Wide-Leg Jeans Look 10 Times Cooler When Styled With These It Girl–Approved Shoe Trends
When a denim trend is this popular for this long, you know it’s something good. I’m not done investing in the wide-leg jeans trend. To me, it’s more than a trend—it’s a long-lasting movement that is insanely flattering. I'm biased because this style has become my favorite and stayed at the top of my denim collection for years, but since I noticed how long they make my legs look, wide-leg jeans are all I want to wear when digging through my denim pile in the morning.
After seeing the best-dressed fashionable celebrities (from Hailey Bieber to Harry Styles) lean toward wider fits for quite some time, my mind has been set. But with all this in mind, I have to share the most frequently asked question from readers: What shoes do you pull to rival such an all-encompassing pair of jeans?
I've noticed some common choices on the Instagram feeds of fashion enthusiasts: It seems they've all been leaning toward 12 specific shoe styles when wearing wide-leg jeans. So, if you're ready to embrace this denim trend (which I hope to persuade you to do), keep scrolling to find out why each shoe style complements the jeans, and check out the pairs I recommend trying.
1. Furry Shoes
You know what? I’m just going to start with the most controversial option, but trust me, I believe in it. Furry shoes have been emerging from the runways the past few seasons, and with it being such a bold trend, I love the idea of having them peek out just a bit from beneath the hem of a pair of wide-leg jeans.
2. Slim Sneakers
This might feel like an obvious answer, but it must be stated: Seeing a pair of sneakers obscured by the hem of a pair of jeans is a new way to perceive them, and I’m all about that.
3. Ballet Flats
Wide-leg jeans can come across as more masculine pants, so choosing a dainty pair of flats is just the right idea. It’s a juxtaposition the world needs to see.
4. Statement Pumps
For the jeans I own with extra-long hemlines, I dread the thought of dragging them down New York City sidewalks and coming home with any trace of my morning walk. Adding a pair of statement pumps is perfect for someone who wants to have even longer-looking legs and avoid any dust or grime.
5. Riding Boots
Boots also get a new meaning for me when attached to a pair of wide-leg jeans. I think flat riding styles are still the epitome of luxury, and they’re not going anywhere.
6. Thong Sandals
If you think this shoe trend is not a fit for fall, think again. I’m certainly still wearing it despite the cool temps, and so are fashion icons like Ashley Olsen and Kendall Jenner. A pair of thong sandals is the perfect accessory if this is you.
7. Heeled Boots
As the weather cools down, you'll find yourself reaching for stylish long, wide-leg jeans, paired perfectly with a set of elegant heeled boots. Whether you opt for slender or chunky heels, in classic black or rich brown, you simply can't go amiss with this timeless combination. Fashion icons like Jennifer Lopez and Sydney Sweeney consistently turn to this pairing for its effortlessly sophisticated and relaxed look.
8. Clogs
Hear me out: Clogs possess an undeniably cool aesthetic when styled with wide-leg jeans. Plus, the pairing is on-trend with the boho aesthetic that has taken over pre-fall style.
9. Boat Shoes
In the past two months, boat shoes have been gaining popularity. The most popular way to style them? Various denim styles, particularly wide-leg jeans. Although many influencers have been favoring Miu Miu's suede version, numerous other choices are available in the market to cater to different preferences and budgets.
10. Loafers
Loafers are incredibly versatile shoes that are perfect for the upcoming season. They can be effortlessly paired with a variety of outfits, including maxi skirts, minidresses, and wide-leg jeans. What's particularly appealing about combining loafers with wide-leg denim is how they elevate casual jeans, adding a touch of polish to create a well-balanced and stylish look.
11. Dad Sneakers
In the wardrobe of every stylish Scandinavian woman, you'll find a winning combination: wide-leg jeans paired with "dad" sneakers. This pairing never fails to impress. Since both pieces are oversize and chunky, it's best to style them with a slim top or jacket to achieve a well-balanced look.
12. Strappy Sandals
No matter what time of year it is, it's hard to go on Instagram without spotting a style influencer rocking their wide-leg jeans paired with strappy sandals, like The Row's Bare Mid-Heel Strappy Sandals (you know the ones). These minimalist shoes sport a slender mid-heel and precisely positioned thin straps that effortlessly elevate any denim ensemble. They're the ideal choice if you're looking to flaunt a little skin.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of experience in the fashion industry to the editorial team. Since joining Who What Wear in 2021, Sierra has made her mark by expertly blending luxury and accessible fashion content. Whether she's decoding the latest runway presentations or crafting a perfectly curated shopping list, Sierra's keen eye and relatable approach have solidified her as a trusted voice in the fashion space. She's also reported on major industry events like Paris Fashion Week and lent her expertise to red carpet coverage, ensuring her audience gets an insider's view of the most glamorous moments in style. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. Her ability to translate editorial expertise into viral social media content sets her apart, seamlessly bringing her articles and personality to life for a new generation of readers and followers. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra brings a unique perspective to the fashion industry that is informed by her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.
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