You Just Can’t Beat Jeans and Sandals—6 Simple Outfits That Prove This Combination Always Works

There are certain outfit combinations that always seem to come back into rotation the minute the seasons change. For me—and, judging by both recent runway shows and my saved folder on Instagram, I'm far from alone—it's all about jeans and sandals outfits. The pairing is low-effort but feels put-together in that perfectly off-duty way, and, crucially, it actually works with the unpredictable British weather. A sunny lunch date? Jeans and sandals. Heading into town? Jeans and sandals. Running to the corner shop, but want to look like you didn't just roll out of bed? You guessed it, jeans and sandals.

Both jeans and sandals hold their own as capsule wardrobe heroes. Jeans are obviously a year-round staple, and right now we're seeing so many iterations that feel genuinely fresh—baggy cuts with just enough structure, white jeans that don't scream 'holiday mode', and even the humble jort, which is set to be as big this summer as it was last.

Meanwhile, sandals have moved on from being just a humble beach shoe. The Row's toe-post styles kicked things off, and now fashion types are pairing everything from minimalist flip-flops to chunky fisherman pairs with their denim. It's not just a styling trick—it's a full-on fashion move.

People have long been joking on TikTok joking that they"hope everyone knows I'm wearing flip-flops in a Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy way," and honestly, that's exactly the energy this look is giving. A quiet confidence, like you don't need to try too hard because your outfit already does what it needs to.

The beauty of jeans and sandals outfits is that they're totally adaptable. Depending on the wash, cut and styling of the jeans, or the type of sandal you choose, you can go from polished to relaxed without needing to change much at all.

The spring and summer 2025 runways only reinforced the point. At Proenza Schouler, slouchy denim was teamed with sculptural sandals. At Loewe, fisherman sandals grounded oversized silhouettes and The Row doubled down on the minimalist mood that's been running through the brand for seasons now.

But beyond the runway, brands like Agolde, Arket and COS are delivering denim and sandals that hit that sweet spot between fashion-forward and wearable. And if you want proof this look's having a moment IRL? I clocked more than a few editors at Copenhagen Fashion Week wearing black jeans with strappy flats and oversized blazers—a look I plan to copy immediately.

Below, I've pulled together six jeans and sandals outfits that I genuinely think are worth bookmarking. From cuffed styles with barely-there thongs to the return of khaki jeans, each look is runway—and real-life—approved. Plus, I've included my pick of the pieces to shop if you're looking to re-create the outfits yourself. Enjoy!

6 Chic Jeans and Sandal Outfits

1. Baggy Jeans + Flip-Flops

Style Notes: The pairing of a relaxed, oversized denim with minimalist flip-flops captures the effortlessness—almost nonchalance—of the cool-girl aesthetic. This combination channels the understated elegance seen on the runways, and the key to conquering it is to think sleek with what you wear it with. An oversized bag, a plain t-shirt or long sleeve, and, if you want jewellery, perhaps a rope necklace and classic plain hoops.

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2. Straight Leg Jeans + Knotted Sandals

Style Notes: White button-downs and jeans are such an underrated combination. The addition of a knotted sandal leans into the simplicity of the silhouette, however provides a small focal point that helps draw an eye to your look. Talk about head-turning without trying hard.

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3. Black Jeans + Dad Sandals

Style Notes: Monochromatic ensembles exude a sleek and cohesive sensibility. Pairing black jeans with matching sandals creates a streamlined silhouette, reminiscent of the minimalist approaches seen in collections at The Row.

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4. Cuffed Jeans + Rope Sandals

Style Notes: An ideal transeasonal formula, the combination of a durable albeit sophisticated windbreaker, cuffed jeans and rope sandals strikes a balance between utility and sophistication. This look is suited for days trotting through town, with the addition of a sturdy leather bucket adding to the air of a chic, unhurried and unfussy errands run.

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5. Khaki Jeans and Thong Sandals

Style Notes: Once upon a time, jean styles were limited to a rare few; indigo, baby blue and stonewash, to name some of the most popular and enduring styles. Now, with all the recent appetite for jeans, new colours like khaki have come to the forefront. Worn with elevated thong sandals, the result is a look that feels novel yet smart.

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6. High-Waisted Jeans + Sliders

Style Notes: The uncomplicated pairing of relaxed jeans with summery sandals is indisputably Parisian. The combination is somewhat unexpected, but still nevertheless sensual thanks to the slight flash of skin that comes out of the blue. It's these qualities that will appeal to any French Girl—or those who covet their style. Dial this trait up slightly by finishing the outfit with a pair of Hermès Oran sandals.

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