The trend of incorporating denim jeans into workwear has gained traction in offices, and we’re loving it! This shift adds more variety and creativity to office outfits, allowing for personal expression while maintaining a professional vibe.
However, with this new trend comes the need to choose the right denim that still aligns with office standards. It's about wearing denim without compromising professionalism in your look.
Read on to discover the best denim jean styles for the office and how to incorporate them into your work wardrobe.
Choosing the Right Jeans Fit and Cut for the Office
Choosing the right jeans for work isn’t as simple as grabbing whatever’s closest to you. It’s about making sure they’re still suitable for the office.
That’s why selecting the right fit and cut is crucial. Avoid overly baggy styles and instead opt for relaxed or straight-leg fits. The cut should fall gracefully toward the ankle—avoid cropped styles to maintain a polished, chic look. Distressed denim? Definitely not for the office.
When it comes to wash and quality, dark-coloured denim is your best bet. Skip the light-wash jeans or any bold, pastel colours. Aim for jeans that are comfortable, flattering, and most importantly, work-appropriate.
Top Denim Jeans Styles for the Office
Here are the ideal denim jean styles to incorporate into your workwear wardrobe. These options are perfect for meetings, presentations, casual workdays, and anything in between. They provide a chic yet professional look that’s perfectly suited for the office.
Straight-leg jeans
Straight-leg jeans are a classic, versatile option for the office. Offering a perfect blend of casual and professional, they come in various fabrics and colours, making them ideal for most work settings. Their timeless appeal allows you to get creative with your top while maintaining a polished look.
Shop short jeans here: Short Coloured Jeans Black, Regular Jeans DARK INDIGO, Wonder Denim Regular Jeans Black Slate, Straight leg Wonder Denim Jeans DARK INDIGO
Slim-fit jeans
These jeans offer a streamlined, tailored look, making them an excellent choice for the office. Pair them with a professional blouse or blazer to create a chic, polished outfit.
Bootcut jeans
With a slight flare at the bottom, bootcut jeans provide a balanced silhouette. They’re perfect for pairing with heels or boots, giving you a sophisticated and flattering office-ready look.
When it comes to wash, dark-wash and neutral-coloured jeans are the most work-appropriate options. These versatile shades pair effortlessly with a crisp white button-down blouse, simple tops, and structured blazers, creating a polished and professional look.
Jeans for Every Frame: Office Styles for Short and Tall Women
If you're struggling to find denim jeans that fit your frame, whether you have short or long legs, Ballentynes Fashion Central offers a collection of work-appropriate options. From dark-wash to neutral-coloured jeans in straight-leg and relaxed fits, these styles are tailored for both short and tall women, ensuring you find the perfect pair for the office.
Shop short denim jeans here:
Regular Coloured Denim Jeans NAVY,
Xtra Short Coloured Denim Jeans Black,
Short Jeans DARK INDIGO,
Wonder Denim Short Jeans Black Slate
Shop tall denim jeans here: Wonder Denim Regular Jeans Black Slate, Straight leg Wonder Denim Jeans DARK INDIGO
Denim for the Office: Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make jeans look formal?
To make jeans look formal, pair them with traditional business attire. A well-fitted blazer, a crisp button-down shirt, and dress shoes can elevate your jeans into a professional ensemble. Stick to dark-wash denim and avoid distressing or fading to maintain a polished, work-appropriate look.
How do I make my jeans work appropriate?
To make your jeans work-appropriate, opt for a dark wash with a clean, tailored fit. Pair them with professional pieces like blazers, tailored shirts, and smart shoes for a polished look. Avoid casual elements such as t-shirts, sneakers, or distressed denim to keep your outfit looking professional and office-ready.
How to wear a Polo t-shirt with jeans for the office?
Polo shirts and jeans make the perfect combination for a casual yet office-appropriate outfit. The beauty of this pairing is its versatility—you can opt for a short-sleeve polo in the summer and switch to a long-sleeve version in winter. The key is to choose well-fitted, neat pieces that maintain a professional look year-round.
Where to buy women’s denim jeans in NZ online?
A variety of clothing stores across New Zealand offer denim jeans for women suitable for the office, but at Ballentynes Fashion Central, our collection stands out. We offer a range of women’s denim jeans for work, including straight-leg, relaxed-fit, and dark-wash styles, designed to flatter all body sizes, including short women and those with longer legs. Our denim jeans are perfect for various work environments—whether it's business casual, creative casual, or a more formal professional setting. Pair them with your favorite smart-casual or business-ready chic pieces for a comfortable yet polished look.