I may be biased, but I’ve always believed that jeans are the hardest-working piece in any capsule wardrobe. Versatile, timeless and always easy to throw on at a moment's notice, I have yet to find a pair that I'm not charmed by. And while they look polished with almost every top trend going, there's one pairing I return to time and time again: jeans and a shirt.
Simple in theory, smart in practice, it's a combination that can easily transition from casual to polished depending on how you choose to style it. Oversized pieces instantly have a laid-back allure, and dressier formal occasions call for classic colour ways, muted prints and structured shapes that feel far more "put together".
Now, if you’re looking at the heat and questioning whether it's time to dust off this combo, trust me, autumn's blissful chill is mere days away. Because of this, I’ve been looking at the best ways to wear it ahead of the seasonal change. Having spent time researching this year's trending denim and smart shirt styles, I’ve been able to compile a look book of sorts. So naturally, I had to share it with you. This is how to style jeans and a shirt—the cool women edition.
The 5 Best Shirt and Jeans Outfits To Wear This Autumn:
1. Plaid Shirt + Drawstring Jeans
(Image credit: @sofiaboman)Style Notes: A blue shirt and loose jeans are nothing new style-wise, but if you’re looking to give this classic look an It-girl spin, there are a few tricks you can employ to bring it up to date Firstly a crisp, white tank top will be your biggest asset as the casual addition makes the whole look feel less contrived. Secondly, an equally laidback pair of drawstring jeans keeps the look minimal fuss, maximum pay off.
Shop the Look: & Other Stories Oversized shirtNo need to size up in the Stories style as it comes naturally oversized.
Reformation Calie TankA Who What Wear UK editors favourite style.
Pull & Bear Low-Rise Jogger JeansJogger style jeans are not only super comfy but look super chic in an indigo wash too.
Senso 70mm Elvie Iv SandalsThis is how I'll be playing with prints this season.
MANGO Suede Shoulder BagThis suede shoulder bag could easily be designer.
2. Denim Shirt + Straight Leg Jeans
(Image credit: @nnennaechem)Style Notes: Can you ever go wrong with a Canadian tuxedo? Balancing the ease of a two-piece set with a healthy dose of cool confidence, double denim has long been a favourite of fashion's best dressed. If you want to make yours feel less Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake in the noughties and more autumn 2026 appropriate, lean into fashion-forward finishes and understated accessories à la Nnenna Echem (pictured above).
Shop the Look: Topshop Denim Funnel Neck ShacketThis looks almost identical Nnenna's own.
AGOLDE 90s Mid-Rise Straight-Leg JeansI've yet to find a fashion person whom doesn't wear by the Agolde '90s Pinch Waist Jeans.
H&M Block-Heeled Ankle BootsI can't quite believe that these block heel beauties are only £45.
Linda Farrow x Jacquemus Notte SunglassesI'm currently obsessed with the Linda Farrow x Jacquemus eyewear collaboration.
Calvin Klein Chunky Buckle BeltThis minimal belt will work well with all the jeans in your autumn rotation.
3. Pinstripe Shirt + Stovepipe Jeans
(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)Style Notes: If you’re a pared-back dresser, straight-leg jeans are probably a staple fixture in your go-tos. However, if you’re looking for a subtle update, why not try out a pair of sleek stovepipes? With a slimmer fit, the streamlined silhouette strikes the perfect balance between polished and everyday comfort—and come autumn, they’ll look exceptionally stylish finished with a structured leather jacket. For a seasonal swap trade a pretty pair of heeled ballet flats for swap out Lucy Williams inspired ankle boots (pictured above). Weather-dependent, of course.
Shop the Look: H&M Leather JacketIf you're looking for a leather jacket, the simpler the better. That way it will stay in your rotation for decades, not seasons.
7 For All Mankind Stovepipe Straight JeansStovepipe jeans have been huge this year.
Uniqlo Rayon Blend ShirtClean, smart, effective.
TOMMY HILFIGER Crossbody Hobo BagThe perfect, vintage-inspired finishing touch.
Vagabond Shoemakers Livia PumpsSuch an elegant rounded toe.
4. Contrast Trim Shirt + Kick Flare Jeans
(Image credit: @sarahlysander)Style Notes: In case you missed it, boho is back in a big way this autumn. But in 2026, it's not only the Chloé-coded whimsy which has taken our fancy. This season, for those averse to pretty dresses, lean into country and western coded denim styling. From big buckled belts to two-tone denim, this is the cooler, more "now" way to embrace the trend , and Sarah Lysander (pictured above) makes the strongest case for it. Be it her distressed bootcuts or slouchy suede bag, this is modern bohemia at its very best.
Shop the Look: Nili Lotan Florence high-rise flared jeansZoe Kravitz was recently spotted out in a pair of jeans just like this.
Polo Ralph Lauren Silk Western ShirtShop Sarah's exact shirt.
Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Id Shoulder BagWhilst the tan version of this bag is sold out, the chocolate brown version is still in stock.
Free People Blaze Pull-On BootsPull on boots will be everywhere by September 1st.
Sezane Virgil JumperI can't wait to pull out my thick knits.
5. Polo Shirt + Barrel Leg Jeans
(Image credit: @monpetitchuchu)Style Notes: Now, further proof that a shirt and jeans doesn’t have to be boring. Case in point: Diana Garcia Urbina's most recent look (pictured above). Using a vibrant striped polo to inject a playful pop into her look, she uses shapely barrel-leg jeans to balance the look. From her oversized sunglasses to the contrasting tan bowling bag, this is certainly a look I’ll be saving for later.
Shop the Look: Free People Fable Low-Rise Twisted Bowed JeansThese jeans come in 10 colours.
DUNST Striped Polo ShirtShop Diana's exact polo.
SAINT LAURENT Le LoaferI've yet find a chicer loafer.
Reiss Alma Bowling BagThis bag has been top of my wish list for some time.
Tom Ford AnnabelleThis season's best selling sunglass style.