It's the summer of long shorts, and one style of trousers has reappeared too, thanks to how easily it fits in with Bermudas, capris and wide-leg trousers. Those would be culottes, and whilst they were once viewed as a tricky look to pull off, Hailey Bieber and the creative minds of our favourite fashion creators have proven culottes are back and chicer than ever. Whilst pairing tops might be easy for you, selecting what shoes to wear with culottes often feels a bit harder.
The varying lengths of culottes are one reason why choosing the right footwear doesn't feel like second nature. They can range from trousers that hit just below the knee, more closely resembling Bermuda shorts, to longer trousers that skim your calves or ankles. These lines bring proportions into play, which might result in your go-to shoes looking off. I completely understand the hesitation. As someone who's 5'2, I've often shied away from this look. However, I've discovered that aside from finding the right pair for your body, the shoes you pick also matter.
Trainers don't always feel right, or you may find your favourite pair of loafers or wedges don't complete the look in the way you like either. That's why we've collected several inspiring outfits from some of our favourite creators to inspire your own looks and find a pair of shoes that work with culottes and your personal style. From fun, jelly mesh sandals to sleek heels—these shoes all pair well with culottes.
The Best Shoes to Wear With Culottes:
1. Heels
Style Notes: Marilyn's incredibly creative and chic pairing of culottes, heels and a windbreaker completely changed my idea of how you can work culottes into your wardrobe. If you fear that the length of these trousers will make you look shorter or change your usual proportions, heels are always a good shout. Even the shortest bit of height can elongate.
Shop Heels:
A perfectly minimalist silhouette to wear with black, white or beige culottes.
Heeled thong sandals greatly elevate your usual summer flip-fop.
These have a tiny heel so you feel comfortable but elegant.
A rounded almond toe is a unique shape among a world of pointed-toe heels.
2. Statement Flats
Style Notes: Flats cover less of your foot than trainers do, making them a great choice for wearing with culottes, especially those that hover around your ankles. It breaks things up ever so slightly, and you have a lot of choice. In my opinion, a statement flat is exactly the right shoe pairing for culottes, especially those in simple silhouettes or neutral colours. Marina's Tabi flats fit in seamlessly with this outfit but add an unexpected detail, making everything a touch more fun.
Shop Statement Flats:
Margiela's Tabi flats are a polarising toe shape, but they've remained iconic for a reason.
Mesh flats are here to stay, and I love that the original Balla is available in so many pretty shades now.
Keen on animal print? This leopard almond toe pair of flats is so chic.
This woven texture and bright pop of red create the epitome of a great statement flat.
3. Ankle Strap Sandals
Style Notes: Sandals are one such shoe that tends to work with nearly any trouser type. In this case, we're looking at ankle strap sandals. These contribute a lot to any outfit, including one that features culottes. Although they're functional, they're also stylish and structural, punctuating an outfit, especially if your culottes are more voluminous or flowy. Francesca's choice of brown sandals are a nice contrast to her olive green culottes.
Shop Ankle Strap Sandals:
A. Emery sandals have won the hearts of editors and influencers alike, especially the Jalen style.
Chocolate brown shades have become my favourite tones to wear. They're softer than black but still sleek.
Thinner straps on a sandal give your look a completely different aesthetic. This one is ideal for minimalists.
Khaite always delivers. Inspired by architecture and perfectly proportioned, these are a lovely investment.
4. Jelly and Mesh Shoes
Style Notes: Both jelly sandals and mesh shoes have stolen the spotlight on our shoe racks this season. I love Aniyah's combination of both shoes, which feel impeccably summery and look great with culottes. This style of footwear is undeniably different from other materials, but because of the slightly more transparent nature, they're subtle at the same time.
Shop Jelly and Mesh Shoes:
The sprinkle of rhinestones give these mesh flats a little extra flair without being over the top.
A chic and updated take on the jelly sandals of our childhood.
Mesh flats and Mary Janes have been everywhere, but I really enjoy the look of these mesh mules that feel perfect for transitioning between summer and autumn.
5. Mary Jane Shoes
Style Notes: With ankle-skimming culottes, shoes that don't fully cover the instep (or top part) of your foot are key. It gives breathing room and visual space between the fabric of your trousers and the material of your shoes. Mary Janes are great for this, as they're like flats but have a strap or two crossing over top. They're a favourite of French women, infusing your look with a vintage chic aesthetic. Nowadays, Mary Janes come in so many varieties, from gorgeous contrasting pairs like Franny is wearing here, or those with an eye-catching heel.
Shop Mary Janes:
These have a cool athletic look, but it's offset by the elegant satin and pointe shoe-inspired toe.
A chic choice if you want a slight heel.
A mixture of the mesh and Mary Jane trends.
The Western-inspired buckles give these flats such a unique vibe.
