Divine Denim

Breathe life into your basic denim with embroidery, patches and all the flair.

Madewell x JM Drygoods denim shorts, White trenchcoat c/o Marna Ro (similar here), Z Supply tshirt, Quay Kitti sunglasses, Brian Atwood fringe bag (similar here), Jaden sandals c/o Schutz. Shot by Cheralee Lyle in Bryant Park.

Denim shorts & summer go together like happy hour & oysters: they're an undeniable combination that work unquestionably well together. But, if you're anything like me, you've amassed a drawer full of denim cutoffs that are starting to look a little too alike. Other than variations in color, length and the level of distressing, it's tough to find a pair jorts that are truly unique... until now. 

Cut to these Madewell embroidered shorts above, the latest addition to my denim collection. I'm obsessed with their slightly longer hemline and the fun pops of color that they add to my otherwise all neutral look. In the same way that leather jackets and accessories covered in patches, buttons and flair are as trendy as ever, embellished denim shorts are having their moment in the summer sun.

The best part? If you can't find a pair you love in stores, they're a super easy DIY! Just find some patches, pieces of fabric or lace, sew or iron them on, et voila! Your denim cutoffs are reborn. Need a little creative inspo? Check out the street style pics I found after the jump. 

xL

Image credits above: 1. Getty images via Stylecaster // 2. Express // 3. Glamradar // 4. Urban Outfitters Spring catalog // 5. Zara.