If I know anything about fashion, it’s that jeans will always be the ultimate staple pair of trousers. They’re what you reach for when you think you’ve got nothing else to wear, when you’re going on a night out and when you’re just meeting friends in the park. They are also the one type of trousers I see French women wear on repeat, and it is obvious that they seem to know exactly how to make jeans look chic. I’ve spent plenty of time looking at how French women do it, and I’ve managed to narrow it down to six key jeans outfit formulas that they always return to.
Of course, there’s the classic blazer-and-smart-shoes combo, the relaxed white shirt and then the delicate-blouse look inspired by Jane Birkin. But there are a few others that I think you’re missing out on—ones you’ll definitely want to know about. Below, I’ve found plenty of jeans outfits to get inspiration from as well as all the pieces you might need to re-create the looks.
How French Women Style Jeans
1. Blazer + Smart Shoes
Style Notes: Camille Charrière knows a good blazer when she sees one. In fact, nearly every French woman I follow on Instagram seems to have the ability to source a chic jacket built into their DNA. This bodes well for when you want to truly elevate a pair of jeans without being too flashy. Add cool mules or a pair of sandals to finish off the look.
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No matter who you are or what your personal style is, this staple will slot seamlessly into your wardrobe.
H&M
Straight High Ankle Jeans
Blue jeans are one of the most important items to get right—H&M’s come highly recommended.
Charles & Keith
Satin Lace-Up Pointed-Toe Kitten-Heel Mules
The perfect evening shoes.
2. White Shirt + Flats
Style Notes: The white shirt is another classic staple of the French wardrobe. The most French way to wear this is to keep it unbuttoned as far as you feel comfortable, and if you flash a tiny bit of lingerie, then you’re on your way to being très French. It’s ideal for wearing with any kind of shoes, but loafers or ballet pumps are super chic.
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Jigsaw
Heritage Cotton Relaxed Shirt | White
This is truly the only shirt you’ll need this season.
Reformation
Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans
High rise + straight leg = a timeless combination.
Mango
Leather Ballerina Flats
3. Knit + Ankle Boots
Style Notes: A simple, chunky knit will always be the foundation of our transitional wardrobes. Take notes from Sabrina Socol and wear yours with a dressy ankle boot and high-waisted jeans.
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Navygrey
The Masham 03 – Oat
The large cable-knit pattern really sets this jumper apart.
HUSH
Remy Straight Slouch Jeans
If I were asked to close my eyes and picture the perfect mid-blue wash, it would look like this.
These will get a lot of wear for seasons to come.
4. Socks + Loafers
Style Notes: This is a relatively new styling trend I’ve spotted on a couple of French women, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t going to be timeless. With the loafer trend continuing to boom, take a style tip from our Gallic neighbours by wearing white or black socks with your loafers. Yep, it’s that simple.
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MOTHER
The Hustler Flood Fray High-Rise Bootcut Jeans
Jigsaw’s jeans are becoming quite the cult item, and this wide-leg shape is so current.
Arket
Sporty Cotton Socks Set of 3
I buy all my basics at Arket, even socks.
M&S Collection
Leather Loafers
Sleek loafers are having a moment, and this is a great fuss-free pair if you’re not sure about snaffle or chain details.
5. Double Denim + Heels
Style Notes: Double denim is loved by plenty of French icons, such as Caroline de Maigret and Charlotte Gainsbourg. The coolest way to wear it right now? Opt for a denim jacket with a twist (think a non-classic silhouette, oversized lapels or a belted version like Franny’s above), matching jeans and a pair of heels. Swap in a shirt if you want to go back to basics.
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MANGO
Pocketed Denim Jacket
Mango is my go-to high-street brand for refreshed retro pieces.
MANGO
High-Rise Balloon Jeans
These jeans look so much more expensive than they are.
Sezane
Alexane Mary Janes – Polished Camel – Patent Goatskin Leather – Sézane
A typical French style shoe.
6. Broderie Anglaise Blouse
Style Notes: A real classic in a French denim outfit? The simplest of them all: a white blouse. With some lace or embroidered detailing, preferably.
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Nobodys Child
White Tie Front Broderie Anglaise Blouse
Delicate blouses like this one work all year round.
AGOLDE
’90s Crop Mid-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
We always rely on blue denim to do the trick.
6. Chic Tanks and Camis
Style Notes: Consider this a fashion girl’s cheat sheet as it’s a look that’ll work just as well in the daytime as in the evenings. Whether the silhouette is fitted or floaty, a pretty tank and cardi combo is guaranteed to make you feel and look incredible.
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Sezane
Gaspard Cardigan – Ecru – Super Kid Mohair – Sézane
Equal parts cosy and cute.
SKIMS
Fits Everybody Cami Thong Bodysuit – Onyx
An ever-flattering fit.
Tommy Hilfiger
Classic Straight Cut Jeans, Nos Mid Blue
Another classic staple.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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