The Denim Trend Both French and American Girls Love
It's not every day that you'll find French and American girls wearing the same items. The two styles are pretty distinct—as we all know, French-girl style is synonymous with effortless, flirty staples, while American style is often more driven by seasons and trends (so many trends). More often than not, we Americans are the ones taking style inspiration from our European counterparts. So we were delightfully surprised to discover that both sides of the Atlantic are actually fans of the same denim trend.
We have the French to thank for popularizing high-waisted jeans with a wide-leg fit and a cropped hem. Sometimes called "sailor" pants, or more simply: cropped flares, this denim trend quickly became an international favorite, but what we love most is how the two countries wear the jeans with their own distinct spin.
Everyone likes to talk about how the two countries have very different approaches to dressing, and yet here's proof that we actually sip from the same proverbial well of inspiration. Go on to see the denim outfits from each country and shop our picks.
How French girls are styling the jeans
Strappy sandals and a satin top make these jeans a quintessential date-night favorite.
French girls can typically be found styling their jeans with romantic-style tops.
Espadrilles are another French-girl favorite.
Romantic blouses and strappy sandals are the styling of choice in France.
How American girls are wearing them
Meanwhile, on this side of the Atlantic, neutral accessories let the jeans really shine.
NYC girls specifically are fans of wearing block-heeled mules with their cropped wide-leg jeans.
You'll also find American girls taking a more minimalistic approach with this denim trend. Case in point: this whole outfit.
Shop more of our favorite picks
Next up, find out which micro-trend both countries are fans of this summer.
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.
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