Denim? At the office? If you’ve pondered this thought more than once, you’re not alone. In theory, it sounds like a grand idea but the execution of the look is where things can get tricky. As a purveyor of modern, polished jeans, we like to think of ourselves as denim experts. So, we’ve put together a streamlined guide to the best dress jeans for work and how to look professional in denim, from a business casual creative setting to a corporate corner office.  

Dark Wash Jeans 

When contemplating the best jeans for the office, classic, dark-wash jeans will no doubt stand the test of time in terms of style relevancy. The richly refined look of darker rinses, from black to deep blue, is effortlessly dressy and suits office settings and business casual occasions alike.

Expert tips: Choose a saturated, dark-wash pair like the Charisma Relaxed Straight Jeans In Ink Urban, with little to no distressing, e.g. rips, tears and raw edges. Opt for a mid to high-rise silhouette with a comfortable, tailored fit. 

Style note: We love a dark-wash pair like the Charisma Rinse Vintage styled with a lighter chambray button-down and finished with leather accessories. For a dressier option, try black jeans with a classic white button-down and a tonal blazer. 

Great Greys

Break away from traditional blue and black styles with a pair of grey denim or pants. This alternative feels less casual and more like khakis while still offering the comfort of a pair of jeans. 

Expert tips: Look for structure and a slight stretch. Try cuffing the hems for a modern, urban vibe.

Style note: Make grey jeans work for work by pairing yours with a crisp button-down shirt and tailored jacket. Finish with classic leather loafers.

Non-Denim Denim 

An ideal alternative to khakis for business casual is what we like to call the non-denim options. They’re not khakis and they’re not jeans, but they cleverly combine the inherent polish of the former with the casual comfort of the latter. A range of colors from subtle to bold combined with ultra-soft fabric elevate these five-pocket styles with sophistication and serious office potential. 

Expert tips: Professional jeans should fit neatly and comfortably. We recommend choosing a timeless comfort-rise and relaxed straight-leg silhouette in one of our twill pants. 

Style note: Treat these styles as you would khakis and wear yours with a simple crewneck sweater and polished leather shoes. Add on a tailored jacket for dressier meetings and events.

Our picks: Charisma Dawn Twill, Charisma Navy Twill

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