If you buy one item this season, make it denim. Here are our 9 favourites.

As a fashion editor, I see lots of trends come and go. Especially now, in the era of the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it micro trend. And it makes me appreciate the wardrobe essentials with true staying power that much more. As we charge ahead into the winter months and I once again reassess my closet, looking for gaps and opportunities to fill them (in other words: go shopping), I know the best place to invest is denim. It’s always denim. 

It’s the timeless closet staple that just keeps giving. With the right pair of blue jeans or the perfect oversized denim shirt, you can create literally endless outfits. And who doesn’t want that kind of sartorial mileage?

And given we’re in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, with so much uncertainty, we want clothing we can rely on — not the novelty of passing trends.

That said, there is no one size fits all when it comes to denim. Jeans shopping, in particular, is highly personal, and everyone has a set of unique preferences that come into play when selecting what styles they gel with. There’s also an overwhelming amount of choice, and it can be hard to know where to start.

When I think denim, I think Calvin Klein Jeans. My mind goes to images of iconic campaigns featuring It-girls in their Calvins: Brooke Shields. Kate Moss. Kaia Gerber. The brand knows how to cut a great jean, for sure — but its broader denim section is also equipped with everything you need to kit out a wardrobe of cool, dependable staples.

So in the interest of helping us all find our ultimate denim ‘fit, here are 9 of my favourite, truly versatile denim buys this season — plus how I’ll be styling them.

Mom Jeans, $169

Image: Calvin Klein.

Are you on the lookout for a new pair of jeans? Of course you are. We all are! We’re all looking for that Holy Grail jean that suits our every need: just the right cut, wash and colour blue to suit every top we can throw at it. Streamlined enough to dress up with a blazer and boots, but just as comfortable with a knit and sneakers. Calvin Klein's Mom jeans are all that pair of jeans. The "mom" takes its cues from the '80s, when it was all about clean, classic denim designed to fit our curves. It’s the shape everyone will be wearing this winter, so it’s no wonder this particular pair is selling fast.

90s Straight Jeans, $189

Image: Calvin Klein.

Baggy jeans have bounced back in popularity lately as an alternative to the more restrictive denim styles we all became so accustomed to. Gen Z has reclaimed this style as their own, many of them opting for ultra-loose, floor grazing jeans that might not be everyone’s — well, bag. 

Though their silhouette is borrowed from the '90s, these Calvin Klein jeans offer a more grown-up take on the trend thanks to their tapered cuff. I’d style them with a tucked-in tee, puffer jacket and cap for busy weekends.

Cropped Denim Puffer Jacket, $379

Image: Calvin Klein.

This is one of those jackets you’ll wonder how you ever got dressed without — a wardrobe investment that’ll serve for years to come. I’ve been looking for a new winter puffer, but struggling to find one that feels unique. I love this option for its cosy cotton denim finish and cropped cocoon shape. It also comes in blue denim, but the black feels sporty enough to team with my activewear. Obsessed.

Authentic Bootcut Jeans, $169

Image: Calvin Klein.

With the fashion media declaring boho is officially "back", I think it’s safe to say a flare resurgence is on its way. If you want to dip a leg in the trend, without going full flower child, these vintage-inspired bootcut jeans are a great option — they’re lean through the leg, with a slight flare towards the ankle. A black denim wash feels modern, and provides a streamlined base for a bold chunky cardigan or faux fur jacket.

Denim Maxi Skirt, $169

Image: Calvin Klein.

You know those pieces that become the unexpected styling heroes of your closet? You might find you feel that way about a denim maxi skirt. Another '90s comeback kid, the style has had a fashion glow-up but rest assured, it’s still super wearable. For winter outfits, it’s the change-up from jeans you’re sometimes craving, while giving that hit of clean denim. The silhouette works really well with a belted jacket, and the front split gives more range of movement so you can wear it with boots or sneakers through the cooler months.

Authentic Slim Straight Jeans, $169.

Image: Calvin Klein.

I can’t over-emphasise the traction you’ll get out of a pair of inky blue, straight-leg jeans. Ultra wearable thanks to their higher rise and slim cut, they’re a styling powerhouse and should be at the top of your to-buy list. Especially if you’re after a "dressier" jean to wear to the office or out to dinner. I can see these with a turtleneck and a faux leather bomber jacket, along with some chic ballet pumps.

High Rise Straight Jeans, $179

Image: Calvin Klein.

There’s a reason this style is a classic. My top pick for a day-to-day jean, the archival 1978 style is designed to nip you in at the waist and elongate the legs. Maximise the retro vibes and pair it with an oversized sweatshirt and lots of gold jewellery, or try half-tucking a denim shirt and adding some white sneakers for an effortless double denim look. 

Belted Denim Shirt Dress, $199

Image: Calvin Klein.

I’m very into "one and done dressing" — pieces you can pop on and you’re practically out the door. A denim dress can do that for you, and this one ticks all the best boxes. It’s the perfect shade of light blue, it’s belted to add more shape through the waist if you want it, and it’s easy to layer for chillier days. I love that it can be styled in multiple ways for every season.

Denim Dad Shirt, $229

Image: Calvin Klein.

Not all denim shirts are created equal, and this one’s on the 'spendier' side for a reason. It’s made in a rigid cotton denim that’s as hardy as it looks, with a considered oversized fit that’s flattering on everyone. Again, it’s one of those items that will last and last, carving out its own dedicated space in your closet. The powder-blue denim also gives a nod to the whole country and western aesthetic that’s on every celebrity stylist’s moodboard this year. Wear it over a white tank with faux leather pants for a chic take on the look of the moment.

Shop Calvin Klein denim online or from Myer, David Jones & The Iconic. Sign-up as a VIP to receive 10 per cent off your first purchase.

Feature Image: Calvin Klein.