I've Worked It Out—These Are the 7 Best Shoes to Wear With Long Shorts
After so many months of paying our dues in thick, woolly layers, at last, the sun is rearing its head and it's time to celebrate in the only way we know how—through clothing.
Excitingly for us there are some fresh summer trends entering the rotation this year—including my new favourite trouser trend: long shorts. A pallet cleanser to the micro shorts that have dominated fashion crowds and runways for so long, this season, the laid-back long shorts trend is on the up and honestly, I don't think that shorts have every looked chicer.
Still new on the scene, I've rounded up seven of the chicest shoe pairings that always look good with long shorts, in order to give you a head start on styling the trend. Read on to discover the seven best shoes to wear with long shorts below.
DISCOVER THE CHICEST SHOES AND LONG SHORTS PAIRINGS HERE:
1. MARY JANES
Style Notes: Adding a pretty and feminine edge to your daily styling, the mary jane shoe trend is a summer wardrobe staple. Giving the relaxed shorts a smarter edge, this clever combination makes for an elegant outfit that you can style throughout the working week and beyond.
SHOP LONG SHORTS AND MARY JANES:
Mary janes are such an easy way to elevate your casual style.
2. BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: I'll always come back to ballet flats when I want to inject a classy edge. Leaning in to the elegant nature of the longer hemline, ballet flats and long shorts work together to give your outfit an ultra-polished energy.
SHOP LONG SHORTS AND BALLET FLATS:
The linen composition makes these naturally breathable and ideal for hot summer days.
These dark red shoes are an easy way to add a pop of colour into your summer wardrobe.
3. THONG SANDALS
Style Notes: Lightweight, casual and perfect for hot summer days, thong sandals are the trending shoe silhouette that you can catch me in all summer long. Wear with long-line shorts for a breezy weekend look, and dress your style up with a boxy blazer or button down.
SHOP LONG SHORTS AND THONG SANDALS:
Wear with the matching waistcoat or style with a black top.
4. SLINGBACKS
Style Notes: Slingback shoes are one of my favourite footwear trends of the year. Classy, comfortable, and so very elegant, the sleek silhouette delivers a graceful look every time. To style an outfit that feels both trendy and timeless, pair your favourite slingbacks with longline denim shorts and style with a white tee or shirt.
SHOP LONG SHORTS AND SLINGBACKS:
The non-stretch denim shorts will take a little while to break in.
Slingback kitten heels are such an easy way to dress up your favourite jeans.
5. CAGED SHOES
Style Notes: If you're living out the summer months in a city, then the caged sandal trend is the one you need to know. More protective that a strappy sandal or mesh flat, these chunky shoes ensure a comfortable stride and a chic silhouette. Wear with long denim shorts for an easy ensemble you can feel comfortable in all day long.
SHOP LONG SHORTS AND CAGED SHOES:
This chocolate brown colour styles so well with blue and burgundy shades.
6. COWBOY BOOTS
Style Notes: Though we're well into the summer months now, the cowboy boots trend continues to thrive. Styling so well with long cotton and denim shorts, the easy combination will keep you comfortable and cosy on those cooler summer days.
SHOP LONG SHORTS AND COWBOY BOOTS:
I always come back to Agolde for the excellent denim items.
7. TRAINERS
Style Notes: Sporty shorts and chunky trainers are the unsung hero of my weekend wardrobe. Lean in to the comfortable energy and style with a roomy jumper, otherwise throw on a cotton shirt or boxy blazer to dress up your look.
SHOP LONG SHORTS AND TRAINERS:
These comfortable days are perfect for day-to-day use.
Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.
On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
-
So Long, Classic Loafers—It Girls in Every Stylish City Are Wearing This Cool Alternative
Dress like an in-the-know fashion girl.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
The Rumors Are True: Peep-Toe Pumps Are Making a Chic Comeback in 2025
Ready or not, here they come.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
J.Law! Kendall! Laura! It Girls Are in Agreement About This Luxurious Fall Shoe Trend
Comfort, meet style.
By Eliza Huber
-
The Rich-Looking Sneaker Trend That's Set to Dominate in 2025
Wealth's the word.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
The 9 Most-Wanted Shoe Trends of Winter 2024, Period
The only styles to know.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
J.Lo Just Wore This Highly Controversial Trend in the Most Elegant Way Possible
She can do anything.
By Eliza Huber
-
I Live in Brooklyn—These Are the 5 Current Trends I Never See People Wearing
Buzzier than burgundy and suede.
By Natalie Cantell
-
Olivia Wilde Wore the Sold-Out Sneakers I'm Desperate to Get My Hands On
Found 'em.
By Eliza Huber