9 Ways French Girls Are Wearing Classic Denim Shorts This Summer

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592250443466-main

(Image credit: @hannalhoumeau)

French women and classic style go hand in hand, and if you're a regular WWW reader, you'll know just how often we turning to our French fashion friends for inspiration. Well, surprise surprise—we're back once again to tap into their style, this time focusing on how to wear one of the most enduring items in our summer wardrobes: jean shorts.

Since we've officially reached the point in the summer where denim shorts have become a fixture in our day-to-day outfits, it's about time we shed some light on ways to make them feel fresh. I don't know about you, but I've been wearing my beloved cutoffs for more summers than I can count and my styling ideas have gotten a tad, well, tired. While a basic tank and sandals will never fail, I've enlisted some of the most stylish French women I know to shed some light on the new and improved way to wear them—and their ideas don't disappoint. Whether they're throwing on a checked blazer or pairing shorts with a cute cropped cardigan, the following nine jean shorts outfits are sure to inspire you (because they definitely have for me).

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592246468934-image

Cropped Cardigan + Retro Sunglasses
(Image credit: @annelauremais)

Your first thought might not be to wear a cardigan with cutoff shorts, but it should be. Try a knit with short sleeves and a cropped hem that's especially suited to summer and accessorize with retro sunglasses like your favorite French girl.

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592250432463-image

Graphic Tee + Oversize Blazer + Sneakers
(Image credit: @hannalhoumeau)

This proves my theory that an oversize blazer will make anything you wear it with that much more polished. Case in point: throwing it over an otherwise casual look like this one.

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592250434872-image

Bucket Hat + Tank + Crafty Jewelry
(Image credit: @tamaramory)

Lean into the vacation vibes (no matter your actual proximity to a beach) with fun-loving accessories like a bucket hat, crafty necklace, and straw bag.

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592246465291-image

Puff-Sleeve Top + Hoops
(Image credit: @lenafarl)

A pretty puff-sleeved top and classic jewelry instantly add style to even the most basic of jean shorts. Easy as that.

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592246471735-image

Woven Bag + White Tee + Flats
(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

There's something unexpected about wearing ballet flats with denim shorts, but this simple yet brilliant look proves it can be done.

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592246470041-image

Breezy Blouse + White Shorts
(Image credit: @bonjourclem)

When it's too hot to handle anything else, go for a billowy top and crisp white shorts and you have yourself an easy look. Pair with tan sandals and you're good to go.

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592246463864-image

Basic Sweater + Structured Bag + Flats
(Image credit: @leiasfez)

If casual comfort is your goal, save this easy 'fit for future reference. A structured bag and chic flats are really all you need to ensure a winning look.

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592246473177-image

Sleeveless Blazer + Chunky Jewelry + Mules
(Image credit: @erinoffduty)

A sleeveless blazer feels especially fresh for summer when paired with jean shorts and a basic top.

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592257155194-main

Belted Blazer + Low Heels
(Image credit: @lefevrediary)

Whoever said jean shorts can't be chic, I give you this brilliant look that ties everything together with coordinating blazer and pumps.

french-denim-shorts-outfits-287771-1592246467234-image

Leather Shirt + Statement Heels
(Image credit: @louloudesaison)

So you want to make your shorts look trendy, you say? Try out a leather shirt jacket and eye-catching printed heels for a very 2020 feel.

Next up, the skirt trend that's suddenly everywhere.

Senior Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.