I Think These 6 Simple Shoes Look Great With Jeans, Skirts and Trousers

In the vast world of fashion there's a quiet corner where style and simplicity meet, where aesthetics such as "quiet luxury" are born and basics thrive. And at the heart of it sits a lineup of simple shoe trends that we're going to take a closer look at. 

These are shoes that have a knack for taking even the most refined outfits to new levels of sophistication. With their clean designs and understated charm, they truly embody the term "less is more". Just picture sleek white sneakers elevating a casual jeans-and-tee combination, or a pair of anti-trend black ankle boots that can change the tone of a floaty dress or pair of trousers in a flash.

These are the sorts of simple shoe trends that I think most wardrobes would benefit from, based on their sheer versatility alone. 

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

What's so great about these shoe styles is their ability to mould to anything you pair them with. They're the go-to foundation fashion people who want to spend less time assembling their looks, all while embracing the beauty of uncomplicated chic. Won't you join them? Scroll on to see six simple shoe trends that will stand the test of time in your footwear collection. 

1. Barely-There Sandals

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(Image credit: @lois_la_mode)

Style Notes: Embrace the warm weather (while we still have it) some barely-there, thin-strap sandals. These delicate yet stylish shoes will never detract from the rest of your outfit, making them a great pairing for statement prints and dramatic silhouettes.

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2. Ballet Flats

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

One of the quickest ways to enhance your everyday looks is with ballet flats. With their soft, flexible construction and elegant silhouette, these versatile shoes transition outfits from office to evening without a hitch, adding a touch of polish.

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3. Classic White Trainers

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Style Notes: Nothing beats the timeless appeal of classic white trainers. These iconic shoes not only provide all-day comfort but also lend a fresh vibe to any ensemble. Whether you're running errands or meeting friends, white sneakers complement various get-ups, be it jeans, dresses, skirts or tailored trousers. 

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4. Slingback Heels

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Nothing says sophistication quite like slingback heels. Featuring a strap around the back of the ankle, they create a sleek silhouette and give added support where a mule can lack. These are the shoes I grab for any elevated occasion, whether it's a dinner with friends or an all-day wedding. 

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5. Streamlined Loafers

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: Simple and with everlasting appeal, it's little wonder that loafers feature heavily in the outfit rotations of social media's best dressers. Although there's something to be said for chunky pairs, if a truly classic finish is what you seek, look to streamlined loafers without cumbersome soles. Worn with tailored trousers or city shorts, they're sure to bring some refinement to your wares.

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6. Staple Black Boots

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(Image credit: @isabellacoheen)

Style Notes: An essential in every fashion person's collection, black ankle boots are perhaps the most overlooked shoe style on our list, often forgotten about in the face of bigger boots trends. However, a well-chosen pair won't just last you a season or two—take care of them and you'll serve you for life. Right now, I'm gravitating towards styles with squared-off toes. It's a style that started out life as a trend but has stuck around.

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Next Up: 7 Anti-Trend Outfits People in London, Paris and Stockholm Are Wearing Right Now

Opening Image: @symphonyofsilk

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.