Though I was born and raised in the States, I have always had a fascination with European style, and for good reason. Europe is saturated with tastemakers who have an excellent fashion sense, even when it comes to the most basic or classic of outfits, including these European blouse-and-jean outfits for summer. Whilst a blouse and jeans are a relatively simple combination that anyone can put together, it’s the specific styles, cuts, colours and silhouettes that European women seem to gravitate toward that make this look so much more than a classic, but a very impeccably styled version.
We all know the power of jeans and a nice top. Other than weddings or black-tie affairs, this duo can mould into an outfit that works for nearly any occasion. Once you perfect this pairing throughout the summer, it can also quickly become an easy year-round uniform you can edit and adjust based on the weather and where you’re headed.
If you’re still focusing on finding your right match, you’re in the right place for inspiration. From Paris to Copenhagen to London, I’ve noticed there are a handful of ways European women specifically are styling a range of blouses and jeans. Studying how exactly they do this is a helpful lesson in elevating an everyday outfit with ease. Flashy colours aren’t necessary, nor are overtly trendy styles. Whilst on-trend pieces are often used, European fashion insiders have a knack for creating outfits that will feel relevant this summer and into the next. They might pair a peasant blouse with a reliable pair of indigo jeans or test out a lace-trim blouse with white wide-leg denim. No matter how different each look is, it works. Here are the formulas they use and the five blouse and jean pairings you can learn from them.
1. Lace Blouse + Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: With lace and broderie anglaise blouses gaining serious traction as a summer trend, it’s no surprise that many European women match these delicate tops with a reliable pair of blue jeans. Despite the trend status, it’s a timeless pairing that will look great whether you wear it this summer or next. For shoes, you have no shortage of options. Sandals and heels always look exceptional during warm weather, but as we wind our way into autumn, loafers, trainers and boots all work wonderfully, too.
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