This Jeans and Sandal Formula is the Key to Looking Polished All Summer
White jeans with black sandals is an outfit formula I'll never grow tired of. Discover why I think it's the ultimate summer combination.


Getting dressed in the summer calls for a fresh perspective. With no oversized coats or chunky knits to hide behind, each element of an outfit carries a heavy load. Suddenly, the pressure is on every item to hold its own, both in style and functionality. That’s why I find it invaluable to curate a summer capsule wardrobe built around simple, impactful pieces that work hard individually and play well with others.
Amongst my most relied-upon staples, two pieces continue to stand out: white jeans and black sandals. Making for an outfit combination I don't think I'll ever tire of, this foolproof formula is a pillar of my summer dressing.
White jeans bring a crispness to warm-weather outfits that feels instantly elevated. They’re fresher than classic blue denim, more polished than shorts and surprisingly versatile. Pair them with a linen shirt, a silk cami or even a white tee; white jeans have a way of making everything feel more intentional. But the real magic happens when you anchor them with black sandals.
More polished than summer trainers and more practical than light-coloured footwear, black sandals offer just the right amount of contrast to make an impact when paired with white jeans. They ground the outfit, creating a striking yet wearable look that feels balanced and modern. The combination of clean white and inky black adds subtle dimension.
It’s a formula I come back to across the summer months, dressed up with heeled leather sandals or kept casual with a flat pair. Perhaps best of all, this pairing allows you to do more with less.
Read on to discover the best white jeans and black sandals to shop now.
SHOP WHITE JEANS AND BLACK SANDALS:
Toe-ring sandals are going to be one of summer's most important shoe trends.
These elegant heeled thong sandals have just made their way to the top of my wish list.
These look just as good with black ballet flats.
The small-buckle detailing is very Gen Z.

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
-
The Highly Specific Denim Trend Even I Didn't See Coming
Danielle Haim is a fan.
-
I'm Basically My Sister's Personal Stylist—36 Chic, Summer-Ready Zara Pieces I'm Sending Her Way
Plus, some hot new arrivals.
-
The Expensive-Looking Sandal Trend Fashion Girls Are Wearing With Baggy Jeans and White T-Shirts
A highly chic outfit lies ahead.
-
There Are Over 500 Tops and Jeans at Zara, But Only These 32 Chic Picks Need Your Attention
I'll bet they'll sell out before July's over.
-
Put the Flip-Flops Down—These Classic Flat Sandals Make White Skirts Look Much Prettier
The simplest swap.
-
Addison Rae, Olivia Rodrigo, and I All Cosign These Trending $30 Sandals
They're a dorm bathroom classic.
-
25 Criminally Good Madewell Sale Finds That Fashion People Are Adding to Their Carts
Up to 60% off? Yes, please!
-
27 Incredibly Tempting Summer Picks From Nordstrom and Zara That Scream It Girl
Did I mention everything is under $150?