Taking inspiration from the French fashion set, Meghan Markle stepped out in a quintessentially Parisian outfit this week, styling a pair of grey skinny jeans with tonal ballet flats for an evening out. Referencing an outfit combination much loved in the early 00s, Markle put a decidedly modern spin on her outfit with her chosen colour palette. Opting to style a head-to-toe look in the enduring grey colour trend, she leant into the shade for her casual night-out look.
Whilst the popularity of skinny jeans peaked in the 00s and 10s, fashion people are embracing them again in 2024. Although I’m personally still coming around to the idea of wearing them again, the French have never let this classic jeans style fall out of favour. Styling them with roomy knits, smart blazers and most importantly, ballet flats, the French style set has long made the case for these divisive jeans.
Capable of adding a streamlined finish to an outfit in ways other denim styles simply can’t, skinny jeans are working their way back into the wardrobes of those in the know. For a spring styling twist, the French-loved ballet-flat pairing complements the polished nature of skinny jeans, culminating in a casual outfit that you could wear to a myriad of occasions.
Read on to shop Meghan Markle’s simple look along with our favourite skinny jeans and ballet flats below.
SHOP MEGHAN MARKLE’S FRENCH-STYLE JEANS OUTFIT:
Arket
Relaxed Cashmere Jumper in Grey
This wool knit is perfect for early-spring styling.
Paige
Hoxton Skinny High-Rise Stretch-Denim Jeans
French Sole
Amelie in Light Grey Leather
Add a delicate touch to a denim outfit or slip on with a flowy skirt.
Goyard
Artois PM Bag in Grey
Price on request.
This also comes in 10 other colours.
SHOP OUR OTHER FAVOURITE SKINNY JEANS AND BALLET FLATS:
Mango
Skinny Push-Up Jeans
These are available in sizes 4 to 24.
Black ballet flats are versatile enough to wear with just about anything.
Agolde
Nico High-Rise Skinny Jeans
These will look so chic with Mary Janes and a slouchy knit.
Mango
Bow Leather Ballerina
Trust us: ballet flats are going to be everywhere this spring.
Reformation
Cynthia Stretch High Rise Straight Jeans
As you can see, these are the perfect length to show off block-heel mules.
Le Monde Beryl
Luna Leather-Trimmed Mesh Ballet Flats
Paige
Gemma High-Rise Slim-Leg Jeans
Paige denim is a fashion-person favourite.
COS
Pleated Leather Mary-Jane Ballet Flats
The toe pleats are such a fresh take on basic flats.
Mango
Skinny Cropped Jeans
White jeans are a staple when the sun comes out.
Aeyde
Kirsten Leather Ballet Flats
These also come in beige and black.
Mother Denim
The Looker Skimp
Skinny jeans are an easy way to add some casual structure to a day-to-day outfit.
Reformation
Mikayla Ballet Flat
A square toe is another interesting take on the ballet flat.