French Women Master Transitional Dressing—5 Classic Jackets to Wear With Jeans

I have it on good authority that Parisian women hugely favour dressing for autumn over any other season, and really, this should come as no surprise. After spending some time studying the essence of French style, I’ve noticed something interesting: the pieces most synonymous with that effortlessly chic aesthetic—think trench coats and straight-leg denim—really come into their own in mild, comfortable weather. Of course they are packed away during hot summers and holidays to the south of France, but come late August, I can’t help but notice how quickly French women reintroduce these staples into their wardrobes, as if they’ve been counting down the days to wear them again.

Now, as we veer towards autumn and begin considering transitional dressing, there’s one foolproof transitional outfit formula you’re almost guaranteed to see French women wearing—a chic jacket with jeans.

Owing to its versatility and ease, jean and jacket combinations are some of the most worn across the French capital. While it may not seem like the most exhilarating pairing, recent jacket trends have breathed a new lease of life into pre-existing denim in people’s arsenal. To demonstrate just how versatile this combination is, I’ve pulled five jacket and jean autumn outfits ranging from suede blazers and leather jackets to cropped trench coats.

Style Notes: You can’t mention French-style outerwear without referencing the trench coat. The shrunken iterations are almost as popular as the elongated styles and we’ve witnessed French brands Sézane and Bash expand their cropped offerings through the years.