The denim shirt is one of those casual pieces that’s more versatile than it initially appears because it works both as an actual shirt and as a light jacket in a way that very few other pieces manage. Worn open over a white tee with straight jeans it becomes an overshirt layer that adds texture and interest to a simple outfit. Worn buttoned with chinos and clean boots it works as a casual shirt in its own right. The weight of the denim matters for how it falls and drapes. A lighter chambray weight works better as an actual shirt. A heavier denim works better as an overshirt layer. We prefer a classic straight cut rather than anything too slim because the denim shirt works better with a bit of ease in it and because the overshirt use requires enough room to work comfortably over whatever’s underneath.