story begins with practicality.
Its strong construction made denim particularly well suited to workwear, becoming associated with American miners, railway workers, farmers and labourers who needed clothing capable of withstanding demanding work.
Levi Strauss & Co. introduced early riveted denim clothing during the late 19th century, helping establish denim's reputation for exceptional durability.
But denim wouldn't remain solely workwear for long.
When Did Women Start Wearing Denim?
During the early 20th century, denim gradually became more widely worn by women, particularly for practical work and outdoor activities.
As women's roles changed during the World Wars, practical clothing became increasingly important, with trousers and hard-wearing fabrics becoming a more familiar part of women's wardrobes.
In 1934, Levi Strauss & Co. introduced Lady Levi's®, jeans specifically designed for women. Originally intended for Western and outdoor wear, they represented an important moment in denim's journey into women's everyday wardrobes.
How Did Denim Become Fashionable?
By the 1950s, denim was beginning to mean something completely different.
Hollywood helped transform practical workwear into a symbol of relaxed, youthful style, with stars including James Dean and Marlon Brando famously appearing in denim.
Women embraced it too.
Marilyn Monroe helped demonstrate denim's more relaxed side, wearing jeans both on and off screen. Her denim looks — often combined with beautifully simple shirts and knitwear — helped show just how effortlessly the fabric could fit into an everyday wardrobe.
As fashions changed throughout the following decades, denim changed with them.
The 1960s and 1970s brought customised denim, embroidery, patches and individual styling, while designers increasingly incorporated the fabric into their collections.
The washes and silhouettes may have changed since, but the classic denim jacket has never really disappeared.
Why Is It Called a Canadian Tuxedo?
The wonderfully memorable phrase "Canadian tuxedo" refers to an outfit combining denim on both the top and bottom.
One popular story behind the expression involves American singer Bing Crosby, who was reportedly denied entry to a Canadian hotel while wearing denim in 1951.
After hearing what had happened, Levi Strauss & Co. created a custom denim tuxedo jacket for Crosby.
Today, double denim is considerably easier to wear — no tuxedo required.
How Should a Denim Jacket Fit?
A denim jacket should feel structured but comfortable.
Look for a fit that sits neatly around your shoulders while still allowing you to move your arms freely. Depending on the style, the hem may finish around the waist or hips.
Most importantly, think about how you're going to wear it.
If you love layering a denim jacket over knitwear, you'll want enough room underneath. If you generally wear yours over a blouse or lightweight top, you may prefer a neater fit.
For more advice, read our guide to finding the perfect jacket fit, covering shoulders, sleeves, length, layering and everyday movement.
