5 fabrics to try when you’re tired of denim

Jeans have come a long way in history from being workwear for laborers in the 1800s to an American fashion staple since the 1950s. They’re reliable, practical, and go with just about anything. But even classics get old when worn every day. If you find yourself wanting to break out of the casual look, you can achieve that by swapping denim for other fabrics.

Give your jeans a break with these five denim alternatives.

1. Silk or Satin

Silk or satin will give you the opposite feel of denim. Swap your stiff jeans for this lightweight fabric that will drape over your body elegantly. Wear a warm turtle neck and full-length silk skirt for cool weather or satin trousers and a blouse on a spring night out. Although satin is known for fancy occasions, it can be dressed down with sneakers or flat sandals. Either way, you’ll look and feel smooth in this chic fabric.

2. Faux Suede

Another chic fabric with an even richer feel is faux suede. It’s unique in providing a smooth, fuzzy textile combined with a matte finish. Made from polyester or microfiber, this velvety fabric will hug your body with the right amount of warmth. Therefore, take advantage of suede during transitional months with a suede trench coat as opposed to a denim jacket. Or pair your favorite boots with suede pants instead of jeans.

3. Corduroy

Go retro with a 70s-inspired corduroy outfit. This fun fabric is woven into vertical ribs for striped texture and a cotton blend that provides a plush, cozy feel. A common fit for these pants is bell-bottoms. So if you like bell-bottom jeans, you’ll enjoy them in corduroy form with an array of colors to choose from. Another fun way to sport corduroy is with an overall corduroy dress, perfect for fall when worn with a turtleneck underneath and warm booties.

4. Faux leather

Faux leather is the way to go for instant edge that’ll provide sleekness in a matte or polished finish. Leather can be dressed up with silk tops and heels or dressed down with a tee and sneakers. Try trouser-cut leather pants with suede ankle boots for a sophisticated look, or curve-hugging leather leggings and heels for a shapely look. In warmer months, there are leather shorts and skirts that’ll replace denim summer bottoms.

5. Linen

The ultimate summer fabric this year is linen. It’s lightweight and breathable because of its flax plant fibers, which are a lifesaver when the weather gets too hot. The slightly textured natural feel of linen will give you an earthy appeal and laid-back fit. Linen trousers, wide-leg pants, or flowy jumpsuits can be dressed up with a tucked silk tank or a blazer, or dressed down with a cotton tee. A linen set is perfect for an easy way to look put together with comfort. However you wear it, you’ll be happy you wore this breathable alternative on a hot day!

Fashion is more than just denim. With a versatile collection of fabrics in your closet, you’ll have plenty of options to match your mood. From smooth satin to cozy corduroy, there are enough options to get out of a denim style rut. Refresh your style with these new alternatives for a wardrobe you’ll never get bored with.