As far as everyday 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 at our favourite French fashion influencers, who it seems, are always able to pull of that effortlessly chic look we all want more of.
The 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 a) elevated and b) comfortable, which the women of France seem to pull off year-round.
Given that a new year brings the opportunity for us to get a bit more experimental with our style, the anti-jeans outfits I'll be taking inspo from go beyond switching to a pair of 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 favourite 8 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 trench-style coat on top.
Shop the Look:
Whistles
Riley Trench Coat
It would be hard not to feel smart in this.
ARCH4
+ Net Sustain the Ivy Cashmere Sweater
Emilia Wickstead knits are always a treat.
John Lewis
Leather Pencil Skirt
I'm loving the chocolatey tones.
M&S Collection
3pk 60 Denier Body Sensor™ Tights
M&S are my go-to for stocking up on tights.
ZARA
Kitten Heel Slingback Shoes
With or without tights, these would look so chic.
2. RELAXED FIT TROUSERS + TRENCH COAT
Style Notes: If you want your jeans alternatives to be as comfortable as possible, a loose-fitting pair of trousers is the way to go. I love how Franny has paired hers with a matching black top and contrasting khaki trench.
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Comfy enough to lounge around the house in, stylish enough to go shopping in.
COS
Oversized Boiled Merino Wool Jumper
Accessorise with bold jewellery if you want to elevate this piece.
hush
Stella Long Trench Jacket
While I'm usually a fan of a neutral trench coat, there's something about khaki that feels so classic.
MAISON MARGIELA
Replica Suede Sneakers
The tan leather soles are a beauty.
3. LEATHER JACKET + TAILORED SHORTS + TIGHTS
Style Notes: I'm bookmarking this look for date night outfit inspo. The sheer tights and tailored shorts combination is effortlessly sexy, 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 jeans, midi-length dresses, tailored shorts – you name it.
Reformation
Nell Knit Top
For all your winter layering needs.
A simple pair of tailored shorts like these open up a world of outfit possibilities.
M&S Collection
Leather Lizard Effect Slim Jeans Belt
A timeless accessory you'd wear on repeat.
Arket
Sheer Tights 20 Denier
Stock up now for all your winter fashion needs.
THE ROW
Sofia 10 Leather Tote
Bobbies
Reem - Lacquered Black
Bobbies is a gorgeous French fashion brand.
4. CHOCOLATE BROWN TROUSERS + SCARF JACKET + TONAL HANDBAG
Style Notes: Tailored trousers are a go-to alternative for jeans, but chocolate brown takes them to a whole new level. Keep everything else in the same tone and the outfit instantly looks more expensive.
Shop the Look:
MARCÉLA LONDON
Tol Wool Jacket With Scarf Chocolate Brown
It doesn't get more cosy chic than this.
ZARA
Double Pleat Trousers
For under £30, these are a steal.
The Row
Margaux Shoulder 12 Bag in Leather
The Row Margaux is an icon.
John Lewis
Penny Patent Leather Moccasins
To smarten up those casual winter looks.
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 the perfect polished look.
Shop the Look:
ALIGNE
Mysti Fluted Midaxi Knitted Skirt
I love the simplicity of this.
Nobodys Child
Navy Roll Neck Knitted Jumper
A summer staple, but also ideal for layering under knits in winter.
VALENTINO GARAVANI
Vlogo Locker Leather Loafer
Wear with white socks to make a statement.
Ray-Ban
Polarised Square Sunglasses
Ray-Bans will always be timeless to me.
6. CROPPED TROUSERS + SHIRT + SLINGBACKS
Style Notes: Want to feel smart with minimal effort? Try a pair of cropped pinstriped trousers. Style with a white blouse and slingback heels to take the look in a more glamorous direction.
Shop the Look:
ME+EM
Italian 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, Cream
The styling possibilities are endless.
ROGER VIVIER
Two-Tone Patent-Leather Slingback Pumps
Prada
Prada Aimée Large Leather Shoulder Bag
7. SATIN SKIRT + ROLL NECK JUMPER
Style Notes: This wouldn't be a non-jeans round up without a satin skirt in the mix. I love how Aïda has kept the look simple with a neutral roll neck and classic white heels.
Shop the Look:
Ghost
Luna Satin Slip Skirt
A slinky satin skirt is a wardrobe staple.
MANGO
Turtleneck Knit Sweater
This also comes in a richer brown.
M&S Collection
Stiletto Heel Pointed Court Shoes
Polène
Mokki - Textured Ebony
I'm officially lusting after this.
8. MAXI DRESS + LEATHER TRENCH + BOOTS
Style Notes: Maxi dresses are no longer the reserve of summer. A full-length knit is a go-to for me in the colder months, and I'm loving how it looks with a leather trench and boots.
Shop the Look:
NOUR HAMMOUR
Henri Belted Double-Breasted Leather Trench Coat
A belted leather trench coat in brown? Yes please.
hush
Talen Long Sleeved Knitted Maxi Dress
The maxiest of maxi lengths.
& Other Stories
Slim-Fit Turtleneck Top
Did I mention I'm a fan of chocolate brown?
Gabor
Jazzy Chunky Ankle Boots, Black
The boots to wear with pretty much anything.
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