We all know how versatile a pair of jeans can be. After all, what other garment can take you from date night to 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 shoes-and-jeans 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 invest in a pair of thin-strap sandals, rest assured, they look excellent worn with jeans. Their simple silhouette makes for a premium footwear choice and will help to make even bleached blue or faded black denim look luxe.
An animal print top will make any pair of jeans feel more glamorous.
These black jeans have just the right amount of fade to them so as not to look brand new.
I’m here for the chunky heel as it’ll make these thin-strap sandals more supportive to walk in.
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 springtime take on the leather jacket.
Such a cool print.
Barrel-leg jean shapes are trending and are so comfortable to wear.
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.
These come in a broad array of sizes.
Nike Air Force 1s are like gold dust at the moment.
Style Notes: Where relaxed-fit jeans are concerned, take inspiration from cool Cali girls and wear them with a pair of flip-flops. A cardigan and bra top will finish the look.
The ideal springtime throw-on.
I like the neckline on this bra top.
So chic.
These have been best-sellers for 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.
A designer basket bag that is attainable to save for.
Zara’s denim edit has never been stronger than it is now.
If you’re going to do espadrilles, make them Castañer.
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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.
The perfect trench coat does exist.
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 to balance out wider jean lengths, though 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 failsafe white.
This blue shade feels authentically vintage.
It shoe alert!
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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