Summer can be notoriously tough for denim lovers. I'm not opposed to wearing shorts, but I will always reach for a nice pair of jeans when I can. I know you might be thinking that it's best to put them on ice until early fall, but you can wear jeans year-round ... if they're the right weight, fit and wash.

One piece of advice is to look for a pair of straight-fit or relaxed-fitting jeans. It's not that we don't endorse skinny or ill-fitting pants, but you have to let the boys breathe a bit—air circulation is key in this situation. If you're a denim head and only wear selvedge, here's some great news: You can wear pre-washed selvedge jeans just to give you a lighter weight and to help prevent some major sweat down in your undercarriage.

Denim comes in all colors these days and a nice white or cream-colored pair of jeans will look particularly sharp with some khaki tones. Think your morning latte for inspiration. Stonewashed jeans are the ideal weight for summertime. Brands like 3Sixteen, RRL and Abercrombie have nailed down the wash to give you that vintage comfort from your first wear. Also, the sun is out, so don't be afraid to have some fun. A nice painter's pants or pinstripe jeans look great, especially in a two-toned indigo colorway like the pair below from Noah. Here, we've pulled together some of our current favorite light-washed denim items. Take your pick.