8 Perfect Denim Shades for Autumn and Fall
Burgundy • Brown • Tan • Mustard • Khaki • More ...
Denim never goes out of style, and if you're wondering what shades you should be sporting this season, let guest contributor Lorna Burford be your guide! As the air gets crisp and the leaves turn those rich, golden shades of orange, it's the perfect time to start layering. One of the absolute staple pieces in any autumn wardrobe is a reliable pair of jeans. Autumn is truly one of the best times of the year for denim because you get to work with an amazing, warm color palette that feels both cozy and chic.
I definitely have a bit of a jeans obsession myself, and it was such an honor to be included in one of All Women Stalk's best denim blog round-ups! Having worked in the denim industry for about seven years, I’ve seen trends come and go, but these essentials remain timeless. Here are the best denim shades to elevate your fall style.
| Shade | Best Paired With | Vibe | | --- | --- | --- | | Burgundy | Black, White, Cream | Bold & Sophisticated | | Mustard | Earth Tones, Navy | Warm & Playful | | Indigo | Anything! | Classic & Polished |1. Burgundy
This deep and intense maroon shade has been a favorite for years, but it has recently exploded as a must-have in the fashion market. Almost everyone now owns something in burgundy, and nearly every brand has released stunning pieces in this pretty tone. Believe it or not, burgundy is actually my favorite shade for jeans. I have numerous pairs in various tones of deep red, and I wear them constantly because they blend so seamlessly with the natural tones of autumn. Pairing burgundy skinny jeans with black and white is a classic combination that looks effortless on everyone.
2. Brown
It may seem like an incredibly obvious choice for the season, but brown jeans are often overlooked. Don't worry—brown denim actually looks incredible when styled correctly. They have a versatile tone that pairs well with almost anything in your closet. Whether you choose an earthy brown with green undertones or a rich, chocolatey brown with red undertones, they all look fabulous when the temperature drops.
3. Tan
Similar to brown, but with more yellow and golden hues, tan is a shade that looks amazing when paired with burgundy or mustard. It's a remarkably warm shade and one that I personally can't be without during the fall months. I love tan-colored jeans just as much as I love my favorite tan leather bags and boots! If you're looking for more ways to style these tones, check out our guide on perfect denim shades.
4. Mustard
While mustard might not be as universally popular as some other autumnal shades, it's one that works surprisingly well. If you aren't quite ready to give up the bright, sunny colors of summer, mustard is the perfect transitional shade. It still has that intense, cheerful hue, but it's slightly more muted, making it perfect for matching the changing leaves.
5. Khaki
For those who prefer more classic neutrals over bolder colors, khaki is a fantastic choice. It's incredibly versatile and offers a more polished look than standard cargo pants. A denim version of khaki looks pulled together and timeless, especially when you find pairs with unique details like zippers to add a bit of an edge. Skinny khaki pants were made famous years ago by brands like J Brand with their iconic Houlihan design, and the trend has remained a staple ever since.
6. Grey
Grey is such a versatile color! I don't think there is a single shade it doesn't complement. It’s as classic as black but less intense, keeping your outfits feeling a bit lighter and more airy. It makes a perfect neutral base, particularly in denim form. Grey skinny jeans are a personal favorite that I find myself reaching for on a regular basis. They are perfect for those days when you want something different from your usual blue or black denim.
7. Black
Black denim can be worn year-round, regardless of the season, but it feels particularly right for autumn. If you start with a pair of black skinny jeans—whether they are plain or have a sleek waxed finish—you can easily layer in other seasonal colors to complete your look. I love pairing my black jeans with burgundy cardigans, cozy coats, or even deep purple hues for a sophisticated fall aesthetic.
8. Indigo
Finally, we have the most classic of them all. Just like black, indigo is a year-round staple and perhaps the most essential denim wash you can own. This dark blue provides an amazing foundation for any color or fabric you want to pair with it. When shopping, try to find an indigo with a slight sheen; it adds extra depth and makes the denim look truly luxurious.
Are you ready to try out one of these eight denim options this season? If you're ever feeling stuck on how to style your jeans, searching for fashion inspiration online is a great way to get creative and find new combinations.
- Mix textures like wool and leather with your denim.
- Don't be afraid to try monochromatic looks with different shades of the same color.
- Accessorize with warm metallics like gold or bronze.