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An interesting event unfolded at the recent Venice film festival: a famous actress appeared wearing jeans. Usually, a movie gala premiere entrance implies chiffon and glitter, exposed arms and sweeping hems. However the celebrity chose midnight high-end trousers combined with a soft lined blouse and a structured blazer. Moreover, even if it's true that if you possess a iconic expression, your clothing doesn't have to work as hard – still. It was a moment. A fresh phase of looking smart in denim has begun.

Most of us feel a bit conflicted about denim wear. They are our default setting on a leisure day, however when it's time to appear polished, we opt for an alternative. However jeans, paired appropriately, can bring you to your workplace or a nice restaurant with abundant sophistication. And, most of us don't need to fret about the red carpet, after all.

A tailored jacket is to jeans as makeup on a clean complexion. The contrast makes the look seem deliberate and thoughtful, which projects confidence.

We'll open with the basics. Should your denim droop at the bend or drag on the pavement, no level of silk blouse skill will rescue the ensemble. Sophisticated trousers are centered on clean lines, precise cut and a style that flatters you. The very loose trousers currently everywhere right now can look excellent styled up for let-loose parties. But for a appearance that comes across as semi-formal, a tailored cut achieves the perfect tailoring-adjacent vibe, and the bottom edge needs to fall precisely at the upper part of your shoe. Straight jeans are useful because they know how to behave themselves in company. If straight jeans were personified, they would be timely and well-mannered, extremely efficient. This explains why they are your friend here.

The typical error we do when aiming to appear polished in denim is to attempt to play down the pants. Should you pick boring jeans and conceal them with an eye-catching piece up top in the hope that no one will notice you are in denim, you fail to hide the jeans – you appear hastily assembled, which is not the idea at all. A simple strap that highlights of the trousers is the right choice.

Firm denim provides the optimal silhouette, so seek out minimal elasticity. The top should be at your waist – any style below the waist sends a relaxed message – and snug but not tight. You will wear a belt regardless (as mentioned, pay attention) and it's best if trousers ought to ever be uncomfortable. You ought to feel secure, but not compressed.

A blazer is to jeans what makeup is to a clean skin. The juxtaposition creates an outfit feel purposeful and thoughtful, which radiates self-assurance. The mix of jeans with smooth material or crepe adds interest and detail. This works paired with a blouse or casual top for day, or something slinkier for night. Choose a metal chain or a clean hoop rather than a swinging chandelier earring. It feels very Parisian, get the picture?

Denim-with-a-chic-top is a classic because it works, especially if you are stepping out for an evening out. Starting with jeans makes putting together an ensemble easier, which is convenient if it's a quick evening change. A silk camisole below your jacket is a straightforward choice that offers you choices: you might leave the layers intact if you are close to the exit with a cool draft, or slip the coat aside if you start to getting warm in heated indoor climate.

The right shoe sets the tone between laid-back polish and running errands. It need not be a high heel, although it isn't a bad idea. A classic elegant shoe with a jean is eternally chic, but loafers, clean sneakers or short boots are all good. A glimpse of bare skin somewhere is always a pleasant touch, if the climate lets you: a couple of unfastened closures on a blouse, or a strappy sandal if you are in a turtleneck pullover.

Occasionally the straightforward selection ends up to be the sophisticated choice. And when it's good enough for a film festival, it's good enough for your usual seat in a neighborhood cafe.