Notes on Styling the Canadian Tuxedo—from a Canadian Denim Designer
The Canadian tuxedo is having a moment. Or, more accurately, it never left. It’s a look that feels effortless but requires just enough thought to get it right. As a denim designer (and, incidentally, a Canadian), I have a few thoughts. What else is new?
In my opinion, there are three key approaches to mastering denim-on-denim. No particular order here—just three fail-safe ways to get it right:
1. Tonal Black—Sleek, Considered, Unapologetic
Nothing feels more intentional than an all-black look. This is denim at its most refined. I belted the jacket with a vintage belt to create shape—it’s a small styling shift that transforms a boxy silhouette into something streamlined and sharp. I paired it with the Quinn Jeans in Lisbon (coming for spring), because a strong straight-leg grounds the look. The key here is polish. Don’t let casual creep in—it’s structured, deliberate, and benefits from a leather shoe with presence.
2. High Contrast—Raw Meets Stonewashed
A study in contrast. Crisp, untouched raw denim paired with something broken-in and soft. A deep indigo raw number on bottom with a stone-washed jacket, or vice versa. This combination works because it leans into denim’s lifecycle—one piece fresh, the other lived-in. Think of it as wearing a future vintage piece with a current one. This contrast should be mirrored in the styling: a white tank, strong belt, and a shoe that isn’t trying too hard.
3. Almost Matching—Perfect in Its Imperfection
Two denims, nearly identical but just off enough to keep it interesting. This is the best-case scenario. The slight variation in wash gives depth, and a sense that these pieces found each other naturally. A true one-to-one match might feel too engineered, while this feels deeply personal. Finishing touches matter here—cuff the jeans, push up the jacket sleeves. Don’t let the denim wear you.
Final Notes from a denim designer
100% cotton, always. If you missed the Robbie Jacket, find a vintage one. Check the tag.
Balance structure and ease. If the jeans are loose, define the waist. If the jacket is oversized, let it be. Don’t underestimate the power of showing a wrist while wearing an oversized garment.
Accessories make the look. A belt changes everything. Shoes set the tone.
Commit. The Canadian tuxedo isn’t meant to be subtle. Wear it with confidence.
Denim on denim is one of the coolest, timeless and most sophisticated styling moves—when done with intention. And the best part? It only gets better with time.