Lizzy wears Maison Margiela's Tabi ballerina flats with classic blue jeans.
We all know how versatile a pair of jeans can be. After all, what other garment can take you from date night to the 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 jeans-and-shoe combinations validated by the style elite, and then shop the pieces you need to re-create their impressive looks.
1. STRAPPY SANDALS
Style Notes: If you've already invested in a pair of thin-strap sandals, rest assured that they look excellent with jeans. Their simple silhouette makes for a premium footwear choice and will help make even bleached-blue or faded-black denim look luxe.
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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.
Fashion's favourite sunglasses.
We're here for the chunky, low heel you'll be able to wear all day long.
2. BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: Ballet flats are firmly back on our fashion radar. Typically low cut on the foot, they work with just about any jeans length, though we think they look really chic when worn with white ankle-grazing jeans.
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Such a pretty print.
I love this cheerful take on the leather jacket.
Tapered-leg jean shapes are trending and so comfortable.
Keep things classic with black ballet flats.
3. TENNIS SHOES
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.
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I've had a leather shacket on my wish list for the longest time, and I love this minimalistic option.
An update on basic jersey.
Straight-leg pairs are so versatile.
Nike Air Force 1s are like gold dust at the moment.
4. CHUNKY FLIP-FLOPS
Style Notes: When it comes to relaxed-fit jeans, take inspiration from cool Cali girls and wear them with a pair of flip-flops. A cardigan and bra top will finish the look.
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British weather is unpredictable, so a cardigan is key.
I like the neckline on this bra top.
So chic.
These have been best sellers at M&S for the past couple of years, and now they're back for 2023.
5. ESPADRILLE WEDGES
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.
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The perfect holiday shirt.
Zara's denim edit has never been stronger than it is now.
A designer basket bag that's worth saving for.
If you're going to do espadrilles, make them Castañer.
6. LOAFERS
Style Notes: Few combinations feel more 2023 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.
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A linen-blend trench will be lighter for the warmer months.
The ideal base layer for spring outfits.
Another pair of high-street jeans that gets rave reviews.
Penny loafers always look sophisticated.
7. HEELED MULES
Style Notes: Want that sandal look without having to book in for a pedicure? Then it's closed-toe mules to the rescue. Heeled pairs will help balance out wide-leg jeans, but they look just as sleek with straight-leg denim, too.
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I love the tie detail on this blouse.
The quickest way to look Parisian.
Our editors love this jeans cut from & Other Stories.
These also come in patent black if that's more your thing.
8. SLINGBACKS
Style Notes: Another shoe that's taking over in 2023, slingbacks—particularly those with block heels—will elevate any jeans ensemble. As will an oversized blazer.
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A staple you'll come to rely upon.
A welcome change from fail-safe 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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