Denim Delicious Weddings
Source: TheKnot
When it comes to wedding fashion, denim might not be the first fabric that comes to mind. But what if you absolutely adore denim? You wear denim to work, to the store, for a night out, and even when you’re lounging at home. Maybe it was even part of your first date with your hubby-to-be! So why not give this trusty favourite a special place at your wedding?
Though its origins are debated, its birthplace is believed to be France, where 17th-century weavers in Nîmes accidentally created “sergé de Nîmes” while trying to replicate a sturdy fabric. Meanwhile, Italian artisans in Genoa were producing a similar indigo-dyed fabric for sailors for clothing and sails. Regardless of which story you prefer, denim’s roots trace back to the Mediterranean before making its way across the Atlantic to America. In the 1800s denim made the transition from fabric to garments, courtesy of Levi Strauss.
Source: SANVT
SANVT, a German fashion startup founded in Munich, explains the Levi Strauss story: “One of his customers was a tailor named Jacob Davis. He often used Levi’s denim to craft durable items like tents, horse blankets, and wagon covers. Commissioned by a gold mining company to make trousers suited to hard physical labour, Davis decided to reinforce the denim with copper rivets. In 1873, Strauss and Davis formed a partnership and patented their riveted work pant, a design element that would become emblematic of Levi Strauss & Co. The production of denim overalls started in the 1870s, and the company debuted its very first pair of jeans in the 1890s. By then, denim had evolved into the quintessential jeans, becoming the staple of American farm and industrial wear.”
The good news is that with the right approach, denim can be both stylish and wedding-worthy! Whether you’re planning a Diamonds and Denim-themed wedding or just want to add some casual chic to your celebration, here’s how to incorporate blue jeans into your wedding and decor.
Denim-Inspired Wedding Attire
Brides who love a rustic or boho aesthetic can opt for a wedding dress with denim accents, such as a denim corset top or embroidered denim panels. Grooms can embrace the theme with a denim jacket over a crisp white shirt or even denim trousers tailored for a sleek look. Bridesmaids can wear chambray dresses for a softer take on the trend, while groomsmen can do dark-wash denim with stylish blazers to keep things polished.
Denim Accessories for a Subtle Touch
If wearing full denim feels like too much (which it usually is!), accessories can be a great way to incorporate it into your wedding look. Consider denim shoes, a denim belt, or even a chic denim clutch for a hint of casual charm. Grooms can wear a denim bow tie or pocket square, and even flower girls can have denim hair bows or a tiny jean jacket over their dress. Ring bearers look super cute in their jean pants and braces.
Denim Décor for a Rustic-Chic Vibe
Denim is the perfect way to add texture and personality to your wedding decor. Use old denim fabric as table runners, chair sashes, or even as a backdrop for your photo booth. Repurpose denim pockets into cutlery holders or napkin wraps, and incorporate denim bunting for a charmingly rustic touch. Denim-wrapped mason jars or bouquets tied with denim ribbons can also bring a cosy, country-inspired feel to your denim tablescape.
A Denim-Inspired Wedding Cake
Yes, even your wedding cake can feature denim! But beware that it doesn’t verge on tacky or looking like a 5-year-old’s birthday cake. It’s a thin line. Ask your baker to create a fondant effect that mimics the look of denim fabric. A better idea may be a cupcake tower with denim-coloured wrappers or cookies shaped like denim jackets. Even chambray-coloured donuts add a denim touch to your celebration. A touch of edible silver or rhinestones can elevate the look to match a Diamonds and Denim theme.
Which Denim Styles Are Wedding-Appropriate?
While denim can be wedding-friendly, not all styles are suitable. Avoid overly distressed jeans with rips and heavy fading, as they can look too casual or messy. Instead, opt for tailored silhouettes like bootcut, flared, or wide-leg jeans that offer a polished feel. For a more formal approach, dark wash or black denim can pass as dress pants, especially when paired with an elegant blouse or blazer. The denim jumpsuit made a comeback this year and can be dressed up beautifully to fit a denim and diamond theme.
Styling Tips for Guests Wearing Denim
If you’re attending a wedding where denim is allowed or encouraged, keep it classy. A dark indigo or black wash is your best bet for a sophisticated look. Women can pair tailored denim with a silky blouse and heels, while men can elevate their jeans with a structured blazer and dress shoes. Avoid baggy, oversized styles or skinny jeans that might not fit the dressy vibe of the event. For inspiration for the menfolk, do visit the online Modern Gentleman Magazine with 35 great outfit ideas! We share some of their top looks here:
Taking denim art to the next level
Ian Berry, a British artist, produces artwork and installations made entirely from denim. Using various shades of the fabric, he creates strikingly realistic installations, portraits, and urban scenes. His creations serve as an inspiration for what can be done with denim as an artistic medium. His Secret Garden installation is enough to make any denim lover go weak at the knees and creates a perfect stage for denim-inspired weddings.
Denim can be stylish, comfortable, and even elegant when done right. Whether it’s through fashion, accessories, or decor, there are plenty of ways to weave denim into your wedding without sacrificing sophistication. By selecting the right denim styles and pairing them with luxurious elements, you can achieve a balance of casual charm and wedding-worthy refinement. So, if you’re a denim lover, don’t shy away—embrace the trend and make your big day as effortlessly cool as your favourite pair of jeans!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
CHRISTA BADENHORST
