We’re coming to that part of January that feels particularly, well, January-ish. The light is low, the weather is cold and motivating yourself to get dressed is a serious struggle. Thankfully, there is a fail-safe solution to seeing through the end of the month in style: the right pair of jeans. The last few years have seen denim elevated from a casual, cheat-day piece to a veritable wardrobe hero – and with good reason. Right now, it’s all about those little styling tricks that make jeans look high fashion, too – wearing them with a boxy blazer, mixing it up with double denim (it’s more wearable than you think), contrasting a more casual straight leg with a cropped ladylike jacket. The looks below are accessible but they have a little je ne sais quoi to perk us up as we wait for spring to arrive, and our seasonal affective disorder to pass. 

Main image: Instagram @clairerose.

See through the end of January in denim overalls – just make sure they’re cinched at the waist and add a classic shirt.

Dress things up with embellished flats (just add socks). 

Contrast light-wash denim with a statement black coat. 

Jeans and a leather jacket are a perennially cool combination.

Double denim? Yes, it’s still a thing and yes, it can be elegant. Just add a silk scarf and a killer handbag.

Put an edgy spin on a ladylike cropped jacket with wide-leg jeans and loafers.

Nothing beats jeans and a boxy blazer.

High-necked knits and straight-leg jeans for the win.

The perfect denims and a Chanel tote: is there anything more classic?