Butter Yellow Jeans Are Summer’s Alternative To Blue Denim

After years of being maligned as a relic of the 2010s, colored jeans are back in fashion, with this season’s most popular pairs arriving in hues like tomato red, ballet pink, and butter yellow. The latter, in particular, is having a moment this summer, with sunny shades spanning pale lemon, custard, and primrose.

Colored jeans may seem like a statement piece, but, when styled with restraint, yellow denim is surprisingly versatile. A buttery drawstring jean (another major denim trend this season) worn with a cotton T-shirt, mesh tote bag, and flat sandals has the same throw-on ease as white denim. A wide-leg pair, styled with an button-down, knit, or blazer balances the sweetness of the pastel for the office.

Blue jeans will always have a place in the wardrobe rotation, but this season, consider giving your go-to denim silhouette a mood lift. Ahead, ideas for outfits centered on yellow jeans for every occasion, from casual weekends to vacation dressing and summer nights out.

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Tonal Hues

Lean all the way into yellow with a top in a similar shade to your jeans. The monochrome palette makes the jeans feel grown-up, while neutral accessories keep the look elegant. Finish the tonal ensemble with gold jewelry to enhance the sunniness of the hue.

Prep Perfect

Yellow cargo jeans offer a sportier, more utilitarian way into the trend, especially when styled with classic pieces. A striped polo shirt gives the look a preppy feel; leather loafers keep it further on-theme. Add a suede bag to bring in texture and soften the casualness of the cargos.

Rich Contrast

For a bolder approach, pair wide-leg yellow jeans with a chocolate brown shirt, which balances the brightness of the denim. A red handbag adds an unexpected pop of color, while ballet flats keep the look sophisticated (and even work-appropriate).

Weekend Uniform

Drawstring yellow jeans offer the ease of lounge pants with the cool of denim. Style them with a white tee, mesh tote, and leather flip-flops for a casual warm-weather outfit that works for errands, an outdoor stroll, or a weekend lunch.

After Dark

When paired with a going-out top, yellow jeans can also work for a night on the town. Start with a silky halter top, and finish with heels and statement jewelry to shift the denim firmly into evening territory.

Classic Cool

Treat pale yellow jeans as you would white. Pair them with a tank top, sneakers, and a jean jacket for an outfit that feels casual and effortlessly cool. If you want something lighter, swap the denim jacket for an oversized button-down.

Tailored Take

For a more fashion-forward take, style wide-leg yellow jeans with an oversized blazer. Trendy wedge heels add height and balance the volume, while sculptural silver jewelry adds a modern touch.

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