I remember spotting the sarouel trouser trend early last year when some of my favourite gorpcore influencers started wearing the Snow Peak gather pants. Voluminous and full of movement, they brought a whole new silhouette to some of fashion's favourite pieces, from Salomon trainers to technical jackets.
It wasn't long before this trouser shape was picked up by other style tribes, and as of today they are one of the most popular trousers for summer, competing with barrel-legs and bloomers for top place.
When a new trouser silhouette comes around, one of the first problems we face is figuring out what shoes work best. I jumped on this trend as soon as I could but found myself sticking to trainers as that had always been my styling reference point. With some trial and error as well as sarouel trousers in a variety of different fabrics and colourways, I was able to come up with some fool-proof combinations that will see me and my favourite trousers through the summer season.
So whether you're new to the sarouel trouser trend or are looking to step out of your comfort zone, below I have compiled an edit of the best shoes to pair with them. Read on to find out more.
1. Thong Sandals
Style Notes: I don't think there is a single item of clothing this season's flip-flop trend doesn't work with, and sarouel trousers are no exception. The contrast of exaggerated volume and pared-back, barely-there minimalism works perfectly together and allows for you to really play with colour combinations and texture. Pair linen with leather, or jersey with jelly - there's no wrong answer here.
Shop Thong Sandals:
A team up with the jelly shoe trend.
If you own one pair of sandals this season, make it a pair of black flip-flops.
Can always trust Alaïa to do things differently.
Two-tone flip flops are everywhere.
An office-friendly option.
2. Ballet Sneakers
Style Notes: If you're after a feminine athleisure feel then look to ballet sneakers. They tap into that original gorpcore vibe without the chunkyness of a trainer, adding a streamlined element that shows off the volume of the trousers.
Shop Sneakerinas:
Sleek and minimal.
Also available in baby blue.
Perfect for summer.
For some added texture.
A statement pair.
3. Strappy Heels
Style Notes: Dress up your sarouel trousers with a pair of strappy heeled sandals. The key is to keep things minimal as the star of the show is the trouser's silhouette, so a sleek pair with dainty straps is where it's at.
Shop Strappy Heels:
Choose a tapered heel for extra comfort.
A great occasionwear pair.
Add a pop of red.
A 90s silhouette.
Iconic.
4. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Another go-with-everything pair that really enhance everything that we love about sarouel trousers. Because the trouser silhouette is so unique, you can go bold with your ballet flats. From metallics to embellishment, square-toes to lace-up details, the more statement the better.
Shop Ballet Flats:
Made from the softest leather.
A worthy investment.
Butter yellow is here to stay.
A fashion editor favourite.
One for the minimalists.
5. Heeled Pumps
Style Notes: Classic heels are making a comeback, and what better way to work them into your 2026 wardrobe than with the trousers of the season. Keep the shape sleek but look for unique textures such as mesh or satin and statement heel shapes.
Shop Heeled Pumps:
Embellished accessories is a huge trend this season.
A twist on a classic.
The block heel is back!
Balletcore-inspired.
Still obsessed with the mesh shoe trend.