Does every woman need a denim jacket? Customizing the Classics

A couple of people have asked me about the widespread advice that every woman show have a denim jacket. Of course I disagree with this idea - I don't think anybody else can tell you what you should have in your wardrobe.

Traditional denim jackets can be really cool, but they're not always flattering:

Jackets – J. Crew, Rag & Bone, Acne

There's nothing particularly wrong with denim; there are a variety of options in denim that could be a lot more flattering than the traditional cropped, narrow fit.

Denim slouch coat – Topshop, denim blazer – Gucci, long denim coat – Miu Miu

Maybe the cut is okay, but the color doesn't work very well; there are denim jackets in other neutral colors that might be a lot more useful for you.

Copper denim jacket – Uniqlo, olive mixed-fabric jacket – Lucky Brand, black denim jacket – R13

Or you could get really radical and choose a jacket in a bright color, or a fun pastel.

Denim jackets - Uniqlo

Lavender denim jacket – Uniqlo, pink jacket – Superdry, mint denim jacket - Newlook

And for many of us, a cardigan in a neutral color will provide that essential warm layer, and finished appearance, without the "hardness" of a denim jacket.

Cardigans - Uniqlo

Any suggestion of a "must-have" item is worth thinking about, if only to find the germ of the idea that could be useful for you.  In this case, a multi-purpose, not too dressy, not too warm layer to pull over a variety of outfits is the gist of what is suggested.  There are a world of options; one of them is perfect for you.

Cardigan – Uniqlo, earrings – Baccarat, beigelace dress – Dolce and Gabbana,  ring – Baccarat, sandals – Chinese Laundry, floral blouse – Billie and Blossom, coral pants – MSGM, sandals – Report, bracelet – Michael Kors, bag – Madewell, sunglasses – A.P.C., mosaic print tee – Calypso St. Barth, white capris – Sportmax, sandals - Rowen