We talk a lot here at Who What Wear about the classic aesthetic of French women, which is undoubtedly part of what makes their style so appealing to people around the world. This penchant for timeless style also applies to their denim choices. That said, while they wear the classics, they also make room for more trend-forward styles. And as you've probably noticed, French women love wearing jeans both day and night year-round, so there's plenty of room for denim diversity.
I've been a Who What Wear editor for 10 years, which translates to a lot of time spent looking at French outfits on Instagram. Because of this, I'm pretty confident in saying that I've pinpointed the exact denim styles French women own—many of which they've been wearing for years. Scroll on to see examples of the jeans and shop versions of the styles for your own denim collection.
Polished Dark Denim
It's not surprising that French women are all about these tailored jeans. They make any outfit they're paired with look smart, and they even look appropriate for the office or evening activities.
Shop the style:
Wide-Leg
Wide-leg jeans are a go-to for the French when they want something a bit more casual and comfortable—but still chic.
Shop the style:
Classic Straight-Leg
This one needs no explanation, but if I had to name one denim style that literally everyone in Paris owns, it would be classic straight-leg jeans. They go with everything, and that matters.
Shop the style:
100% Cotton Flare
Flared jeans—especially of 100% cotton construction—lend a vintage quality to outfits that French women love.
Shop the style:
Washed Black
Black jeans are a key element in a denim wardrobe, and the specific type that the French seem to favor is of the washed black variety.
Shop the style:
Dark-Wash Skinny
Say what you want about skinny jeans, but they're classic and nothing looks better with knee boots. You're likely to still find a pair or two in every French woman's closet—especially in dark denim.
Shop the style:
-
My Mom Only Shops Affordable Fashion—I Sent Her These 27 Chic, Rich-Looking Nordstrom FindsEverything is under $150.
-
Sarah Snook's New Bag Is So Shiv Roy If She Moved to L.A. and Started a SubstackI'm having Succession withdrawals.
-
This Chic Outfit Is Perfect for Paris, But I'm Going to Wear It In the Midwest and NYCThis simple outfit will make you look chic anywhere.
-
The Ashley Olsen Way to Make Simple Black Coats Look Chic, Not BoringIt's so easy, yet so impactful.
-
I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—29 Pieces I'm Eyeing Ahead of Black Friday That Will Get You Envious Stares and ComplimentsThese are guaranteed to elevate your wardrobe.
-
If Chic Sweater-and-Jeans Outfits Are the Goal, Don't Miss These Standout Picks From Zara, Madewell, J.Crew, and NordstromHere's to a stylish fall and winter.
-
6 Anti-Trend Shoes Experienced Shoppers Are Wearing With JeansYou can't go wrong with the classics.
-
Want to Wear Dark-Wash Jeans the 2025 Way? Style Them Exclusively With This Rich Color TrendThe chicest shade pairing for fall.
