Sorry Trainers—These Breakthrough Shoe Trends Make Leggings Look Significantly Chicer
The chicest shoes to wear with leggings in 2026 aren't trainers. These are the two shoe trends fashion people are wearing instead.
The chicest shoe trends to wear with leggings have just landed—and no, they're not a new-season pair of trainers. If you want to give your athleisure favourites an elevated energy, Hailey Bieber has just put me on to two shoe trends that make leggings look chicer.
First spotted in a comfy pair of flared leggings and a simple black tank, the model slung a white knit around her waist, pulled her hair back with a zig-zag headband and shielded her eyes with a pair of slim black sunglasses. Whilst the rest of her outfit provided a sleek foundation, it was her white micro-wedge flip-flops that caught my attention. A far chicer alternative to your average plastic flip-flop, Hailey's fresh white pair brought a polished energy to her look, whilst the micro wedge added a subtle lift. The sleek flip-flop design also introduced a '90s sensibility, keeping the whole outfit feeling low-key, effortless and decidedly chic.
Spotted once more in the same pared-back foundation, I noticed Hailey ditch trainers again, this time opting for a shoe trend I expect to see everywhere once September rolls around. A natural evolution of the ballet-flat trend, high-vamp flat shoes are set to become autumn's favourite silhouette. Polished and preppy without feeling fussy, their sleek shape lends leggings a more put-together feel whilst remaining easy enough for everyday wear.
Whilst Massimo Dutti's Toe Sandals (£100) have already been recognised as one of summer's most important shoe trends according to the Lyst Index, I'm willing to bet that high-vamp flat shoes could be on there next time around.
So, if you're looking for shoe trends that can elevate leggings whilst still offering the comfort you'll want to keep reaching for, read on to shop the best micro-wedge flip-flops and high-vamp flats to wear now.
Shop Micro Wedge Flip-Flops and High-Vamp Flats:
Shop the specific micro wedge flip-flops that Hailey loves.
These high-vamp flats are perfect for early autumn styling.
Whilst I love these in the black and white colour way, they also come in four other shades.
Whilst I love these in dark navy, they also come in chocolate brown.
The glistening silver finish elevates your style with ease.
These also come in brown and light grey.
These are much more elevated than your average plastic flip-flops.
Be quick! These are on their way to selling out.
The baby blue colour trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.
