This jeans alternative is so easy to style…

Looking for a more polished jeans alternative? Today I’m sharing casual and dressed-up outfit ideas with coated denim jeans in warm and cool palettes.

Casual outfits with coated denim jeans

Leather and faux leather are a big trend this fall. But leather can be pricey, and faux leather can be hit-or-miss when it comes to quality and appearance. Coated or “waxed” denim is an alternative that can have a similar look to leather at (usually) a fraction of the price. It’s been around for several years, but this year is widely available in a variety of cuts.

If you’re a jeans lover like me, coated jeans are worth trying. They look more polished than traditional denim, but are just as easy to style. Above, I’ve shown a casual look in a warm palette (Spring/Autumn), and here’s one in a cool (Winter) palette.

(Summers, I’m keeping eyes open for a some options in your colors.)

I’ve tried on several pairs of coated jeans over the last few seasons; here are a few of my tips and what to consider:

  • Fit. As with my blue jeans, I prefer a straight leg style that’s slim but not skin-tight. Any jean that’s not 100% cotton will stretch out a little with wear, so you’ll want to start with a fit that’s a little snug, but not constricting.
  • Comfort. You’ll want to be able to sit and move with ease, so avoid any pairs that feel too heavy or stiff.
  • Care. Most styles I’ve seen recommend dry cleaning. But unless you get a serious spill or stain, you can probably just spot-clean if needed in between wearings.

Here are a few more styles to consider:

As shown above, you can wear these with more casual looks, just as you would with blue jeans. But they can also be a good dressed-up alternative…

Dressy outfits with coated denim jeans

Above, a “going out” look in a warm palette. You can dial the formality up or down with shoes & accessories.

For you Winters, here’s a simple-but-dressed-up look with a velvet blazer…

👉 Style tip: unless your style is very glam or “rockstar,” I’d avoid wearing these coated jeans with other leather or faux-leather clothing items. I like to mix up the textures as I’ve done in each of these outfit collages.

I have one pair in a slightly cropped bootcut style, which you can see HERE, and have that straight leg style in the warm collages above on order to try.

Have you tried coated denim?

Coming to L.A…a color event with Red Leopard!

In case you missed yesterday’s Instagram LIVE, Manina and I dropped a bit announcement: she’s coming to Los Angeles, and we’re going to be hosting a color event on November 12th & 13th!

We have 16 spots available for a personal color analysis, which will be happening at Jonathan Novak Gallery in Century City. Brian Haugen will be there to help with makeup, and Tarra Rosenbaum will be joining us with some of her stunning jewelry. It’s going to be a lot of fun!

Each session takes about 2 hours, and at the end you’ll receive a lovely leather color wallet, with your seasonal palette. Cost for the personalized color analysis is $450. Having my color analysis was the best wardrobe investment I’ve ever made, and (I’m not exaggerating) was a life-changing experience! I hope you’ll be able to join us.

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19 Comments

  1. Hi Susan! Best of luck and fun with your event in November! I wish I could make it.
    I’m liking the idea of coated ‘jeans’ especially for winter but in truth I’m sick of the high waist (doesn’t work for me) and the cropped lengths. I’ll go looking for mid rise straight leg coated jeans/pants but wonder if you have any suggestions to add. Thank you!

  2. Good luck with the colour analysis event. We both know you’re going to enjoy Manina’s visit and expertise. Lucky clients who are attending.
    I almost choked on my Cheerios when seeing the prices of the two beautiful scarves… very pricey.
    But perhaps you chose them as aspirational ideas. I’m not sure I’d want MAX MARA emblazoned on my silk scarf so obviously.
    Loved the outfits you put together, Susan. You have an excellent eye for style and colour.

    1. Thanks! The scarves were primarily chosen for the colors and to convey an idea. You can often find lovely silk scarves at budget-friendly prices from thrift & vintage stores, or museum gift shops.

      1. Thank you! I would like to book my daughter, as well. I have an important question before I book. Would it be possible to email with you privately or speak on the phone?

  3. Thanks for the post on coated jeans. I’ve always wanted to try a pair but didn’t like the thought of dry cleaning jeans. I noticed the Frame jeans in your cool color palate are machine washable. Keep us posted on the coated jeans you order!

  4. Hi Susan,I really enjoy your blog posts and Thank You for all the great ideas, especially your Travel Blog! I am going to be traveling to Amsterdam and Belgium in a few days and I have a question about where to put my protein bars? I will be taking carryon and 1 checked bag. I checked the airline website,but didn’t get a straight answer.
    Thank You!

    1. Hi Denise, Oh, I’m so envious! It should be a lovely time to visit. I always keep 2-3 protein bars in my carry-on bag, just in case. I’ve never had security raise an issue, as they’re not liquids.

  5. hi Susan
    I was subscribed to your weekly blog but I’m not seeing it anymore and have to catch up on FB. If I have inadvertently unsubscribed, please add me back.
    thanks!

    1. Hi Kathleen, I see that your subscription is still active and you are being sent emails. Have you checked your spam folder by any chance? Sometimes email platforms adjust their filters and things can suddenly start getting flagged as spam. You can also try adding info @ unefemme.net to your “preferred” or “safe” senders list. If those actions don’t work, please let me know.

      1. yes – this is what has happened to my account, as well. I just “re-subscribed” … I’ve also “allowed” it to go to my inbox. hopefully this will solve the issue! thanks for the excellent content, susan!!

  6. I bought a pair of black coated jeans from NYDJ several years ago, and they are machine washable. I’ve washed them numerous times & they came out fine. I put them in the dryer for just a minute or two, then take out to hang dry. Love them! Will have to look out for another pair in a different color.

  7. Rats… I had two pairs of Boss coated jeans. One in green and one in burgundy and I gave them away. Bummer.
    Greetje