Denim and summer? To some, the pairing is the antithesis of seasonal dressing. Aren’t linen and cotton where our focus should be when temperatures start to rise? Sure, those fabrics might be the best at staving off the heat, but what denim lacks in breathability it more than makes up for in laid-back versatility. To most, especially those living in less reliable climates, denim is a summer saviour. The casual friend on which to peg our crisp white T-shirt or oversized shirt and the perfect medium for a jacket that breaks the wind without breaking a sweat. And that’s not even to mention denim shorts…

There are always new ways to keep even the most faithful favourites fresh, however, so we’ve pulled together three looks featuring some of our most wanted summer denim – and other picks currently making their way onto our Wish List. Whether this simply serves as inspiration or you want to go ahead and recreate a whole fit, we hope that next time the sun shines, you’ll see denim in a new light.

First things first, if you’re wearing jeans during warm weather, then it goes without saying that you should opt for a looser fit. A pale shade or stonewash is ideal, and even better with a little sun-bleaching or faded detailing, such as the Mick jeans from SAINT LAURENT.

Leaning into the vintage look, which denim does so well, we’ve paired them with a white tank (with obligatory neck chain) and embroidered geometric print shirt by Casablanca. The design of the latter is inspired by patterned suits worn by afrobeat musician Mr Fela Kuti. A pair of retro sneakers to top it off and we’re good to go – for beers on the terrace.

OK, jean shorts might scream dadcore (or hardcore screamo) to you, but there’s more to this truly timeless item than just cut-offs. Our key piece of advice here is to go for a looser style that feels a little more youthful and directional, such as this pair by Rhude. This will ensure your choice of jorts feels intentional rather than consequential.

Since we’re working with a board-short silhouette, style them accordingly – a camp-collared shirt over a tee (floral broderie anglaise brings a touch of chic tropicality without whacking you over the head with it), cross-body bag, slides (brushed suede, to take it up a notch) and a summery bracelet.

Denim has the enviable quality of adaptability. It is just as happy as an outer layer as it is under, which is why we suggest a denim shirt jacket as one of your top summer buys.

This stonewashed shacket by Marni is peppered with embroidery and knitted appliqué patches and would look just as well thrown over a T-shirt as it does when worn buttoned-up, as we’ve styled it here. A printed silk crepe de chine bandana under the collar continues the creative bent of the ensemble while also handily mopping up any wayward perspiration.

Now is not the time for double denim, so we’ve gone for roomy cotton-canvas trousers in cream and classic boat shoes. We’re envisioning Nile cruise at golden hour – sounds nice, right?