Here’s a Brand-New Way to Wear Your Denim Jacket

Model Liu Wen in Madewell’s denim look book. (Photo: Madewell)

As much as we love our favorite worn-in denim jacket, it’s not exactly the most exciting piece of clothing we own. Sure, it’s a classic. It looks cool, it’s great for layering, and it keeps us warm when there’s a slight chill in the air. Other than that, though, it just sits there on our shoulders — or, occasionally, tied around our waist by the sleeves.

But not anymore. The masterminds at Madewell have invented a new way to both keep your denim jacket on your body and keep the street style photogs guessing. (See the photo above, as featured in Madewell’s summer 2016 denim look book.)

As you’ve likely gathered, it involves wrapping an upside-down denim jacket (in this case, the brand’s “summer jean jacket,” $110) around your waist and fastening the bottom button to keep it in place. Ta-da: Instant denim jacket peplum! Instant exaggerated denim belt thing! Instant … fashion statement!!!!

Sure, it looks a little odd at first glance. But it’s actually pretty practical. Because if your jacket has short sleeves — or maybe you’re wearing a vest instead — how else are you supposed to air out while keeping it on your person? And, besides, Liu Wen can make anything look cool. There’s a lot to consider here, all in all.

Will you be trying out Madewell’s nouveau denim jacket styling trick, or would it be better suited for the runway, à la Balenciaga’s off-the-shoulder puffers and Rick Owens’s human backpacks?

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