The appeal of sturdy true-blue denim never dies, but if you find yourself putting on jeans every. single. morning, you might be feeling stuck in a style rut. It happens to the best of us. While there's absolutely nothing wrong with wearing this staple day in, day out, denim devotees run the risk of falling into a particular trap: You're used to the comfort, versatility and timelessness of your favourite jeans, so everything else pales in comparison. When faced with the choice of slipping on a silky skirt versus pulling up a pair of worn-in straight-legs, the urge to stay in your comfort zone is an understandable one.
But while denim works for many occasions, there are times when a slightly smarter trouser or an elevated skirt will make your T-shirt outfit feel more exciting.
To help you branch out into other bottom categories, we've scrolled through the Instagram grids of some of our most loved French influencers. While Parisians love showing off their bountiful denim collections, it turns out they're just as skilled at assembling non-jeans outfits. Scroll on to see the looks that demanded our attention.
1. Blue Shirt + Wool Vest + Tailored Skirt
Style Notes: Make like Adenorah and don this chic look by layering elements. It's a smart look that can be worn to work.
Shop the look:
A classic, no matter the time of year.
Chic and oh-so timeless.
Wool midi skirts means you can wear skirt well into the winter.
A classic it-shoe.
2. White Shirt + Slip Skirt
Style Notes: White shirts feel typically French and when teamed with a silk slip skirt the look becomes decidedly current.
Shop the look:
I adore this cut.
The perfect length to take from day to night.
A chic bag for both day and night.
You'll be grateful you picked these over heels.
3. Sleeveless Top + Cream Trousers + Silk Scarf
Style Notes: Franny's neutral-trouser look feels simultaneously familiar and fresh. The silk scarf adds that all-important French finesse, while the plisse top brings dimension to the outfit. Add a blazer to beat the winter chill.
Shop the look:
Interesting textures like this can totally transform a basic silhouette.
These will be an incredibly useful addition to your spring/summer wardrobe.
It's worth having a silky scarf on-hand to jazz up your looks.
A French staple to complete this French-inspired ensemble.
4. Neutral Knitted Co-Ord
Style Notes: On cold winter days, French women are embracing the co-ord trend. You'll have an instantly elevated look.
Shop the look:
I love how timeless cable knit is.
Knitted skirts are big news this summer.
Plenty of space for your on-the-go essentials.
5. Denim Shirt + Denim Maxi Skirt + Knee High Boots
Style Notes: French locals are leaning into the maxi denim skirt trend. Wear them exactly as you would jeans.
Shop the look:
Why not opt for a collarless style.
Andi isn't the only French influencer I've spotted wearing a denim maxi skirt.
M&S' boot offerings are so good this year.
Next Up: How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe With 2024's Biggest Trends
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
-
People in Paris, London and New York City Are Wearing Skirts in This Elegant Trending Colour Right NowGrey has never looked so good.
-
No Trainers Needed—This Flat Shoe Trend Makes Leggings Look So Much PrettierBranch out.
-
Well-Dressed Londoners Have Claimed This Parisian Knitwear Trend as Their Own This WinterIt's so French.
-
It’s Leggings-and-Flats Season—These Are the Combinations That Look the Chicest Right NowI've done the research.
-
Claudia Winkleman's Leggings on The Traitors Are the Exact Pair Our Editors Have Been Buying for YearsEveryone should know about these.
-
Move Over, Skinny Jeans, This "Dated" Trouser Trend Just Made an Unexpected Return for 2025It's got the A-list talking.
-
I’ve Done the Research—These Are the 5 Colours French Women Will Stand By in 2025C'est vrai.
-
I'm a Brit Living in Paris—10 Timeless Items I Know Stylish Women in France Will Rely On in 2025Your ultimate guide.
