I've Done the Research—Here's Every Single Shoe Style That Looks Good With Jorts

For the past few months there's been a buzz throughout the Who What Wear UK office, all thanks to the array of stellar trends that Summer 2023 has offered up. We've debated the mesh shoes trend, drooled over quiet luxury, and even dipped our toe into boho romantic. Right now, one of the trends that I personally can't stop thinking about since spotting it on the likes of Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid. Now feels as good a time as any to try it out. The trend in question? Jorts. 

A longer denim-shorts style that sits close to, on or below the knee, jorts are a revival from Y2K that feels particularly in line with the nostalgic feel of fashion at the moment. And as we go further into summer, I'm sure they're going to become even more prevalent. When taking on a new trend, it's not just about a singular piece, but how that piece can be incorporated into a look. So, figuring out the other elements that are required to ensure you actually wear your new purchase should be thoughtfully considered.

Personally, I find the most important thing to be deciphering which shoes worth with the item in question, as that informs where I intend to wear it. If it works with trainers, I can figure out the styling for weekends or the office, and if strappy sandals fit the bill I'll be able to create a chic evening look.

Once I started my deep-dive into the jorts trend, I found they're a lot more versatile than I ever gave them credit for. From Hailey's fisherman-sandals pairing to Emili's statement heels (see below), you'll be hard pressed to find an occasion that jorts don't work for. Trust me, I'm as surprised as you are.

And to prove my point, I've turned to some of our favourite fashion people to show you the very best jorts-and-shoes pairings around. 

1. Fisherman Sandals

Style Notes: Starting off strong, Hailey Bieber offers up fisherman sandals and white jorts as the pairing of the summer. Extra style points for adding socks. 

GET THE LOOK:

2. Retro Trainers

Style Notes: Trainer trends are leaning towards retro this season, and the laid-back feel is harmonious with relaxed, raw-hem jorts. 

GET THE LOOK:

3. Wedge Sandals

Style Notes: One of my favourite styling options is to lean into the '00s aesthetic with a pair of trending wedge heel sandals. 

4. Classic Loafers

Style Notes: I hadn't previously thought that jorts and loafers were compatible, but Emilie swiftly proved me wrong. I plan to recreate this look immediately. 

GET THE LOOK:

5. Statement Heels

Style Notes: If you thought jorts were reserved for day time, you'd be wrong. A statement heel makes these denim shorts just as relevant for evening as classic jeans. 

GET THE LOOK:

6. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: If jorts are your way to push your fashion boundaries, then stick to a classic for your footwear. Prime example, ballet flats. 

Next Up: 7 Easy Ways People in Paris Are Styling Their Jeans This Summer