Denim, once favoured by cowboys, country singers and punk rockers, has had a makeover this season.

The rugged fabric has been made into handbags, shoes and even jewellery.

This season, it also comes in bright shades of red, yellow and pink.

Celebrities and fashion It girls have cottoned on quickly to the look - British TV presenter Alexa Chung graced the March cover of British Vogue clad head to toe in denim while American actress Jessica Biel wore a denim jacket over a denim vest in the February issue of American Vogue.

Here are 10 tips on how to work the hot trend so you don't get the (fashion) blues.

1: Pay attention to the wash or treatment of the denim. If you have wide hips or chunky thighs, avoid denim fabrics with horizontal acid washes. Opt for washes that run down your leg instead to create the illusion of slimmer gams.

2: When choosing white denim, take note of the fit. White denim that fits too tightly can look tacky as the colour tends to highlight figure flaws.

Pair white denim with tops in darker colours to create visual balance if you are on the big side.

3: Ultra-short denim shorts are for those blessed with long gams.

For those who are not of supermodel calibre, go for a pair with a slightly looser fit that end at least 15cm below the crotch to avoid looking trashy or dumpy - or both.

4: Try coloured jeans besides the usual blue, black and grey. Choose light shades of yellow or lilac - this season's hottest colours. If you are up to it, dial it up with bright red jeans but pair them with a white or light-coloured top.

5: Denim mini-skirts are tricky to pull off. The most flattering denim skirts have a slight A-line cut and fall mid-thigh so they do not hug your hips too tightly.

Those with rounder bottoms can look for options made of a combination of spandex and lycra for a more comfortable fit.

6: If your office dress code allows it, a pair of dark denim jeans with a clean wash is the best option for work. Pair it with a simple camisole and throw on a structured jacket for a more professional look.

7: When choosing accessories to match your denim, keep in mind the outfit's design.

If it is simple and in a single tone, chunky gold or silver jewellery adds edge and makes it a little dressier.

Conversely, embellished denim outfits should be paired with simple accessories so you don't look over-the-top.

8: Juxtapose the ruggedness of your denim outfit with feminine accessories such as strands of pearls or dainty pendants or brooches.

9: While head-to-toe denim looks are hot on the runways, it is hard to pull off the look without looking ridiculous.

If you must, play with denim pieces of different colours.

10: Denim shoes are very trendy right now but they can get a tad warm.

Go for strappy denim footwear or denim shoes made of a cotton twill blend so your feet can breathe.