The Anti-Jeans Outfits French Girls Will Wear on Repeat in 2024

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

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(Image credit: @annelauremais)

Style Notes: Make like Adenorah and don this chic look by layering elements. It's a smart look that can be worn to work.

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2. White Shirt + Slip Skirt

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(Image credit: @sylviemus)

Style Notes: White shirts feel typically French and when teamed with a silk slip skirt the look becomes decidedly current.

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3. Sleeveless Top + Cream Trousers + Silk Scarf

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(Image credit: @frannfyne)

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.

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4. Neutral Knitted Co-Ord

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(Image credit: @viklefevre)

Style Notes: On cold winter days, French women are embracing the co-ord trend. You'll have an instantly elevated look.

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5. Denim Shirt + Denim Maxi Skirt + Knee High Boots

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(Image credit: @andi_mun)

Style Notes: French locals are leaning into the maxi denim skirt trend. Wear them exactly as you would jeans.

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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.

Freelance Fashion Editor

Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.

A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.

In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.