Denim on Denim

French women have been wearing double denim since the ’60s. And while the original trend is attributed to the Canadian tuxedo of Bing Crosby in 1951, leave it to the French to turn an American trend into a classic of their own. Starting with the trendsetters of their time, Françoise Hardy, Jane Birkin, and Brigitte Bardot, denim sprung onto the scene of cinema and street style with a rebellious and liberated attitude to match.

In the 1980s, Vanessa Paradis breathed new life into double denim’s evolution. Instead of following the fitted looks of previous generations, Paradis opted for the oversized fits of the time. Her laid-back yet stylish take cemented the denim-on-denim look as a French fashion staple, which continues to reign supreme today.
While it’s clear that French women have been perfecting the trend for generations, achieving the denim-on-denim look on your own can feel like a gamble. One denim patch too many, and what was once chic quickly becomes faux pas. So, how do today’s French women style a trend that easily lends itself to being dated? Timelessness isn’t as elusive as it seems when you follow these styling rules.

The key to nailing the double denim look is to mix and match different (but similar) washes and textures. Don’t be afraid to explore different combinations to see what works. For an easy-to-wear style, try pairing a true-blue denim jean with a chambray shirt or jean jacket of a lighter hue. You can also play with different textures to bring dimension to your look.

A little distressing or raw hem jean can add a touch of Parisian edge while complementing a more refined, tailored top .Some of the most classic looks are achieved by pairing two pieces of a similar wash. These monochromatic combinations elevate the look with intent, by suggesting, “I’m trying… but not too hard.”
You can also replicate a jumpsuit style by pairing two pieces of the same shade. Not only does it create a seamless look, but it also adds an unexpected twist to the traditional jumpsuit.

Experiment with different proportions to style creative looks that flatter your body. For example, if you want to highlight your waist, pair a high-waist, wide-leg jean with a cropped, tailored denim jacket. This combination is visually interesting and draws attention to the midline.

Break up a sea of blue with the playful addition of a pop of color. A bold red lip creates an authentic French touch that complements your ensemble. Or, if you’re looking to express even more of your personal style, a colorful silk scarf can be the perfect finishing touch without becoming too loud.
When it comes to denim-on-denim, and French fashion in general, less is more. Instead of trying to make a bold statement with flashy accessories or heavy makeup, the French approach is to let the denim speak for itself. This means keeping your accessories simple and opting for natural makeup that lets your OOTD shine.

Don’t stress over perfecting every detail; a little bit of fraying or a crease here and there can add character to your unique look. In fact, it’s the little imperfections that make the outfit uniquely yours. So relax, embrace the imperfections, and wear your double denim with confidence.