I Did a Lot of Research—Turns Out French People Already Own These Summer Denim Staples

In the world of fashion, there are very few items that have the timeless appeal and versatility of denim. It’s the most ubiquitous wardrobe category around the globe. However, when it comes to truly unique and effortlessly stylish denim pieces, French people have always seemed to have the upper hand. I did extensive research—*ahem* Instagram scrolling—and it's clear that the French have a distinct approach to denim, finding ways to wear it that I don’t see as often in the U.S.

My investigation into French denim revealed an impressive array of unique staples that are as assorted as they are stylish. From babydoll dresses that exude sophistication to vintage-inspired jeans with a modern twist, French denim pieces truly embody a sense of individuality. This deep dive into the world of French fashion has shed light on how the French maintain their reputation for effortless chic, proving that their approach to denim is innovative, and I’m taking notes. Below, find the six denim staples I’m borrowing from the French.

1. Babydoll Dresses

Denim dresses come in many shapes and sizes. Among New Yorkers, I’ve seen fitted styles more often, but I loved stumbling across babydoll dresses on French women in my research.

Closed

Short Denim Dress

$415$290

Reformation

Stella Denim Mini Dress

$178

Ser.O.Ya

Georgia Mini Dress

$348

Lee Mathews

Denim Mini Dress

$410$287

2. As Baggy as Can Be

If you thought your jeans were baggy, there’s a French woman out there who can certainly find a way to one-up you. You’d be surprised how baggy jeans can be, and I am here for the French way of styling this trend.

rag & bone

Miramar Wide Leg Jeans

$188

H&M

Baggy Regular Jeans

$29

Free People

Tinsley High Waist Baggy Jeans

$98

AGOLDE

Low Slung Baggy Organic Cotton Jeans

$228

3. Unexpected Denim-Skirt Hemlines

If a skirt length seems awkward, just give it a try. I wasn’t convinced of this at first, but the more I see it, the more interesting I think it makes any outfit feel—this is one you can’t miss if you like French style.

H&M

Denim Cargo Skirt

$29

Citizens of Humanity

Carolina Destructed Knee-Length Skirt

$298

JAG

Belted Denim Skirt

$58$48

Topshop

Vented Denim Skirt

$65$32

4. '70s Flare

Straight-leg jeans are forever classic, but for people who want to make their personal style feel a bit more elevated, there’s something about a ’70s flare right now that really does it for me.

7 for All Mankind

Pleated Trousers

$248

H&M

Flared Low Jeans

$19$17

BDG Urban Outfitters

Flare Leg Jeans

$69$34

5. Bermuda Shorts

Bermuda shorts are everywhere this summer, and again, I was hesitant at first. When I was growing up, I remember this being cool and then looking back and not understanding later in life. Right now, though, they couldn’t feel more classic. The modest take on shorts is totally Audrey Hepburn approved.

H&M

Denim Bermuda Shorts

$29

AGOLDE

Ellis Trouser Shorts

$208

H&M

Bermuda Regular Denim Shorts

$50

freepeople

6. Canadian Tuxedo

One of my favorite outfits for when I have no clue what to wear will always be a Canadian tuxedo. Denim on denim has been classic for French women for decades, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

Ulla Johnson

The Alessa Jacket

$550

Favorite Daughter

The Ex-Boyfriend Denim Shirt

$188

MMUSOMAXWELL

Denim Shirt

$545

H&M

Feather Soft Denim Shirt

$34