Ahhh, summer. The sand, the surf, the skimpiest jean shorts you can squeeze into. What’s not to love about the sultriest time of the year? Summer’s also the time when everyone loosens up and casual dressing is de rigueur – meaning denim can work almost anywhere. But just slipping into the first jeans-and-a-tee combo you find is a bit boring, so we asked our design team how they’re planning to get creative with their denim styling this summer. Here are their top 5 tips:

1. ) The 80s are back in full force, so try pairing your high waisted jeans with crop tops. Our High Class style is ideal for this.

2.) Cuff your skinny and straight leg jeans, making them into crops.

3.) We all have that pair of jeans we know we’re never gonna wear again. This summer, convert them into distressed, rolled shorts.

4.) We’re all about the DIY. Ombre your cut-off shorts (tutorial courtesy of Could I Have That?) or add studs to selected areas.

5.) Send last summer’s white jeans to Denim Therapy and get them tie dyed a la Isabel Marant’s Spring/Summer 2012 collex.

Images: The Stir, Isabel Marant, Eat Sleep Denim, Could I Have That?, This is Weeny

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on the latest fashion trends, style advice and industry news.