Ava Gilchrist
When it comes to jeans, some cuts instantly come to mind. Yet, there's one underrated style of denim that we consider to be a classic, and that’s mom jeans.
In this category, there are, of course, Y2K-approved skinny jeans (even if they aren’t as popular right now as they once were), but boot-cut, loose and boyfriend jeans are also up there as some of the most iconic jeans silhouettes. Still, mom jeans are one shape that is often overlooked when compared to other more trendy shapes.
Paying homage to the ’80s, mom jeans are typically high-waisted with a looser fit around the thighs and a leg that tapers toward the ankle. They’re the sort of thing an American mom (hence the American spelling of the style) would have worn with a tucked-in blouse, a black Western-style leather belt, white socks and loafers.
Nowadays, you’re far more likely to see celebrities stepping out in mom jeans paired with a long coat, which is always a wise winter fashion investment, plain white tee, and strappy sandals. The attraction? Their relaxed but sculpting fit makes them the perfect denim option for those whose aesthetic teeters sexy and effortless.
Like all jeans, just about anything you choose to wear them with will work; such is the root of their appeal. Still, there are certain pieces that work better with jeans—specifically mom jeans—than others. Most commonly, we find ourselves being asked which shoe styles work best with denim, so we’ve set about trying to answer that for you. From loafers and trainers to boots and heels, here are the ten shoes to wear with mom jeans, as demonstrated by some of our fashionable friends.
The 9 Best Shoes to Wear with Mom Jeans
1. Retro Trainers
Style Notes: While all trainers tend to loan themselves well to jeans, we think classic dad trainers balance the streamlined silhouette of the mom jean look.
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An olive trench coat is so elegant.
The scoop neckline is so chic.
Truly beautiful.
We've spotted so many stylish people sporting Asics trainers.
Or, take style notes from Hailey Bieber's New York street style and wear your mom jeans with classic dad sneakers.
2. Loafers
Style Notes: Proof that fashion trends always come full circle. This is a great spin of taking mom jeans back to their origins by wearing them with a pair of classic leather chain-detail loafers.
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So many great outfits include a classic blazer.
So sleek—and perfect for work.
These are some of the most comfortable jeans I've tried.
These could easily pass for designer.
Penny loafers are quintessentially "old money". But if styled right—like how Zoë Kravtiz wears hers—they can also feel quite youthfully elegant.
3. Simple Boots
Style Notes: If you like your mom jeans on the long side, might we suggest keeping your shoe choice fuss-free and pared-back? A no-frills pair of leather ankle boots is the ideal option for far-reaching hems.
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The collarless detail on this piece brings such a nice counterpoint to your other winter jackets.
Not Steve Jobs' black turtleneck.
The perfect fit.
You'll rewear these for years to come.
Featuring an elegant curved heel and sensual pointed toe, this Khaite ankle boots has gone to the top of of my winter footwear wish list.
4. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: If you prefer an ankle-grazing pair of mom jeans, then a sleek pair of ballet flats is a good idea. The classic shoe has returned to style prominence for the instant polish it adds to any look, and the flat sole makes these a clever option for those on the go.
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We really rate oversized black blazer.
This pastel pink is such a beautiful—and ballerina-approved—hue.
Levi's 501s are a best seller for a reason.
This pair comes in a sumptuous suede.
Or, for a Mary Jane style in this delicious tan velvety suede, we love Le Monde Beryl.
5. Birkenstocks
Style Notes: This is the exact kind of relaxed yet considered outfit I dream of pulling off. The tonal Birkenstocks are the perfect finishing touch, and I matching scarf detail, too.
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A chic layering piece.
Undeniably cool.
This soft taupe hue looks great with blue, black and white mom jeans.
The ideal pilates shoe.
6. Kitten Heels
Style Notes: Kitten heels have been making a big comeback over the past year, and at the moment I'm particularly loving the nineties-inspired styles. These studded, pointed-toe versions look especially cool in contrast to the relaxed silhouette of mom jeans.
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A cardigan always comes in handy.
Such an elevated tank, and available in XXS to 4XL.
Our editors are obsessed with these jeans.
The ultimate nineties vibe, especially in this gorgeous espresso colour.
These look very high end.
7. Thong Sandals
Style Notes: Simple they may be, a thong sandal or flip-flop is the ideal minimalist flat to pair with the oversized mom jean. And the good news is, they'll work just as well with skirts and dresses, too.
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I can't resists a classic black shirt.
Made for layering.
I love a dark blue denim.
How cool is this slouchy silhouette and gorgeous olive tone?
A minimalist's dream flat.
Flats with a personality.
8. Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: While it might not be the pair of shoes you grab for a shopping day or long walk, there's no denying that strappy sandals look incredible paired with looser-fitting mom jeans.
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The silk finish adds an elegant touch to this look.
This delicate gold bangle is the perfect finishing touch.
This pair has made its way into many of our editors baskets.
Understated and elegant.
T-bar sandals are the ultimate way of adding a unique touch to a classic jeans and an elevate shoe outfit.
9. Slides
Style Notes: When the sunnier days come around, minimal slip-on slider sandals help elevate your mom-jean look.
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Perfect for wearing over your shoulders when the sun is out.
A plain white t-shirt is a wardrobe hero all year round.
This dark wash really caught my eye.
These look seriously chic.
The kind of shoes you can wear on holiday with a summery mini dress, but also in the office with a pair of tailored trousers.
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