Some things span timezones and continents and one of those things is the love for classic denim. Whether you’re American or French, it doesn’t matter. Jeans are forever a staple in our wardrobes as well as a staple in the closet of French women, and they give us so much inspiration on how to wear French girl jeans in new, chic ways! Keep reading for more about French girls’ favorite stores to buy denim, what styles they love to wear, and outfit ideas for styling chic jean outfits year-round.
How to Wear French Girl Jeans
First things first, if you want to wear your jeans like a French girl, it’s helpful to wear the jeans that French girls love to wear!
Jean brands that French girls wear
- Sézane: This brand was born in France and though they now have shops in the US, their quality items all have that Parisian touch! If you’re the type of person who feels lost when it comes to dressing like a French girl, a good place to start would be to shop the brands that a French girl created.
- Musier: This clothing brand was started by French influencer and businesswoman, Adenorah. She infuses her Parisian touch to all her modern style.
- Levi’s: Who knew that Parisian women would love an American brand so much? Vintage Levi 501s are the top favorite spanning across the board.
- Rouje: This is It Girl Jeanne Damas’ line, so you can bet that anything from here is going to be Parisian chic!
Though this list doesn’t have every brand French girls love, it’s a good start! Find yourself on a budget? No problem. Though French girls do have specific brands they love, ultimately it comes down to the style of jeans you wear – not necessarily the brand. Choosing classic styles at more budget-friendly places like H&M, Target, and Old Navy, can give you the look you want while also helping you to stay within your budget.
A French Girl’s Favorite Style of Jeans
The most popular jeans spotted in French street style include four common styles that French women love to wear. They include slim, straight-leg, wide-leg, or cropped flared. These are four of the most versatile styles of jeans. So, it makes sense that Parisian women would also love to choose these pairs as their go-to. French women focus on quality over quantity and want to make the most of their wardrobe pieces.
1. Slim Jeans
Slim jeans are a great choice if you’re going for a sleek look. Pair them with your oversized sweaters and knee-high boots in the fall for a cozy, yet balanced look. Or, styling them with ballet flats, a t-shirt, and trench coat in the spring. The possibilities are nearly endless with slim jeans.
2. Straight Leg Jeans
Straight-leg jeans may just be the most versatile style of jeans on our list. You can easily dress them up or down depending on the occasion, and incorporate them into your outfits all year long. Plus, they are easy to style with a wide variety of shoes. If you’re going for a casual look, you can wear them with sneakers, loafers, or ballet flats. When you’re looking to dress them up, try pairing them with pointed-toe heels, a slim ankle boot, or mules. In the summer, style them with your sandals and espadrilles for an easygoing warm-weather look.
3. Wide Leg Jeans
Wide-leg jeans have a more dramatic look. They take up more visual space, so you’ll want to pair them with pieces that either lean into the oversized look or balance out their proportions. The same goes for your shoes. This style of jeans pairs well with a sleek, pointed-toe knee-high boot that fits well underneath the wide leg of your jeans. Or, pair them with your ankle boots, slingback heels, or platform sandals in warmer weather.
4. Cropped Flared Jeans
Cropped flared jeans are a great choice if you want to show off your footwear. Style them with ankle boots, as long as your ankle isn’t left exposed between the top of your shoe and your pants (this will create a blocking effect). You can also pair them with your flat shoes with ease – try styling them with your loafers, ballet flats, or Mary Janes to really showcase your chic shoes.
Speaking of versatility, high-waisted or mid-rise pairs will be your best bet. Everyone is different when it comes to their favorite rise of jeans. Your favorite will depend on your body type and what you’re comfortable wearing. However, these two pairs will ensure you don’t have a gap between your top and the top of your jeans. This may be an issue if you go for a low-rise pair.
What to Avoid:
There are a few things to avoid when you’re shopping for denim if you want to do so the French way. Make sure to steer clear of pairs with rips, holes, or embellishments. French women keep it simple and classic for their denim, and these details can be trendy, or appear too casual if you’re going for the classically chic French style.
Avoid non-neutral colors. Keep your denim color palette limited to white, black, and shades of blue if you want to get the most wardrobe bang for your buck. Also, don’t go for an overly slouchy pair. A relaxed pair can work, but if they’re overly baggy they might look misshapen, or frumpy when paired with other classic wardrobe pieces.
French Girl Jean Outfit Ideas
And now, onto the outfit ideas! If you’re looking for some no-fail outfit ideas, here are the top ways French girls love to wear their jeans.
1. jeans + blouse
Whether it’s a statement blouse or a simple yet pretty top, this outfit combo is one you can always fall back on. Not much is needed for accessories, besides your classic handbag and maybe some gold jewelry.
2. jeans + button-down
It’s classic and sophisticated. Casual Friday, anyone? Dress this look up or down! If you’re headed to work you could pair this outfit with ankle boots, and if you’re going about your day you could pair it with sneakers or flats.
3. jeans + blazer
The look of an oversized blazer with jeans is a French girl go-to, so definitely tuck this outfit idea away for the days when you have no idea what to wear!
Spring French Denim Looks
Spring is the perfect time to reach for your bright washes of denim. Light-wash and white pairs will naturally complement your lighter spring looks! In springtime, a pair of slim jeans will go well with your ballet flats, Mary Janes, or loafers. When it comes to your ankle boots, try reaching for a pair of wide-leg or straight-leg denim. A crop style is also perfect for warmer weather and will look great with your flats or sandals.
You can transition your darker denim pairs to spring with a striped tee, trench coat, ballet flats, and a basket tote. Even though the shade of blue is darker, it’s a crop pair which makes them perfect for spring looks. Add a pair of pearl earrings and you have the perfect spring Parisian outfit formula for the weekend.
trench coat | flats | jeans | shirt | earrings | tote bag
Summer Denim Looks
In the summer, you can reach for many of the same styles that you did back in spring. If you live in a warm climate, it might be helpful to look for pairs with a wide leg, or a flexible, thinner denim material. Rigid, tight jeans may be uncomfortable in the mid-summer heat. And, of course, you can always go for a pair of denim shorts instead if you need an even cooler option!
button-down | jeans | shoes | bag | sunglasses
Fall Denim Looks
As fall approaches, you can lean into your mid-shade washes. They will complement the darker colors that you’ll probably start reaching for more as the weather cools down. Try incorporating your favorite jeans in a layered look, such as a white tee, blazer, jeans, and ankle boots for an effortlessly chic outfit for a casual Friday at the office.
These are all pieces you can pull from your capsule wardrobe. Still working on building that solid capsule foundation? We’ve got you covered with tips, tricks and shopping guides here.
t-shirt | blazer | jeans | heels | bag | watch
Winter Denim Looks
If you need inspiration for denim looks in winter, try reaching for a mid to darker wash. These washes will pair well with your neutral pieces in colder weather, and look more natural in the moodier season of the year. As for styles, it’s a great time to reach for your slim or skinny jeans to pair with your knee-high boots. Otherwise, try a pair of wide-leg denim with your ankle boots and heels.
turtleneck | jeans | boots | coat | bag | earrings
The Art of French Girl Denim
French girls have a way of making every style they wear look classic, elegant, and chic. With a few tips, you can get the same look by following their example. When it comes to denim, you can make jeans shopping a whole lot easier by following these tips for color, style, and details. Once you find a pair you love, you’ll see the difference that a great pair of jeans can make for your outfits!
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This is such a lovely and helpful post! I am always looking for ways to embody parisian style. Thank you!
I’m the same way, Megan! Glad you liked it 🙂
the french girl style is to die for… thanks for this inspiring informations
I agree – forever a favorite style of mine!