Jeans are always a good choice since you can easily dress them up or down according to the occasion. But with all the different footwear styles, it can get hard to figure out what shoes to wear with jeans. You want to look well-proportioned and put-together – not like you grabbed the first thing you saw in your closet.
But sometimes that’s easier said than done. You have this combo in your head but when you try it on, it doesn’t look nearly as good as you imagined. So as you’re changing outfits and running late, your frustration rises and you start hating your favorite denim.
If that’s the case, I’m here to help you. As a huge fan of fashion and all things shoe-related, I think I have a few aces up my sleeve that will ease your struggles.
What shoes to wear with jeans each season
In order to look like you know what you’re doing, it’s important to be familiar with different shoe options that work for different seasons. You can’t wear your strappy sandals in the middle of the winter. (I mean, you can, but people are definitely going to stare).
That’s why I want to make it simple for you. I’ll be giving you all of the different seasonal shoe options that go well with jeans. After that, I’ll focus on specific types of jeans and shoes that go best with each one of them.
Let’s start right away and solve your fashion fiasco.
1. Sneakers
Sneakers are a staple all year round, come rain or shine. The market is filled with all kinds of models, so you’re bound to find something that works for you.
From platform sneakers that give that business-casual look to retro sneakers that look great combined with preppy-style clothes – at the end of the day, if you own a pair of white sneakers that don’t seem to go out of style, it will always be a safe choice when it comes to jeans.
All in all, there are plenty of options you can choose from that will complement your style.
2. Converse
Technically, Converse are sneakers but they’re a category in and of itself, so they deserve to be mentioned separately. The world has been going crazy about them for decades and it comes as no surprise.
These kicks are such a classic that they simply go with everything. No matter if you’re getting ready for brunch or a casual stroll around the park, pair jeans with your favorite Converse and you’ll be good to go.
3. Loafers
Once boring and lame, loafers have now become a cool and trendy footwear option. And to prove it, just check out all the celebs who have been rocking them daily.
Paired with jeans, they give off effortless and timeless vibes, which is what many of us are craving to achieve. So, if you’re in a hurry and want to look good but don’t want to give the impression that you tried too hard, loafers are a solid option.
You can wear them almost all year round if you find yourself the right pair. And they work well with various styles of jeans, but we’ll talk more about that in a minute.
4. Oxfords
You can style Oxfords however you want, most times of the year. From “I’m a businesswoman who has a meeting in 10 minutes” to “I’m an alternative girl who loves to break fashion rules,” these shoes are definitely an option you can play with.
They can be a bit on the chunky side, so if that’s not something you’re interested in, then maybe you should skip them or at least try and find a pair that’s more subtle.
5. Pointed-toe boots
When I think of pointed-toe boots, there are two things that come to mind: feminine and powerful. When you put them on, these boots definitely give the impression that you know what you’re doing.
Even if you had a terrible day and don’t feel like yourself, I challenge you to put these shoes on and embrace the confidence boost that comes with wearing them.
I can’t explain it, but I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. Pointed-toe boots make you feel like you’re a strong woman who knows what she wants in life. And that is the best feeling ever.
If you’re anything like me, you probably want to wear them each and every month, but unfortunately, your feet will suffer in summer. So, they’re not the best option for hot, sunny days.
6. Lug boots
Lug boots are a perfect choice for cozy fall and winter outfits. They’re chunky enough to resist harsh weather conditions but pretty enough to take your OOTD to a whole new level.
These boots go great with different styles of jeans. From your favorite skinny pair that you still don’t want to throw out despite everyone telling you they’re out of fashion, to the trendy wide-fit jeans that keep getting more popular.
7. Western boots
Sure, Western boots aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. But that doesn’t change the fact that they look amazing when paired with a suitable pair of jeans.
They’re daring, fun, and appealing to the eye. And even if you’re not the biggest fan of them, I bet you’d change your mind if you were to try them on with a cozy fall outfit.
8. Lace-up boots
These boots are a winter staple and work wonders with the right pair of jeans. They can look a bit weird if you wear them with something that covers them completely, such as wide-leg jeans.
So, choose your outfit wisely and let these boots shine and show their full potential.
9. Chelsea boots
It’s raining and all you’d love to do is snuggle up with a book, but you have to step outside. Should you put on your favorite skinny jeans and tuck them into that new pair of Chelsea boots?
To me, it sounds like the making of a great, effortless outfit. You really can’t go wrong with these boots.
Chelsea boots are an excellent option since you can easily dress them up or down. Just make sure you’re fit for the occasion and that’s about it.
10. Combat boots
What shoes to wear with jeans when it’s the middle of winter and you’re already shivering at the mere thought of stepping outside? Well, what about combat boots?
These shoes are probably one of my favorite footwear options. There’s something about them that draws you in.
I find myself wearing them all the time during the cold months since they go great with so many outfits. You can easily pair them with a feminine, floral dress to add a bit of edginess to your look. Or you can keep it simple and style them with your favorite jeans.
No matter what you choose, you’ll look amazing.
11. Pointed pumps or flats
Generally speaking, pointed shoes go great with jeans, especially wide and baggy ones. They’re also great for occasions when you want a put-together, classy look.
Pair any pair of jeans with your favorite pointed pumps and you’re good to go. And if you’re not a huge fan of heels, pointed flats give the same illusion of elegance while making sure you don’t end up struggling the whole night because of footache.
12. Strappy sandals
Strappy sandals have become a real summer staple. They elevate every outfit, no matter which style you go for.
If you want to stay comfortable, choose flat strappy sandals (possibly in bright colors) or even wedges. If you want to add some height to your outfit, wear sandals with blocked or thin heels since they look great with jeans.
It all comes down to your style preferences.
13. Slides
Slides are a fabulous footwear option that can be easily paired with jeans, especially if you’re going for something casual and comfy.
The market is filled with many models of slides, but I’m sure you already own a pair you adore. So, when the sun starts shining and you’re planning to go out for a walk, pairing your jeans with slides is a safe choice.
14. Birkenstocks
You either love them or hate them, there’s no in-between. But if you’re an avid fan of Birkenstocks, then you have your spring/summer outfit planned.
These shoes are perfect for those days when you want to feel comfortable but still look nice. They’re the go-to footwear option for those who’d rather spend their days in slippers but need something socially acceptable when stepping outside.
Thank God we have Birkenstocks!
15. Flats
Flats are an everyday shoe staple that pairs incredibly well with jeans. You can wear them no matter the occasion since there are plenty of designs to choose from. Street style or glam; it doesn’t really matter what you’re going for – these shoes will definitely save the day.
16. Clogs
Clogs have become more popular over the years, but similar to Birkenstocks, people either love them or hate them. If you want a casual option when you don’t feel like heels or flats, clogs are somewhere in between and will certainly make your outfit stand out.
Best shoes to wear with 8 different styles of jeans
Now that have a general idea of what shoes go well with jeans, let’s get more details on specific jean styles.
Obsessed with wide-leg jeans but struggling to put an outfit together since every pair of shoes you’ve tried looks weird with them? Or maybe you enjoy wearing cropped jeans but your footwear options refuse to cooperate.
I want to make this easier for you by giving you a list of shoes you can wear with specific pairs of jeans. Once you finish reading, all of your fashion dilemmas will be gone and you’ll finally be able to rock your favorite denim.
1. Skinny jeans
Right now, skinny jeans seem to be a taboo topic. Some believe they’re out of style while others don’t want to replace them, no matter what.
Here at Shoes Cast, we believe that everyone should wear what makes them happy. It’s the same with skinny jeans. If you love them, then don’t give up on them just because someone keeps telling you they’re not trendy anymore.
Anyway, back to our topic. What shoes to wear with jeans, or to be more specific, with skinny ones? Here are some of the best choices.
Cowboy boots: Ankle or knee-high cowboy boots match skinny jeans perfectly. Give them a try and see what you think.
Sneakers: Retro sneakers or a pricier Golden Goose? Adidas Superstar or Nike Air Force? No matter which ones you go for, they all work great with skinny jeans. Sneakers are a safe choice but just make sure not to go too chunky on the soles. Tight jeans don’t tend to look best with bulky sneakers.
Converse: Skinny jeans and Converse – a match you can’t go wrong with. So, if you own a pair of All Stars and have no idea what to wear with your skinnies, dilemma solved!
Loafers: They are a fantastic business casual option that pairs well with skinny jeans. The two together give that clean girl vibe which is what most women have been going for recently.
Lace-up boots: When you want to stay warm during winter and don’t know what to wear with your skinny jeans, give knee-high lace-up boots a try. They’re not as chunky as combat boots, for example, which is why they go well with tight pants.
Pointed pumps or flats: These look amazing with skinny jeans since they balance out the tightness of your pants. You can easily dress them up or down for the occasion. So, even though you’re wearing just jeans, you can still look put-together.
Strappy sandals: A summer must-have that looks fab with skinnies. They’re an amazing option for late walks around the city and wine tastings. You only need to choose between heels or flats.
2. Bootcut jeans
These jeans are a bit tighter above the knees after which they slightly flare out. Some fashionistas state that this style of jeans works for each and every body type. So, if you want to give them a go, these are the shoes to wear with them.
Pointed pumps: Pointed pumps are elegant and classy, and generally, they go well with many different types of denim, including bootcut. Put them on and you’ll look like you have some serious business to finish.
Loafers: Flat, classy loafers will also go well with bootcut jeans. This combo will make you appear as if you put thought into your outfit.
Converse: Need we even say anything about these shoes combined with bootcut jeans? They simply look great, that’s it.
3. Boyfriend jeans
A lower waist and a roomy fit around the thighs are what boyfriend jeans are all about. They’re a bit wider than mom jeans but not as wide as some baggy models. So, it can be hard to find an appropriate pair of shoes to go with them. Actually, it used to be hard – now I have solutions!
Sneakers: From chunky sneakers that have taken the world by storm to the On Cloud running shoes, most sneakers work well with boyfriend jeans. Choose which style you like the most, and you’ll rock those jeans.
Combat boots: Both boyfriend jeans and combat boots give that masculine, army vibe. If that’s something you’re into, then you can’t go wrong with this combo.
Strappy sandals: I’m all about mix and match. So pairing your comfy boyfriend jeans with feminine strappy sandals is something that works great, no matter what others tell you.
Pointed-toe pumps: Again, a wider pair of jeans worn with tight-fitting and sleek pumps. Chef’s kiss!
4. Mom jeans
Mom jeans have a higher waist and straight legs that usually reach right above the ankles. They’re a popular choice among women since they’re comfy and easy to style. When it comes to shoes, here are the best options you can go for.
Converse: Mom jeans are a staple of every closet and Converses are no different. Pair them together and you’re all set.
Loafers: There’s something about loafers paired with mom jeans that makes you look put-together. It’s such a simple outfit but it never ceases to amaze.
Flats: If you’re a mom who’s always on the go, then mom jeans combined with flats are probably your safe outfit – something you reach for whenever you don’t know what to wear. Honestly, it makes sense since this combination works well, so why would you change it?
Strappy sandals: Even though you wear your mom jeans on a daily basis, pairing them with strappy sandals elevates the whole look. Before the heels, you were ready for a daily walk. Once you put them on, you’re ready for a crazy night out.
Birkenstocks: If you’re a fan of Birkenstocks, then pairing them with your favorite mom jeans is the best decision you’re going to make. When you don’t have any plans for the day and simply want to look and feel good, this should be your outfit of choice.
Read more: 8 Not-So-Shabby Shoes To Wear With Straight-Leg Jeans
5. Wide-leg jeans
Elegant, simple, and stylish. Wide-leg jeans give those exact vibes. They work so well on different body types, which is probably why many women go crazy about them. But what shoes to wear with them?
Pointed-toe pumps: Elegant pumps make these jeans appear even more sleek and classy, especially if you opt for black denim.
Strappy sandals: It’s sunny outside and you don’t know what to wear with your wide-leg jeans. Well, hop into your bright-colored strappy sandals and you’re good to go.
Loafers: Simple tanned loafers and wide-leg jeans are a tried-and-tested combo you can’t go wrong with.
Oxfords: Chunky Oxfords can work great with wide-leg jeans, especially if you’re getting ready to go to the office.
6. Cropped jeans
Wide or tight-fit, cropped jeans can be a bit awkward to style. The main issue is their length, which is why it’s important to pair them with appropriate footwear. Here are some options.
Strappy sandals: Sandals with longer straps that you can tie above your ankles work great with cropped jeans. They make you look fashionable and classy, even though you’re wearing just denim.
Converse: Cropped jeans usually work better with low-sole sneakers. Chunky kicks aren’t the best choice, so replace them with your beloved Converse and you’re all good.
Slides: Flat, elegant slides are also fabulous with cropped jeans. They give that “I wasn’t trying hard but I still look put-together” look.
Flats: Rounded, square, or pointed-toe flats. No matter which ones you opt for, they all look amazing with cropped jeans. It’s a simple yet appealing combo.
7. Baggy jeans
Comfy, stylish, and sassy. That’s how I would describe baggy jeans.
Some women steer clear of them, but once they learn how to style them with the right footwear, everything changes. Here are some options you’re going to love.
Combat boots: Chunky + baggy = She knows what she’s doing. Pair your favorite pair of combat boots with your baggy jeans and you got yourself a ‘fit with an attitude.
Strappy sandals: Baggy jeans have a boyish vibe while strappy sandals are a true piece of femininity. Combine them and you get a dream outfit.
Loafers: Chunky loafers and baggy jeans can work great when you’re going for the oversized look. If you’re into that, then you know what you’ll be wearing tomorrow.
Pointed-toe pumps: Put your baggies on, climb into your pointed-toe pumps, and look at yourself in the mirror. What do you see? A woman who knows fashion better than anything, right? This is a great way to elevate your baggy jeans and make them look a bit more classy.
Slides: If you’re going on a casual stroll with friends and feel like wearing your baggy jeans, then slides should be your footwear go-to. Together, these two will help you achieve that relaxed, street-style fit that always looks cool.
8. Flared jeans
Old trends are making a comeback and that’s why we’re now rocking flared jeans that used to be popular back in the ’70s. However, styling them can be hard when you don’t know what you’re doing.
These jeans usually reach the floor, making it challenging to find appropriate footwear. And don’t even get me started on the bell-bottom shape that isn’t easy to style. Don’t worry, I have a couple of options you’re going to love.
Clogs: Platformed clogs are stunning when paired with flared jeans. They add a bit of height, just enough for your shoes to peek through under those long pants.
Strappy sandals: If you opt for strappy sandals, then I suggest you go for ones with blocked heels. That way, you’ll get that additional height that’ll elevate your whole outfit.
Lug boots: These shoes have thicker soles, which work great with flared jeans. In this case, the chunkier, the better! So, pair your winter favorite with these ’70s classics and you’re sure to steal some looks.
