For some reason I can’t seem to part with my denim—jeans, jean jackets, and anything else made from that trusty fabric—even when I haven’t worn those pieces in years. Case in point: there’s a drawer in my dresser with a pile of denim I haven’t touched in ages.
Instead of throwing them away, I started looking for creative ways to refresh and repurpose the denim I already own. After a bit of digging I found plenty of simple, stylish projects that breathe new life into old pieces. If you’ve got forgotten denim hiding in the back of your closet, try one of these 13 ideas to update it and make it feel like new.
13 Ways to Upgrade Your Denim Right Now
1. Start with a super-easy DIY drop-hem jeans tutorial. It’s a quick way to refresh an existing pair and save money while getting a modern look.
2. Turn an old pair of jeans into a chic denim skirt. With a few cuts and some basic sewing you can make a skirt that feels brand new.
3. Give a denim jacket a colorful update with fringe. Adding fringe creates movement and personality without much effort.
4. Splatter-paint makeovers are fun and forgiving. A splattered denim jacket feels playful and modern and is an easy DIY if you like bold textures.
5. Try a quilted applique on a denim jacket for a crafted, cozy look. Quilted patches add dimension and a handmade feel that works great for summer layers.
6. Side stripes are a quick way to modernize a pair of mom jeans. No-sew stripe additions give a sporty-chic edge without altering the original fit.
7. Make the perfect pair of denim cut-off shorts. There are multiple techniques for creating casual, flattering cut-offs from existing jeans.
8. Refresh a denim skirt two different ways for a fresh look—simple adjustments can update the silhouette and detailing for a renewed style.
9. Convert regular jeans into relaxed-fit boyfriend jeans by adjusting the cut and adding strategic distressing—an easy way to create a trendier silhouette.
10. Embroidery on denim is a subtle but powerful update. Simple stitched motifs can turn a plain pair of jeans into a statement piece.
11. Add fabric panels or printed fabric to a jacket for a bold upcycled look. Fabric inserts can change the personality of a piece with color and pattern.
12. Hand-embroidered jean shorts or patches are versatile—you can apply the same embroidery techniques to jackets, pockets, or hems for a personalized finish.
13. Learn to hand-embroider messages or simple designs on denim for a meaningful, custom touch. A small stitched phrase or icon can transform a jacket or pair of jeans into something truly yours.
Do you have denim you’ve been meaning to update? Which of these projects would you try this summer?