When it comes to jeans, some cuts instantly come to mind. Skinnies are one such style (even if they aren’t as prevalent right now as they once were). Boot-cut, loose and boyfriend are also up there as some of the most iconic jeans silhouettes. However, we consider another jeans style to be a classic, and that’s mom jeans. Paying homage to the ’80s, mom jeans are typically high-waisted with a looser fit around the thighs and a leg that tapers toward the ankle. They’re the sort of thing your mum would have worn with a tucked-in blouse, a black leather Western belt, white socks and loafers.
Nowadays, you’re far more likely to see celebrities stepping out in mom jeans paired with a long coat, plain white tee, and strappy sandals. The attraction? Their relaxed but sculpting shape makes them the perfect denim option for those whose aesthetic teeters sexy and effortless.
Like all jeans, just about anything you choose to wear them with will work; such is the root of their appeal. Still, there are certain pieces that work better with jeans—specifically mom jeans—than others. Most commonly, we find ourselves being asked which shoe styles work best with denim, so we’ve set about trying to answer that for you. From loafers and trainers to boots and heels, here are the five shoes to wear with mom jeans, as demonstrated by some of our fashionable friends.
Style Notes: While it might not be the pair of shoes you grab for a shopping day or long walk, there’s no denying that strappy sandals look incredible paired with looser-fitting mom jeans.
The silk finish adds an elegant touch to this look.
This delicate bangle is the perfect finishing touch.
This pair has made its way into many of our editors baskets.
Understated and elegant.
Style Notes: While all trainers tend to loan themselves well to jeans, we think Anouk’s retro trainers fit the streamlined silhouette of the mom jean look.
This could easily pass for designer.
Truly beautiful.
This classic pair comes in 5 shades.
We’ve spotted so many stylish people sporting Adidas trainers.
Style Notes: Proof that fashion trends always come full circle, Franny has taken her mom jeans back to their origins by wearing them with a pair of classic leather chain-detail loafers.
So many great outfits include a classic blazer.
The adjustable strap means you can wear this sleek bag in various ways.
Abercrombie & Fitch are some of the most comfortable jeans I’ve tried.
These could easily pass for designer.
Style Notes: If you like your mom jeans on the long side, might we suggest keeping your shoe choice fuss-free and pared-back? A no-frills pair of leather ankle boots is the ideal option for far-reaching hems.
With Nothing Underneath is known for its brilliant shirts.
The bag all our editors want.
Choose from three lengths to find your perfect fit.
You’ll rewear these for years to come.
Style Notes: If you prefer an ankle grazing pair of mom jeans, then a sleek pair of ballet flats is a good idea. The classic shoe has returned to style prominence for the instant polish it adds to any look, and the flat sole make these a clever option for those on the go.
We really rate Arket’s blazers.
Such a beautiful hue.
Levi’s 501s are a best seller for a reason.
This pair comes in a sumptuous suede.
Style Notes: When the sunnier days come around, minimal slip-on slider sandals will help elevate your mom-jean look.
Cosy up in this soft jumper now, or wear over shoulders when the sun arrives.
