As white jeans are to summer, so are black jeans to winter. Just as versatile as your classic blue denim, bold black jeans are a chicer, but just as functional, option during the colder months. Black jeans can be dressed up, down, and even worn to work. Depending on the fit, they can be layered with tights or worn as leggings. Here are a few ways to wear black jeans this winter.

If you work in a more casual setting and want to elevate your favorite black jeans, don a classic button-down shirt and blazer to fit jeans into your office outfit rotation. Technically, blue jeans are a no-no at my place of business, but black jeans, when styled properly, can step in as a black trouser alternative. Since denim is a more durable fabric than thinner pant material, it’s a more protective option on those really cold days. Even with a skinny fit, you can wear tights underneath to lock in body warmth. The right pair of high-waisted jeans and control-top hose can act as shapewear, when paired together, for a streamlined silhouette.

Speaking of a streamlined fit, to create a continuous line from hip to toe, wear your black jeans with classic black booties. This being winter, stay away from stiletto-heeled boots with thin soles. Instead, opt for an insulated, waterproof pair. On the other end of the spectrum from black booties are patterned ankle boots. Animal prints like snakeskin and leopard are eye-catching and will nicely contrast against dark jeans for weekend festivities.

For a more casual weekend ensemble, try wearing black jeans with a duster jacket, or coatigan and sneakers. A heavier alternative than a standard cardigan, and a much more stylish choice over a hoodie, a duster provides more coverage, while easily fitting under your standard winter coat. When paired with slip-on sneakers, a mid-weight longer knit feels cozy, yet looks quite graphic with black jeans.

Turtlenecks, standard go-to garments during winter, will look simple, yet impactful with black jeans. You can go the beatnik route with black on black, or bring in some color to pop against the dark denim. Top off your turtleneck-jeans combo with just about any outerwear, from moto-jackets to a structured blazer for a dynamic, yet still warm outfit this winter.

Whether or not you are required to wear a blazer for your job, I’d recommend every woman have at least one well-made blazer in her wardrobe. Even trendy blazers can bring that extra level of sophistication, especially when worn with black jeans. For work, blazers can elevate a jeans look on casual Fridays. For evenings out, you’ll look appropriately dressed for the occasion without having to sacrifice the comfort of denim when you top off our outfit with a blazer, be it a black cropped version, or the oversized plaid variety. Black jeans and blazers are always a winning combo.

If you want to skew a bit more romantic with your black jeans this winter, try pairing them with ultra-feminine statement blouses. Puffed sleeve tops, ruffle trim shirts, and blouses with gathered necklines rendered in lace or petite prints, are very much on trend this season and pair beautifully with black jeans. I love the idea of a frilly floral top with a black background atop darker denim; an edgy, yet whimsical take on a winter-night-out-on-the-town outfit.

Lastly, leather jackets are the quintessential partner to black jeans. You can go the classic third-act-Sandy-from-“Grease” path with a cropped motorcycle jacket, switching out the spandex leggings for your skinny black jeans. Or, take the less expected road with a faux-leather trench-style coat in standard black, or an earth tone like rust or olive green. No matter the shade, you can wear it open or cinched to balance out the shape of your go-to black jeans.

Of course, there’s nothing to stop you from wearing black jeans as you do your blue jeans. In fact, give your everyday denim a break this winter and wear a darker wash to see you through the cold and dreary days ahead.