With the sunny spring season finally here, fashionistas are scrambling to beef up their wardrobes with some new spring styles. When we think of spring, one of the first thoughts that comes to mind is floral. Flowers and pastels are practically synonymous with springtime, and while these two looks are sure to play a large part in spring outfits, there is another big trend that is taking the season by storm this year.

Denim.

What was once just a term we used to describe jean pants is now a force in the fashion industry in the form of every garment possible. Hats, shirts, dresses—you name it, and it’s got a newly created denim version. Now, when you think of wearing denim in anything other than a pair of pants, you might get a skeevy flashback to that awful photo of Britney Spears and JT at the 2001 AMAs. But rest assured, there will be none of that ill-advised fashion in this post!

Contrary to what people might think, there are actually a few ways you can make denim look cool this spring.

You can choose to wear an easy denim dress, for example. Though you (again) might be nervous you’ll be pulling a Britney, just keep modern design in mind, and you’ll be fine. A good way to make sure you’re staying on-trend and not wandering back to the archives is to get your information from somewhere that is strictly fashion-forward. By limiting your outlets to places that carefully curate their selections, you can be sure that anything you choose will be stylish. Yes, it’s possible for light wash to be stylish!

Another way to rock denim is to go all out and layer two different washes. Double denim can be a very chic look if you do it correctly, and that means not choosing two denim washes that match. They should contrast. You can also choose to break up the jean fabrics by layering in a couple other accent pieces to mix it up a bit. Pieces like flannel and leather go great when combined with denim, so use your creativity to make your outfit work for you.

If double denim is too bold for you, you might want to try a denim skirt. Denim skirts are back from the fashion graveyard. But instead of the jean mini skirts we remember from the early 2000s, the style scene is rewinding a little further with high-waisted, retro varieties. Since ‘70s style is back, the high-waisted denim skirt is a trendy choice and looks killer with crop tops. The feminine cut will flatter your figure by cinching your waist, and what’s better for spring than a flirty skirt? Pair it with an off-the-shoulder floral top, and you’ll be ready for springtime, no doubt.

There’s no reason to be nervous about trying to wear the denim trend. There are enough techniques that you can find a style that suits your fashion identity. Just remember to keep things modern, and if you need to, use inspiration photos (like ones below). It always helps to see how other people style things so that you can get an idea of how you might do it differently.

How are you planning on wearing denim this Spring?

 Guest Editorial by Jessie Barrett.