We all know how versatile a pair of jeans can be. After all, what other garment can take you from date night to the weekend with the same stylish flair and universal appeal? However, their ease is often dependent on another item: footwear.
Shoes have the power to instantly change the mood of your jeans. For example, for a formal occasion, a pair of bejewelled heels will elevate your classic blues to glamorous new heights. Similarly, ballet flats will add polish to ripped or frayed-hem jeans—simply add a tailored blazer and a button-down, and you’ve got yourself a chic ensemble.
So which shoes would I recommend wearing with jeans? I’m glad you asked. I’ve whittled down the shoes to wear with jeans that I truly believe work for just about every occasion you can think of. Keep scrolling to see eight jean-and-shoe combinations validated by the style elite, and then shop the pieces you need to re-create their impressive looks.
Style Notes: If you’ve already invested in a pair of thin-strap sandals, rest assured that they look excellent with jeans. Their simple silhouette makes for a premium footwear choice and will help make even bleached-blue or faded-black denim look luxe.
An animal-print top will make any pair of jeans feel more glamorous.
Fashion’s favourite sunglasses.
These black jeans have just the right amount of fade to them so as not to look brand new.
We’re here for the chunky, low heel you’ll be able to wear all day long.
Style Notes: Ballet flats are firmly back on our fashion radar. Typically low cut on the foot, they work with just about any jean length, though we think they look really chic when worn with white ankle-grazing jeans.
I love this summery take on the leather jacket.
Such a cool print.
Balloon-leg jean shapes are trending and so comfortable.
Keep things classic with a black ballet flat.
Style Notes: Where there are jeans, trainers can’t be too far off. While all sneaker styles will do the off-duty trick, take the minimalist approach with a pair of sleek tennis shoes.
I’ve had a leather blazer on my wish list for the longest time, and I love this minimalistic option.
An update on basic jersey.
Wide-leg pairs are so comfy.
Nike Air Force 1s are like gold dust at the moment.
Style Notes: When it comes to relaxed-fit jeans, take inspiration from cool Cali girls and wear them with a pair of flip-flops. A cardigan and bra top will finish the look.
British weather is unpredictable so a cardigan is key.
I like the neckline on this bra top.
So chic.
These have been best sellers at M&S for the past couple of years, and now they’re back for 2022.
Style Notes: Espadrilles look just as good with jeans as they do with printed midi skirts. Straight-leg styles work particularly well, as they balance out the chunky wedge heels.
The perfect holiday shirt.
A designer basket bag that’s worth saving for.
Zara’s denim edit has never been stronger than it is now.
If you’re going to do espadrilles, make them Castañer.
Style Notes: Few combinations feel more 2022 than straight-leg jeans and classic leather loafers. Just add a trench coat and a sleek shoulder bag to complete the casual but polished aesthetic.
A linen trench will be lighter for the warmer months.
The ideal base layer for spring outfits.
I have a feeling we’ll be seeing a lot of this new Loewe bag in the coming months.
Another high-street jean that gets rave reviews.
Penny loafers always look sophisticated.
Style Notes: Want that sandal look without having to book in for that pedicure? Then it’s closed-toe mules to the rescue. Heeled pairs will help balance out wide-leg jeans, but they look just as sleek with straight-leg denim, too.
I love the tie detail on this blouse.
Cheat your way to looking like a rich girl.
Our editors love this jean cut from & Other Stories.
These mules come in so many colours if white isn’t your thing.
Style Notes: Another shoe that’s taking over in 2022, slingbacks—particularly those with block heels—will elevate any jean ensemble. As will an oversized blazer.
A staple you’ll come to rely upon.
A welcome change from fail-safe white.
This blue shade feels authentically vintage.
It shoe alert!
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
