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 NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.