Women in Paris Will Wear These Basics With Skirts and Jeans in 2024

Every time I travel to Paris, I find myself enthralled by the way that French women can make simple wardrobe basics feel so pulled-together. Last summer, I sat at a café in the Marais, watching women take their lunch break dressed in jeans, sneakers, and cute miniskirts, and I began to mentally tuck away ideas that I could bring home and make use of myself. Luckily, I realised that I could easily re-create them using items I already own. It would just take some new styling to pull it all together.
What I was particularly struck by is my French counterparts' ability to use simple pieces like a button-down or a blazer to give a sweatshirt or sneakers a dressier feel. It's an easy trick, but it has a big impact. Fully embracing 2024, I'm putting aside a fresh crop of ideas centred around the two pieces I find myself always going between: jeans and a simple skirt, like a suede mini or a silky black slip skirt. On Instagram, I've found some French outfits I can't wait to re-create in New York, bringing a little bit of Parisian flair over the pond. All of these outfits manage to take simple wardrobe basics and, through thoughtful styling, make them feel more elegant than they might otherwise. Here's my breakdown of the best basics to mix and match to re-create that Parisian sensibility.
1. Denim on Denim
Style Notes: Give denim on denim a fresh twist by treating it like a formal suit. Layer a button-down (and perhaps a tie!) underneath a jean jacket and style with flared jeans and chunky boots.
Shop the Look:
2. Mixed Textures
Style Notes: Don't be afraid to mix and match textures. A suede skirt and knit sweater balance out a sleek pair of patent-leather shoes.
Shop the Look:
3. Simple Shades
Style Notes: Monochromatic black and white is a classic combination that manages to always look good together. Mix a simple, sleek black skirt with a light button-down. If you want to add a little bit of a surprise detail, throw in a silver accessory like flats or a bag.
Shop the Look:
4. Casually Chic
Style Notes: When it comes to casual dressing, give sneakers and a sweatshirt the French twist. A blazer helps to add polish to a casual look, and if you're feeling particularly Parisian, tuck a baguette into your tote for later.
Shop the Look:
5. Structured Combo
Style Notes: Layering is an easy way to make the hero pieces of your wardrobe feel fresh again. A vest, belted and worn over a stiff button-down, creates a fresh look to wear with your favourite black maxi skirt.
Shop the Look:
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

-
Hold the Miniskirts—This Elegant Trend Is Set to Replace Them This Summer
Easy elegance.
-
Is It Just Me, or Is Every Cool Girl Suddenly Pairing Ballet Flats With This Anti-Denim Pant Trend?
You probably already own it.
-
Sure, Black Dresses Are Timeless, But Everyone With Great Taste Is Wearing Chic Styles in These Pretty Colours This Summer
It's time to brighten up your wardrobe.
-
I Wasn't Sold on Capri Pants, But This Shoe Trend Makes Them Look So Chic
Now I'm convinced.
-
Forget Jeans, I'm All About a Slinky Satin-Skirt Outfit in the Summer Months
They're so versatile.
-
5 Outfits That Prove Skirts And Ballet Flats Are My Perfect Spring Pairing
Elegance with ease.
-
10 Spring Outfit Ideas That Will Make Anyone Look Like a Fashion Person
Bring on the compliments.
-
European Women Have Convinced Me That This Is Spring 2025's Most Elegant Jacket Trend
And it goes perfectly with jeans.