As far as everyday wardrobe staples go, it doesn’t get much more classic than a pair of jeans.
But now that we’re in 2025, I’m keen to look at how I can refresh my wardrobe, and given that I wear jeans 85% of the time, non-denim alternatives feel like the best place to start. And where better to look for inspo than our favourite French fashion influencers, who, it seems, are always able to pull off that effortlessly chic look we all want to emulate?
French style strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort, which if we’re talking about moving away from jeans, feels like the ultimate goal. If I’m not wearing jeans, I want an outfit that feels both elevated and comfortable, which the women of France are year-round pros at.
Given that a new year brings the opportunity for us to get a bit more experimental with our style, the anti-jeans outfits I’m looking at go beyond switching to tailored trousers (though of course, I’ll always have a pair of these on rotation). But in the spirit of embracing something new, I’ve also included skirts, shorts and maxi dresses in this round-up. French fashion is wonderfully versatile, after all.
So, if you’re looking to move away from jeans this year, keep scrolling to see my eight favourite alternatives, as styled by French women.
Anti-Jeans Outfits French Women Are Wearing in 2025
1. LEATHER SKIRT + JUMPER + LONGLINE COAT
Style Notes: A leather skirt with tights always looks trés chic, in my opinion. Pair with a casual knit in the same colour (chocolate brown is always a winner), then layer a long coat over the top.
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2. RELAXED-FIT TROUSERS + TRENCH COAT
Style Notes: If you want your jeans alternatives to be as comfortable as possible, a pair of loose-fitting trousers is the way to go. I love how Franny has paired hers with a matching black top and contrasting khaki trench (pictured above).
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H&M
Rib-Knit Trousers in Black
Comfy enough to lounge around the house in, stylish enough to go out in.
COS
Oversized Boiled Merino Wool Jumper in Black
Elevate this basic driver with bold jewellery.
hush
Stella Long Trench Jacket
Whilst I’m usually a fan of a neutral trench coat, there’s something about khaki that feels so classic.
3. LEATHER JACKET + TAILORED SHORTS + TIGHTS
Style Notes: I’m bookmarking this look for date-night outfit inspo. Sheer tights and tailored shorts are an effortlessly sexy combination, as is the black turtleneck and leather jacket.
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& Other Stories
Short Patent Jacket
The cropped fit makes this ideal for pairing with high-waisted trousers, midi dresses, tailored shorts… you name it.
H&M
Tailored Shorts in Black
A simple pair of tailored shorts like these will open up a world of outfit possibilities.
M&S Collection
Leather Lizard Effect Slim Jeans Belt in Burgundy
A timeless accessory you’ll wear on repeat.
4. CHOCOLATE-BROWN TROUSERS + SCARF JACKET + TONAL HANDBAG
Style Notes: Tailored trousers are a go-to alternative for jeans, but a chocolate-brown shade takes them to a whole new level. Keep everything else in the same tone and the outfit instantly looks more expensive.
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5. KNITTED SKIRT + JUMPER + LOAFERS
Style Notes: A knitted set is perfect if you want to look put-together but still feel comfy. Pair with sunglasses and loafers for a polished jeans-free outfit.
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H&M
Oxford Shirt in Blue/Striped
A summer staple, but also ideal for layering under knits in winter.
6. CROPPED TROUSERS + BLOUSE + SLINGBACKS
Style Notes: Want to feel elevated with minimal effort? Try a pair of cropped pinstripe trousers. Style with a white button-down shirt and slingback heels to take the look in a more glamorous direction.
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ME+EM
Textured Pinstripe Slim Crop Trouser
Cropped to a length that highlights the narrowest point of your ankle.
With Nothing Underneath
The Boyfriend: Silk Crepe De Chine in Cream
The styling possibilities are endless.
7. SATIN SKIRT + ROLL-NECK JUMPER
Style Notes: This wouldn’t be an anti-jeans round-up without a satin skirt in the mix. I love how Aïda Badji (pictured above) has kept her outfit simple with a neutral roll neck and classic white heels.
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8. MAXI DRESS + LEATHER TRENCH + BOOTS
Style Notes: Maxi dresses are no longer the reserve of summer. A full-length knitted dress is one of my go-tos in the colder months, and I love how it looks with a leather trench and boots.