A good denim shirt can do wonders for your style. It can transform an outfit from uptight to urban within seconds (if worn correctly.) It can send the message that you just don’t give a f*ck and looks a lot cooler than a cardigan. But most importantly, it’s versatile.  A button down denim shirt can last you years if treated kindly.

Free People is selling a vintage Wrangler denim shirt that would be a great addition to any wardrobe:

Here’s an example of how a denim shirt can elevate a look:

WILDFOX tank / SEVEN jeans / BOY. BY BAND OF OUTSIDERS chambray shirt / REPOTTO shoes / PRADA bag / EDDIE BORGO ring / RAY-BAN sunglasses

Although the outfit can stand on its own, it’s nice to have a little something to throw on if you get cold.  A cardigan would not fit with the rest of the ensemble and a jacket would be too heavy.  The denim shirt is light enough for this outfit to transition into summer.

Here’s a different take on the denim shirt look:

SEE BY CHLOÈ top / J BRAND shorts / JEFFREY CAMPBELL booties / FRENCH CONNECTION clutch / REED KRAKOFF cuff / MULBERRY bracelet / THE ROW sunglasses / KATE SPADE earrings

Subtract some buttons, add some ruffles and you end up with a completely different look with just as much of an edge.  The ruffles add a girly touch while the black, brass and heavy booties maintain a grungy vibe.  The wooden bag is unexpected and adds some softness to an otherwise hard outfit.

This outfit has more of a girly feel:

RALPH LAUREN top / AUSTIQUE shorts / MOTO denim shirt / MODERN VINTAGE booties / MIU MIU clutch / VAN DER STRAETEN earrings / WILDFOX rings

The silk tie-dye shorts are on trend and add some feminine flair to the menswear inspired denim shirt and booties.  The simple white top keeps the outfit looking clean rather than overdone.

Here is a cheaper version of the denim look for fashionistas on a budget:

OBEY tank $75/ MONKI shorts $31/ JEFFREY CAMPBELL booties $350/ URBAN EXPRESSIONS clutch $30/ HOT TOPIC bracelet $13/ SIDNEY MICHAELS earrings $24/ PAYLESS ring $10/ 80S PURPLE sunlgasses $12

I know…it’s just a different version of the same Jeffrey Campbell bootie…but I am a firm believer that one should invest in their shoes.  Cheap shoes are easy to spot and hurt your feet, so my advice would be to save up for a quality pair of shoes rather than a $200 pair of jeans.  And these shoes really do complete the look.  Thank you Jeffrey Campbell…we all love the Lita.