How to Style a Kids' Jean Jacket
When it comes to wardrobe essentials, most of us have at least one jean jacket in rotation. It seems that this casual-cool piece of outerwear is always on trend, although this trend is definitely having a moment at the moment. Perhaps that’s because all those iconic 90s looks are coming back into fashion (we’re not mad about it!), or perhaps it’s simply because jean jackets are so versatile. They look great on everyone, after all, and no matter your personal style, you can rock it with everything from jeans and kicks to a midi skirt and heeled booties. And when we say everyone, we mean everyone—including kiddos.
For the cool-as-a-cucumber kid who has a few pairs of sunglasses in rotation to the budding fashionista who is all about keeping up with the trends, kids’ jean jackets are a staple. Outside of the obvious style perks, this outer layer also happens to be an oh-so-sensible option if you’re looking for lightweight or mid-weight outerwear on those brisk yet sunny days. So, whether you’re inspired by the trend factor or looking for a practical and versatile outerwear option for your kiddo, we’ve laid out some of our favorite ways to style a kids’ jean jacket below.
With a White Tee and a Pair of Denim Jeans
The first idea on our list might just be one of your favorite looks from a bygone era: the iconic 90s. While many of us might look back on our 90’s outfits with some “what were we thinking?” sentiments (or, “what were our parents thinking?”, is also a fair reaction), this outfit has stood the test of time.
Yes, we’re talking about the classic 90s look of a white T-shirt with a denim jacket and a pair of denim jeans. And this look also happens to be a cool, cute, and perfectly simple option for the kiddos of today. As long as you have a kids’ crewneck white tee and a pair of classic blue kids' jeans on hand, all you have to do is add the jean jacket layer and they’ll be good to go. Bonus points to you if you can find a picture of yourself in this exact same ‘fit to share with them!
With a White Polo and a Midi Skirt
We’re going to switch gears here to a dressier option, which really speaks to the versatility of this piece of outwear. For kiddos who like to keep it a little extra snazzy or for a classic school day look, style their jean jacket with a white kids' polo shirt and a skirt.
There are a ton of great girls' skirts to incorporate into this look, from a timeless plaid pleated skirt to a fun glittery tulle skirt if you want to add a touch of glam to this outfit. Kids will love rocking this look with everything from their favorite pair of sneakers to ballet flats or boots, and a classic blue denim jean jacket works great here.
With a Graphic Tee and a Pair of Black Jeans
If you’ve got a cool kid in your midst, you’re likely no stranger to the world of kids' graphic T-shirts. Graphic tees are a great way for kiddos to express themselves through their personal style, and they also happen to look extra fun with a jean jacket layer.
They can pair their favorite graphic tee with a pair of black jeans and a black, light blue, white, or off-white denim jacket layer. This look will already earn them major cool kid points (as if they need any more!), but you can kick it up a notch with a pair of kicks and some kid-friendly shades. With this look in their rotation, they’re sure to be the talk of the town—or the playground, which counts just as much.
With a Casual Cotton Dress
This next outfit might just be one of the easiest ways to style a kids’ jean jacket, and also one that any budding fashionista will absolutely love. All you have to do here is pick out a casual dress for girls, like a stretchy Jersey cotton dress in a fun print, and add the denim jacket layer.
You can make this outfit work all year round by styling it as-is with some ballet flats or sneakers in the warmer months, or by adding a pair of cozy kids' leggings and boots in the chillier months. From a school day to a playdate, this outfit is as comfy as it is cute. It’s never too early for them to learn that they can be stylish without having to sacrifice comfort!
These are just a few of our favorite ideas for styling a kids’ jean jacket. No matter their personal style preferences, you’ll be sure to find their next favorite outfit in this list. And, of course, we won’t judge you if you steal some of these ideas for yourself, too.