Midi skirts are trending right now, and if you're looking for styling inspiration, you've come to the right place. After spotting Alexa Chung wearing the elegant skirt trend on Instagram this week, I couldn't help but notice that, instead of reaching for the flip-flops I'm seeing everywhere right now, the model and presenter opted for a decidedly more French-girl-inspired shoe choice: ballet flats.

Whilst flip-flops continue to dominate this season's trends, for those of us navigating city streets, the idea of commuting through London's less-than-pristine pavements in an open-toe shoe isn't always the most appealing. That's where the ever-chic ballet flat comes in.

Working perfectly with the modest length of a midi skirt, ballet flats lend an effortless polish to the outfit, whilst remaining comfortable enough for all-day wear. To keep the look from feeling too prim, Alexa styled her calf-grazing Reformation skirt with a playful green cap, adding a touch of personality and charm. She then layered on a casually buttoned white shirt, bringing an easy, relaxed energy to the outfit that felt distinctly French in spirit.

Inspired by the chicest flat shoe to wear with midi skirts this summer? Keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best midi skirts and ballet flats below.

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Spotted in New York this week, Sarah Pidgeon stepped out in the accessory trend that made her Khaite bootcut jeans look their chicest—and no, I'm not talking about her rumoured beau, Joe Alwyn, who was photographed strolling alongside the actor. While the internet is understandably focused elsewhere, my attention was on the real star of the outfit: her black ballet flats.

In a move that flies in the face of almost every bootcut jeans styling rule I've ever subscribed to, Pidgeon skipped the usual leg-lengthening heels and elongating pointed-toe shoes in favour of a simple ballet flat. With both feet planted firmly on the ground—whatever may or may not be happening in the clouds above—the actor revived a jeans-and-shoe pairing I haven't thought about in years.

Bootcut jeans and ballet flats were once a staple combination throughout the 2000s and early 2010s, before sleeker styling choices edged them out. Now, however, Sarah's endorsement has me wondering whether the nostalgic pairing might be due a return. Styled with a simple white tank top, the look felt effortless and unfussy in the coolest way.

Perhaps not the accessory generating the most headlines this week, but certainly the one that's caught my attention. Read on to shop the black ballet flats and bootcut jeans I'm recommending below.

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I'm with Alexa Chung on this one. But if you'd told me just a year ago that I'd be swapping my black ballet flats for vibrant purple pairs, I certainly wouldn't have believed you. Oh, how tastes change.

Perhaps influenced by the wave of purple that swept across the runways in February, my stance on the divisive shade—which, until recently, had been decidedly negative—has been steadily softening. And after seeing Alexa style the coolest pair of purple ballet flats, I think I can officially count myself a convert.

Using the punchy hue to elevate her chocolate-brown co-ord, Alexa landed on a colour combination I didn't realise was missing from my wardrobe. Rather than reaching for a predictable black shoe, she opted for a glossy satin pair in a vibrant shade of purple. The lustrous finish amplified the rich purple tone, injecting energy and personality into an otherwise understated outfit whilst still feeling polished and refined.

Long dismissed as one of fashion's trickier shades, purple has rarely been a favourite. Whether it's because the colour can feel challenging to style or because of its strong associations with certain brand identities, it's never enjoyed the same universal appeal as classics such as burgundy, navy or chocolate brown.

Lately, however, designers have embraced the shade, and fashion people are beginning to follow suit. So this summer, I'm on Alexa's side. If you're ready to give the unexpected colour trend a chance, keep scrolling to discover and shop the best purple ballet flats below.

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What do you wear in London when temperatures hover around 20°C? Whilst boots now feel a little too heavy, open-toe styles can still seem premature. Fortunately, Alexa Chung just stepped out with the solution—and it's one French women have been relying on for years.

Stepping out in a pair of blue straight-leg jeans and low-heeled ballet pumps, Chung mastered the art of easy city styling dressing. Paired with a light cream jacket and finished with an animal-print bag, her jeans and shoe outfit was perfectly primed for off-duty city days.

Building on the ballet flats trend, the emerging heeled ballet pump trend offers the same elegance with a slightly more elevated finish. The low block heel brings subtle height and sophistication, making casual outfits feel more considered.

Capturing the relaxed refinement that defines French-inspired dressing, this comfortable yet chic shoe trend is set to become a key player in any early-summer wardrobe.

Inspired by Chung's look? Scroll on to discover the best heeled ballet pumps to shop now.

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As someone who is 5'4" and a half (holding onto that half an inch), the struggle is real when it comes to finding trousers and jeans that actually fit. I'm not quite classed as "petite", so I tend not to shop from these sections, but I'm often left with having no other option but to get them tailored. Sure, I can roll up the hems of some of them (and I have a pair of baggy Levi's that look best worn like this), but sometimes I just want jeans that aren't a trip hazard. And this brings me to my love of cropped jeans.

Styles that sit somewhere around the ankle will always have a place in my wardrobe, but the thing is, I do find them slightly trickier to style with different shoes. So, to solve this issue, I went on the lookout for what some of the most stylish women on the internet are wearing with their cropped jeans. The result? Parisians are opting for ballet flats or chic heeled mules, London girls are backing flip-flops and ankle-tie sandals, and in the A-list world, Hailey Bieber proves that the iconic trio of (cropped) jeans, a "nice top" and heels has never—and will never—fail. Here are the summer shoes to wear with your cropped jeans this season, because, yes, summer still calls for denim.

5 Summer Shoes to Wear With Cropped Jeans

1. Flip-Flops

Style Notes: There's something about wearing relaxed flip-flops with jeans (or any trousers, really) that looks so damn good. London girls are taking them away from the beach and to the city, and I love how Lois has added a black leather pair to her white cropped jeans for the perfect monochromatic duo.

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2. Ballet Pumps

Style Notes: Léna is one of the many French women who always wears ankle jeans, and I love how she's given them the Parisian touch with ballet flats. Instead of plain pairs, though, this season I rate animal prints, woven textures and pairs with strap details for a little je ne sais quoi.

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3. Ankle-Tie

Style Notes: Seeing as cropped jeans allow a little flash of the ankle, why not make them interesting? Ankle-tie detail sandals are everywhere right now and these particular jeans will let you show them off to anyone who wants to admire your new sandals.

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4. Strappy Sandals

Style Notes: Hailey Bieber proves once again that jeans and a 'nice top' never fails, especially when worn with heels. The trio is one that has been around for decades, and summer nights out just calls for strappy heeled sandals with cropped jeans.

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5. Mules

Style Notes: If you know me, you'll know I love a good mule. They just always give a polished look to any outfit and I love how Sylvie's suede pointed-toe pair really elevates an otherwise simple jeans and black top look.

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Whilst everyone in L.A. is styling capris and tank tops as though they’re the only pieces worth wearing, over on the East Coast, New York’s chicest dressers are taking a more timeless approach to early summer styling. Cool and polished in that very New York way, Kaia Gerber stepped out this week in the exact outfit formula I keep seeing on the city's chicest dressers.

Keeping things simple, the model started with a pair of slouchy mid-wash jeans. Skipping the capri styles dominating right now—and even the stovepipe cuts that continue to crop up—her relaxed denim gave the look an easy, undone energy that felt perfectly suited to the city.

From there, Kaia sharpened things up with classic black ballet flats, adding a polished touch without making the outfit feel overdone. Then, instead of reaching for a basic white tee, she opted for Cou Cou's black boat-neck Rina Top (£64), complete with an on-trend 3/4-length sleeve. Slightly more elevated than an everyday T-shirt, but just as easy to wear, it gave the whole look a softer, more feminine feel whilst still reading cool and low-key.

Strolling through the city with wired headphones framing her face, Kaia made her way straight onto my summer styling moodbard. If you want in on the look, keep scrolling to shop the best 3/4-length tops, slouchy jeans and ballet flats to recreate it now.

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It’s an unfortunate truth that not every flat shoe works with a skirt. Whilst trainers can feel a little clunky against the feminine silhouette and simple slides often fall flat, I’ve found that skirts look their chicest when paired with an elegant ballet flat.

Offering all the polish of a heel with the comfort of staying firmly grounded, ballet flats are the first shoe trend I think of whenever warm-weather dressing rolls around.

Putting the timeless style to the test, Daisy Edgar-Jones demonstrated just how elegant the pairing can be. Spotted in Cannes, the actor styled sleek black ballerina flats with a flowing skirt, creating one of the chicest daytime looks I’ve seen in some time.

Wearing a coordinating Jil Sander skirt alongside a geometric bra and the Linea bag—all from the brand’s Autumn/Winter 2026 collection—Daisy's look was pretty, feminine and genuinely comfortable.

Shop my edit of the best Daisy-inspired ballet flats below.

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After years of micro-shorts being top of the summer agenda, long shorts started quietly making their presence known last year. From Bermuda shorts to jorts and softly tailored culottes, each of these knee-grazing styles has been spotted in the spring/summer 2026 trend cycle. As the perfect transitional weather solution, their laid-back energy works remarkably well with the lightweight linens and billowing blouses that typically float our capsule wardrobes in summer. So, with the UK days away from a 25-degree spell, what better time to invest in warm-weather pieces than now? But, one question needs to be answered before we do: what shoes do we wear with long shorts in 2026?

Thankfully, fashion people are all too willing to provide us with plenty of inspo. Be it celebrity It girl Amelia Grey styling a pair of calf-skimming Adidas track pants with minimalist glove ballet flats, or Jennifer Lawrence in a three-piece ensemble finished with chic Mary Janes, as it turns out, even the "wrong shoe" works. Think sleek slingback pumps dressed up with lace-trimmed satin shorts, or vibrant tailoring finished with refined leather flip-flops. Almost every shoe works with these transitional heroes, but the seven styles below, in particular, make long shorts look their most stylish.

1. Pointed-Toe Heels

Style Notes: Though I was initially unsure if heels would work, this polished look from Ebony Aroha helped to change my mind. Bloomer shorts are inherently playful, but the classic, structured slingback adds an elegance that pairs well with the pretty lace trims.

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2. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: One of this year's (and every year's) most-worn shoe styles, pretty ballet flats will soften any outfit. Leaning into the elegant nature of summer whites, Nnennae Chem uses her glove flats to ultra-polished effect.

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3. Flip-Flops

Style Notes: Simple yet undeniably effective, the humble flip-flop has quickly become a fashion person’s favourite for one reason: its ease. Whilst the minimalist style allows you to show off your latest pedi, it's also so versatile that there’s yet to be a bottom that doesn’t pair well with a flip-flop. Personally, I’ll be taking cues from Marianne Smyth and styling mine with bright shorts and a fitted tank on warmer days this summer.

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4. Mules

Style Notes: Summer's favourite "ugly" shoe, the chunky mule, is a foolproof choice, especially if you're a pared-back dresser. The quietest way to make a statement with your shoes this season, this slip-on-and-go shoe balances breezy energy with all-day practicality. Plus, they make long jorts and oversized shirts feel far cooler.

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5. Loafers

Style Notes: Pairing well with jeans, dresses and maxi skirts, it's no surprise that loafers work well with long shorts too. With a distinctly preppy polish, pairing long Bermuda shorts with ruched loafers adds an edgier finish. Keeping the rest of her look practical, Millie Holmes layers a fiery red hoodie and denim jacket over a white T-shirt. It's an unexpected outfit, but it works.

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6. Kitten-Heel Sandals

Style Notes: If you live for the summer months, you probably already own at least a few pairs of kitten-heel sandals. More secure than mesh flats or flip-flops, but dressier than a full shoe, the addition of a heel adds a chic edge. Take Marylin’s softly tailored culottes and funnel-neck windbreaker. Sure, the combo would look fine with trainers or ballet flats, but the heel makes it sleeker.

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7. Boots

Style Notes: My personal favourite way to style long shorts has to be with a tall boot. There's something inherently cool about this high/low pairing, and whether you opt for fashion-forward biker boots or a knee-high style, this look isn't afraid to play with proportions. If Sofia Mcoelho’s combo of camo-print shorts and slouchy, suede boots is a touch eclectic for your taste, the pairing works just as well in classic colours and shapes.

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They say everything eventually cycles back into fashion, and in my experience, this is especially true with denim. Last week, I saw Kylie Jenner sporting studded jeans and Sarah Pidgeon in a two-tone style. Even Victoria Beckham has embraced vintage denim, featuring low-rise capri jeans in the Victoria Beckham x Gap collection. Most recently, though, Katie Holmes showcased the look by wearing patch-pocket jeans with ballet flats.

This week in NYC, Holmes was photographed strolling nonchalantly through the streets in a spring denim ensemble. As mentioned, she wore patch-pocket jeans in a faded black wash with a black T-shirt and a brown suede bomber jacket. For her shoes, she chose very 2026 ballet flats—glove flats. This shoe pairing seemed intentional because the design's modernity made the "dated" denim feel cool and fresh.

For those who need a refresher, glove flats are a minimalist style made of soft leather that moulds to the foot. The skin-hugging design offers more coverage than traditional ballet flats and, without the bow adornments, feels less fussy. Some styles feature a V-cut vamp, while others feature a straight cut across. Regardless of the pair, they all have a streamlined finish that adds polish to any outfit, even dated jeans.

Scroll on to discover my edit of the chicest patch-pocket jeans and glove ballet flats to pair with them.

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One of the most distinctive shifts from my winter wardrobe into spring is seen in my shoe collection. Heavy boots define my winter aesthetic, but as soon as the sun comes out, light styles quickly take over. With the weather not quite reliable enough for sandals and loafers having a strong, polished feel, I set about to secure a pair of ballet flats that can keep up with my vast spring wardrobe. After consulting my most fashionable friends, it was clear that one pair in particular are a firm favourite amongst the fashion set. From tailoring to relaxed denim to floaty dresses, the Alohas Rosalind ballet flats are the shoe I'll be relying on this spring.

Take a stroll around London or New York on any given day, and you're likely to spot a myriad of stylish people sporting a pair of Alohas shoes. The brand has cemented itself as the go-to brand for stylish women across the globe, satiating all aesthetics from minimalist to maximalist with ease. For those in the know, the Rosalind ballet flats are instantly recognisable for their rounded toe, sweet bow detail and circular cut-out motif. Once you know the look, you'll soon notice the distinctive pair peeking out under loose linen trousers, paired with broderie anglaise mini dresses and accenting monochromatic tailoring.

The brand's focus is on expertly crafted shoes that prioritise longevity. Classic designs are reinterpreted with contemporary accents through structure and colourways, with high-quality compositions that ensure they go the distance. The Rosalind is a prime example of this timeless ethos, taking on the enduring motifs of the ballet flats but renewed for a modern feeling that has already proven to hold their own despite the moving trends. Comfortable, sleek and ready to be paired with all your spring staples from flowing skirts to light linen trousers, it's easy to see why the fashion crowd is pulling out their Alohas Rosalind ballet flats once again.

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As stovepipe styles and relaxed straight-leg jeans continue to dominate this season, cropped denim hasn’t quite enjoyed its usual spring spotlighting. But while they may be taking a quieter role, they're certainly not forgotten, and when the fashion set are styling them, they're looking chicer than ever.

Down to the perfect shoe pairing, instead of defaulting to predictable white trainers or leaning into the resurgence of loafers, the most stylish dressers are turning to a more refined alternative: ballet flats.

Case in point: Katie Holmes was spotted out this week, giving her cropped jeans a polished update with a pair of jet-black ballet flats. The perfect springtime pairing, the cropped hem offered a subtle flash of skin, working well with the delicacy of the streamlined flat.

Tapping into the enduring appeal of ballet flats, this combination feels especially relevant for 2026. If you’re looking for the chicest way to wear cropped jeans right now, this is it.

Read on to discover and shop the best cropped jeans and ballet flats to invest in this season.

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As spring begins to settle, I’ve started searching for some easy outfit formulas I can carry into the warmer months. And this week, Iris Law has spotlighted a combination I can already picture taking off in London. Swerving the jeans-and-loafers uniform many of us are still reaching for, Iris stepped out in a trending sheer skirt, grounding the look with a pair of dark blue ballet flats.

Whilst knee-length skirts worn with ballet flats can sometimes visually shorten the leg, Iris's light, sheer fabric sidestepped this predicament, instead creating an airy, fluid and playful look, entirely aligned with her relaxed sense of style.

Though she debuted the outfit in L.A., I’d wager it won’t be long before this combination becomes a fixture across London. Come summer, I suspect no beer garden or park picnic will be without at least a handful of sheer skirts styled just so.

Whilst it's true that sheer skirts can feel a little daunting at first, Iris paired hers with a longer-line top, making the gauzy skirt feel far easier to wear. Meanwhile, the ballet flats ensured the lasting comfort needed for city days, while adding a level of polish that trainers simply can’t replicate.

Safe to say, I’ll be welcoming this two-piece into my daily spring rotation. Scroll on to discover and shop the best sheer skirts and ballet flats to try the look this season, too.

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It’s hard to believe that ballet flats were considered dated just a few years ago. However, if you ask any fashion person in 2026, they'll tell you that this comfy flat-shoe style is here to stay. And although my classic black pumps will never go out of style, as a minimalist, I’m always on the lookout for trendy flats that can add interest to my capsule wardrobe. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I have a pared-back aesthetic; however, when it comes to footwear, I’m much more experimental, allowing my shoes to serve as the focal point of my otherwise classic outfits.

Recently, I’ve noticed a number of fresh ballet pump trends that feel elevated and stylish in 2026. From cool mesh flats that are perfect for the upcoming warmer weather to the controversial split-toe styles that will most likely forever divide the fashion world, there are a myriad of chic ballet flat styles to choose from. After browsing through the pages of the coolest dressers I follow on Instagram, I’ve narrowed my focus to the nine key trends that will dominate in 2026.

Keep scrolling to see and shop the nine ballet flats trends that every it girl will be wearing in 2026.

9 Ballet Flat Trends Every It Girl Is Wearing 2026

1. Backless

Style Notes: We've already had many conversations in the Who What Wear UK office about the backless trainers and loafers that have been popping up on our Instagram feeds recently, but it's elegant ballet pumps in this slip-on style that have my eye for spring 2026. They're comfortable, versatile, and will add a touch of polish to my jeans and crinkly linen.

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2. Mesh

Style Notes: Mesh ballet flats have quickly become a favourite amongst chic dressers since fashion house Alaïa’s initial release in 2022. Since then, there have been a myriad of options to choose from on both the high-end and high-street markets. They’re comfy, easy to style, and most importantly, look (and feel!) cool with your jeans, skirts and linen trousers throughout the warm months.

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3. Sporty

Style Notes: When they want a flat shoe that’s slightly more polished than a trainer, cool dressers turn to sporty ballet flats, also known as sneakerinas, to give their trousers, shorts, and dresses some character. With a silhouette that sits right in between the classic ballet and a minimal trainer, sporty ballet pumps remain just as versatile but somehow manage to bring an even cooler edge to an outfit.

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4. Metallic

Style Notes: As a pared-back dresser, I'm sceptical of adding certain colour trends to my wardrobe. But the silver, gold and bronze ballet flats I've been spotting all over social media get an immediate yes from me. The metallic hue feels cool and elevated, but will also pair well with everything from neutrals to bold colours alike.

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5. Split-Toe

Style Notes: With comfort at the forefront of spring 2026, split-toe flats are dominating the it-girl footwear scene this season. This divisive shoe trend might initially feel intimidating, but as a minimalist, take it from me, they're easy to style, look cool without feeling too out-there, and they're a miracle on those days when I'm walking for a long time.

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6. High-Vamp

Style Notes: From t-bar mules to platform sandals, ‘90s shoe trends are having a moment in 2026, and high-vamp pumps are the newest footwear style to have a resurgence in 2026. With a skin-covering silhouette that provides more coverage than a traditional ballet flat, this elegant shoe style has a refined finish that will add polish to every outfit.

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7. Animal-Print

Style Notes: As a writer with minimalist taste, I used to be unconvinced that animal print could look elegant and polished. Now, I can’t seem to get enough of it, having invested in everything from a leopard-print bag to a zebra-print slip skirt. And for 2026, its animal-print ballet pumps are at the forefront of this elegant but elevated trend.

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8. Satin

Style Notes: I'm partial to a kitten heel or a slingback mule now and again, but I'm a flat shoe girl at my core. Luckily for me, fashion people are backing satin ballet flats for spring 2026, and they're the perfect alt to heels for the upcoming event season—pretty, elegant, and polished, but without the discomfort of a heel attached to them.

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9. Red

Style Notes: Practically a neutral in the wardrobes of chic dressers, fiery red is one of the biggest shoe colour trends of 2026. Designer houses, from Ferragamo to Prada, are embracing this fiery shade in the form of heels, sandals and, of course, ballet flats. Me personally? I'm planning to incorporate this bold colour to add an elevated twist to my mostly black and grey wardrobe.

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No matter the season or the occasion, I'm convinced that you often can't get better than a pair of ballet flats. Comfortable, yes, chic? Undoubtedly, but their versatility alone makes them the holy grail of flat shoes, and if, like me, it takes a lot to get you into heels, it's likely you already you already have a pair in your wardrobe. Dressed up with tailoring, kept casual with pretty dresses, there's nothing this style can't do, but if there was one piece that goes hand-in-hand with ballet flats like spring and florals, it's cropped jeans.

Until we're back into the thick of summer and can rely on sandals, ballet pumps and jeans are the foundation of plenty of transitional outfits. And honestly, if it can be assembled in five minutes but looks like it took an hour, it's a winner. Cropped jeans and ballet flats will forever be a fail-proof combination, but for the French in particular, this polished pairing is an everyday uniform for work, weekends and everything in-between.

Scroll through the feed of any fashionable Parisian and you'll spot the same cropped-jeans-and-black-ballet-flats looks, and far from being "boring", it always manages to stay fresh (especially when it's Chanel and cigarette jeans). So if you're wondering what to wear through spring that can be both practical and elegant, keep scrolling to see how Parisians are wearing cropped jeans and ballet flats now, and to shop their looks.

6 Ways Wear Cropped Jeans and Ballet Flats in 2026

1. Waistcoat + Cropped Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Want to look smart and warm-weather appropriate? Lorna's waistcoat and slim jeans is masterclass in how to meet office dress codes and weekend lunch without overheating in too many layers.

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2. Bandeau Top + Cropped Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Sylvie proves it isn't all about skinny jeans and traditional ballet flats by putting her spin on the classics with wide leg jeans and a backless mule. The addition of a dressier top with casual jeans is the perfect way to incorporate high/low styling into a relatively simple look.

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3. Oxford Shirt + Cropped Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: It doesn't get more sophisticated than a crisp, white shirt, and Julie gives hers a dose of laidback cool by tucking it into high-waisted jeans and finishing with a bold pop of colour in the form of a patent red shoe.

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4. Leather Jacket + Cropped Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Sorry bikers, but we're fixated on minimalist bomber jackets right now, and when the weather cools off you're going to need a sleek layer like this in your wardrobe for toughening up the cute combo of cropped jeans and Mary Janes.

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5. Cardigan + Cropped Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Look up "quintessential French style" on Google and I'd be surprised if this exact look didn't surface. Not only does it channel the classic silhouette (loose top, fitted, cropped bottoms and a pretty shoe), but the colour combination of poppy red and acid wash blue also feels vintage in the best possible way.

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6. Car Coat + Cropped Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Switch up the colour of your denim and shoes by looking outside of the usual true blue and black pairing like Pia's choice of dark indigo denim and leopard flats. They will be the focus of the outfit rather than just a base for blouses and knitwear.

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The day after Gwyneth Paltrow made her triumphant return to the Academy Awards by wearing a bridal white naked dress from Giorgio Armani to the 2026 Oscars, the actress and Goop founder proved that a night of glitz and glamour is nothing compared to her casually chic personal style.

A patron saint for minimalist dressing, the 53-year-old shared a carousel of photos leading up to Hollywood’s night of nights, offering a glimpse of her refined and unfussy sense of dressing. Captioning the post “The weekend”, her Instagram dump showed her eating brunch at Los Angeles’s famed diner Max & Helen, getting glammed up for the prestigious event and taking selfies with Sigourney Weaver.

However, it wasn’t her pre-soiree itinerary that piqued my interest the most, but the outfit she chose to do all these luxurious errands in: a Parisian-inspired Breton striped long-sleeved shirt, capri leggings and lace-up ballet flats I predict will be everywhere this spring.

Mingling with the who’s who of Tinseltown might just be another day for Gwyneth, but I adored how she doesn’t let the illusion of fame get in the way of her timeless and elegant dress sense. Whilst you or I might choose something slightly more opulent for a lavish party, the Marty Supreme star showed up wearing an effortlessly sophisticated ensemble you’d typically wear on a Saturday morning run to the farmer’s market or to the office on casual Friday.

Accessible, replicable and understated are core parts of Gwyneth’s brand identity and they’re working over time in this look. Still, the silhouette proves that she’s always one step ahead, with her shoe choice swiftly gaining traction amongst the best dressed. Whilst ghillies—which is the technical name for lace-up flats and are inspired by Celtic dance shoes—had a moment last year after appearing on the runway at Chloé and Simone Rocha, I suspect they’ll only increase in popularity as high-street giants like M&S, Mango and Zara adopt the trend.

And as the weather warms and the hemlines get shorter, I can’t think of a better outfit combination to slip into. Better yet, it also features a subtle fashion reference to the French New Wave cinema, with the quintessentially French look regularly worn by silver screen gamine and beatniks like Audrey Hepburn and Jean Seberg. You can take the girl out of Los Angeles, but you can’t take Los Angeles out of the girl.

Whether you’re seeking to update your spring wardrobe or are simply after a pair of shoes so you can step into the season in style, scroll on to shop the components of Gwyneth Paltrow’s polished outfit, ahead.

Shop Gwyneth Paltrow's Capri Leggings and Lace-Up Ballet Flats

Whenever I’m searching for an expensive-looking high-street find, there’s one place where the rails almost speak to me: H&M. Offering row upon row of opulent colour palettes and sophisticated silhouettes, there has yet to be a time when, in a capsule-wardrobe fashion crisis, H&M hasn’t provided exactly what I’m looking for. In other words, over the decades, it has become my go-to for an affordable fashion hit. From spring jackets that rival investment buys to reliable denim that stands the test of time, I couldn’t think of a category I wouldn’t vouch for. But then I was asked about the footwear.

Call it misplaced bias, but when I think of H&M's shoes, words like "cheap" tend to come to mind. But, if the brand’s other pieces had found a very happy home in my wardrobe, why should the footwear be any different? With spring just around the corner and ballet flats on my mind, I thought there was no better time than the present to put H&M’s shoes to the test. And what I discovered might surprise you (it certainly surprised me).

Now, just a quick bit about me and ballet flats: I don’t do breaking in. To me, any shoe that needs to be "broken in" isn’t worth the investment, and with characteristically large and wide feet (I’m 5'10" and wear a size 8 shoe), I feel like I’m the best person to clear up any preconceived assumptions. Any shoe that squeezed, widened or I just didn't deem worth the spend didn’t make the list, but three specific pairs did. Scroll down to discover the best H&M ballet flats I tried (with pics for proof).

1. Braided Ballet Flats

Style Notes: An offshoot of the mesh ballet flats that were popular the past two summers, H&M’s braided style feels like the chicer older sister. The woven silhouette cocoons the foot whilst keeping your feet comfortably ventilated, and the delicate band holds the shoe in place, so if you’re worried about your feet slipping and sliding, don't be!

Now, the quality was rather surprising. They're extremely lightweight, so I was initially worried these flats would be a touch on the flimsy side, but, remarkably, they aren't. With a reinforced footbed, they are at least as comfy as any ballet flat can be, and better yet, the structure of the shoe didn't stretch, regardless of how many times I slipped my rather large feet in. Honestly, I was pretty surprised, especially considering they're only £23.

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2. Suede Ballet Flats

Style Notes: When I spotted H&M offering suede ballet flats for £38, I knew I had to try them on. With a visible seam, they’re much like the glove flats that fashionable Parisians and every chic celebrity have been spotted in lately. At first glance, there’s nothing truly "special" about this pair; they have a small heel and flat footbed, but that's about it. It's when you put them on that they truly shine.

Fitting looser than the other pairs I tried, they were effortlessly comfortable and truly very chic. The colourway is pictured as a sandy shade but is noticeably darker in person, which wasn’t a bad thing for me, as it leans into those rich mahogany tones we’ve been obsessed with for so long. Slightly more cushioned than the other ballet flats, I could see myself pulling these out again and again, styling them with everything from my tried-and-true stovepipe jeans to a breezy spring skirt.

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3. Mary Jane Ballet Flats

Style Notes: I wouldn’t regard myself as your typical Mary Jane wearer. In fact, I have never owned a pair, and they've just never appealed to me. The narrow base tends to make my wide feet look far larger, which is neither chic nor refined. Yet, whilst I didn’t love the look for me, I can appreciate that these, at their core, are a great pair of Mary Janes.

With a slightly rounded on-trend almond toe, these ballet flats could easily rival a designer pair to the untrained eye. The buckle looks not only stylish but is truly functional, and the jersey interior means the shoes mould to your foot. They are also finished with a well-placed heel, making them better for walking long distances. Did I love the narrow finish? No. (On that note, the H&M site advises sizing up for comfort.) But honestly, I quite liked them with my jeans. I'm unlikely to convert any time soon, but I did walk away with a newfound appreciation for this timeless style.

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If you live in the UK, you’ll have noticed that the first signs of spring are thankfully beginning to creep in. From bluebells pushing up out of the ground to the odd burst of glorious sunshine, the long days of grey are almost behind us. Now, I must admit, it’s very tempting to get over-excited and dive straight into the floral dresses and strappy sandals we packed away at the end of last summer (and believe me, I’m right there with you). But let's be honest: this is British springtime we’re talking about, and the same days that start with bright blue skies can quickly turn freezing and wet by lunch.

A capsule wardrobe can be a puzzle at the best of times, but this particular transition is feeling pretty challenging. Most days, I'm either bundled up on a chilly morning only to be sweating by the afternoon, or regretting going sans jacket as soon as I step out the door. So, this week, I decided enough was enough. Having flicked through the Who What Wear UK spring/summer 2026 trend report (to help me decipher what to invest in for the next seven months), I turned to some of the most stylish people I know for help: the fashionable people of my social media feeds.

Always one step ahead of the curve, they’ve been serving seriously enviable transitional outfit inspo for a few months already. Whether it's timeless stovepipe jeans teamed with a windbreaker instead of a winter puffer jacket, or classic beige trench coats layered over wide-leg trousers in thicker fabrics for warmth, this spring, functional dressing has never been easier or looked better.

And the best part? They’ve reminded me that spring doesn’t have to be complicated. It's not about purchasing a whole new wardrobe, but reimagining the way you wear it. From clever layers to a few statement pieces, it's easier than ever to nail that "come rain or shine" vibe. Intrigued? Keep reading to see the seven outfits I’ll be leaning on for the winter-to-spring transition in 2026.

7 Chic Transitional Outfits to Wear in Spring 2026

1. Cropped Trench + Trousers + Cowboy Boots

Style Notes: Tailored trousers and a beige trench are a timeless pairing that never dates. In 2026, this classic combo is getting a modern facelift. Leaning into a muted colour palette, Amy Lefevre's choice of a cropped trench and hybrid trouser-skirt lends a contemporary edge to her look, especially when finished with a bakerboy hat, oversized sunglasses and the Ferragamo Hug for good measure.

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2. Roll-Neck Jumper + Midi Skirt + Pointed-Toe Heels

Style Notes: Swapping her chunky knits for a lighter version, Sara Walker’s latest look has that Carolyn Bessette Kennedy energy I’m fully intent on channelling this spring. Oozing '90s minimalism with a modern twist, her cream asymmetric wrap skirt, pointed-toe heels and roll neck are impossibly refined, but it's the attention to detail that makes it feel current. From her bug sunnies to the coveted The Row '90s Bag resting on her hip, the whole look is sublime.

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3. Leather Trench + Jeans + Glove Flats

Style Notes: Proving that spring dressing really comes down to some well-placed layers, this leather-trench ensemble jumped to the top of my inspiration list. Keeping her base classic with straight-leg jeans, a white T-shirt and black ballet flats, Marianne Smyth builds from the ground up. Adding visual interest through her structured longline leather trench and blue knitwear, she creates a look which is visually appealing and weather-appropriate.

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4. Cable-Knit Jumper + Satin Trousers + Suede Bag

Style Notes: It's not quite time to pack away your knits just yet, but spring is the perfect excuse to start having a little more fun with how you style them. Take Hannah’s look, for example. She gives a classic white cable-knit jumper a fresh, seasonal spin by pairing it with fluid satin trousers and butter-yellow ruched flats. A small switch, but it allows her tan suede bag to truly shine.

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5. Windbreaker + Jeans + Loafers

Style Notes: Francesca Saffari’s look is easily one of my personal favourites. Tapping into both a dopamine-dressing mood and the funnel-neck windbreaker trend, this standout piece proves that just one well-placed swap can set your outfit right for spring. In a refreshingly simple combo of washed-blue jeans and black ruched loafers, she uses her jacket to add a 2026 feel.

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6. Jeans + Embroidered Blouse + Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: If you needed a reminder of just how good embroidered blouses are, this is your sign. With a romantic, inherently Bohemian feel, Chloe Kath-Butler uses a stone trench in a similar hue and popular Frye boots to spruce up her winter staples. Using thick, dark-wash jeans to keep things cold-weather appropriate, it's definitely a look I’ll be tapping into on a chiller day.

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7. Barn Jacket + Polo Top + Loafers

Style Notes: Classic yet trendy, timeless but with an It-girl edge, Aimee Song’s latest look is a masterclass in transitional dressing. Opting for brown suede barrel-leg trousers, distressed brown loafers, a vibrant yellow polo and a tan barn jacket, she uses complementary shades to create a cohesive yet punchy look.

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Ask anyone what the cardinal tenets of attending London Fashion Week are, and they’ll tell you that wearing flat shoes is a prerequisite. You see, when you’re running from iconic show venues like the Tate Modern along the River Thames to Alexandra Palace deep in the city’s northern suburbs, six-inch slingbacks and heels bound to pinch at your toes just simply wont cut it.

So, it should come as no surprise to see the collections presented over the runways this past weekend were best with flats of all kinds. However, the most prevailing shoe trend, as spotted out by Who What Wear UK’s own editor-in-chief Jane McFarland, was of the fanciful variety. “The standout shows ran the gamut, from feathered flats to decorative brogues to satin sneakerinas!” McFarland mentioned, highlighting the accessories displayed at Erdem, Emilia Wickstead and Simone Rocha as among her favourites exhibited this season.

Of the latter, it was the Irish fashion designer’s collaboration with German sportswear giant Adidas that piqued the most interest. Staged alongside a collection of ethereal dresses and floaty three-stripe streetwear inspired by Celtic mythology, Perry Ogden’s seminal 1999 photobook Pony Kids and the ‘Weird Sisters’ of the Yeats family, Rocha debuted a series of romantic trainers strewn with her signature motifs, including satin bows and decorative sequin embellishments in lieu of technical elements.

However, Rocha wasn’t alone in this fascination with adding mystical elements to the mundane. Elsewhere, Erdem showcased a soft, low-profile flat that featured an explosion of pastel coloured feathers, from butter yellow to capri blue. Toga added structure to the lace-up category, unveiling flats that were both architectural and nostalgic.

Most notably, there was a definitive shift away from studier staples like trainers, boat shoes and loafers—two categories that have reigned supreme over the past few years—highlighting a renewed interest in slip-on styles that add texture, panache and personality to an ensemble, not just practicality. A clear extension of the joy of dressing up doctrine that was set back in September, uncover the key fanciful flats that dominated the autumn/winter 2026 runways of London Fashion Week, ahead.

5 Flat Shoe Trends that Dominated the London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2026

1. Fluffy Feathers

Style Notes: Plume is in bloom, with everyone from Matthieu Blazey at Chanel to Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta fixated on this featherweight accent. Extravagant by nature, this nouveau animal print flocked together at Erdem, with the eponymous designer celebrating his 20th anniversary through flats made for celebration, excess and opulence.

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2. Bejewelled Sneakerinas

Style Notes: Folklore is intrinsic to the creation process for Simone Rocha, with the fables and fantasy of her native Ireland often the starting point for the designer. Here, the award-winning designer put her own spin on the mythology depicted in Jack B. Yeats' 1936 oil painting In Tír na nÓg, in which the painter renders a paradisal realm of youth and beauty through verdant landscapes and a sleeping boy. Speaking to press after the show, Rocha explained that she "wanted to take this mythicism and cut it with realism", resulting in a functional pair of hybrid trainers that were equal parts charming and captivating.

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3. Delicate Satin

Style Notes: Quiet restraint is a signature of Emilia Wickstead's work. However, for the New Zealand-born, London-based demi-couture label, the austerity and androgyny of 'forgotten' female artists like the sapphic Swiss writer and photographer, Annemarie Schwarzenbach, or French sculptor and actress, Fano Messan, allowed this contrast to be more defined. Case in point: The array of satin flats that featured a razor-sharp point and structured shape, balancing both the delicacy of the feminine and the utility of the masculine.

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4. Lace-Up Ghillies

Style Notes: What's the craic, you ask? Just the sheer amount of ghillies proliferating over the London Fashion Week runways. The silhouette and name are derived from a traditional Irish dancing shoe. However, the style is becoming a hotbed for experimentation, with designers toying with the trademark lace-up pattern, like the rigid, derby-style version seen here at Toga.

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5. Structured Brogues

Style Notes: From Fred Astaire to Frank Sinatra, men's shoes from the Golden Age of Hollywood are increasingly becoming a more popular choice for women's wear, as seen in Michael Ryder's Oxford-inspired shoes for his first collection for Celine, to Daniel W. Fletcher's sophomore collection for Mithridate.

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When it comes to '90s minimalism, denim is often treated as non-negotiable, but Kendall Jenner has just proven otherwise. Stepping out in one of the chicest interpretations of the trend I’ve seen all season, without a hint of denim in sight.

Instead of defaulting to the era’s signature stove pipe jeans, Kendall laid the foundations with a far smarter alternative: a sleek pair of black trousers. Channelling the clean lines and pared-back polish of ’90s dressing, her trousers delivered a sharper, more elevated silhouette. In fact, with their streamlined finish and monochrome finish, black trousers may be an even more powerful minimalism staple.

She kept the mood relaxed with a pair of high-vamp burgundy ballet flats, preserving the outfit’s ease without undermining its sophistication. A timeless silhouette that continues to trend season after season, ballet flats remain a foundational investment piece.

Layering added another note of refinement. Kendall opted for a crisp white button-down, worn beneath a black V-neck knit. The choice of a shirt, rather than a simple tee, introduced an extra layer of poise, subtly elevating the ensemble while staying true to its minimalist roots.

Finished with dark sunglasses, the look felt easy yet considered—arguably one of Kendall’s chicest outfits to date. Read on to discover and shop Kendall's '90s-inpired look below.

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There is one sleek shoe trend that I have spotted popping up more and more for 2026 among style influencers, celebrities, and retailers: V-cut flats. These flats are not only comfortable but incredibly chic all at once, plus they guarantee a rich-looking outfit. Needless to say, this trending shoe style is a win on multiple fronts. With that in mind, I curated a list of the best V-cut flats of the moment from stores like Zara, COS, Net-a-Porter, and more.

Ahead, you will find a selection of standout V-cut flats at a variety of price points in colours ranging from black to brown in both leather and suede. I also included four stellar outfit ideas to show you how to wear your favourite pair. Keep scrolling to shop V-cut flats that will make a tremendous impact on your wardrobe this season and beyond.

How to Wear V-Cut Flats

Outfit #1

Outfit #2

Outfit #3

Outfit #4

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When it comes to finding the freshest trends on the high street, Zara is well known among the most stylish dressers as the first port of call. Already, the brand has leaned into the defining trends of 2026 far faster than its other high-street counterparts, and of course, this includes its forever-chic shoe collection. Perfectly balancing on-trend appeal with an equally timeless aesthetic, I always turn to Zara for its boots, flats, and trainers alike.

For 2026 specifically, the overarching shoe trends are focused on pairing form with function, from pared-back Western boots that are as chic as they are timeless, to cool "sneakerinas" that you’ll reach for on those days when comfort is your priority. The spring/summer 2026 designer runways showcased a number of shoe styles that feel just as comfy as they look stylish and intentional, and it should come as no surprise that Zara already has several of these chic footwear trends on its website right now. But the best part? In true Zara fashion, every buy is expensive-looking, easily passing a designer find.

After hours of browsing at the new-in section, I’ve narrowed my attention down to five key shoe trends that Zara is backing for 2026. Keep scrolling to see and shop the trends.

1. Pared-Back Western Boots

Style Notes: I’ve always loved the look of cowboy boots, but in true minimalist fashion, I found them slightly too out-there for my wardrobe. Luckily for me, 2026 has brought pared-back western iterations to the forefront. With just enough of the rancher aesthetic I’ve been craving, but timeless enough to slot easily into my minimal outfits, this boot style strikes the perfect balance for classic dressers like myself.

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2. Backless Flats

Style Notes: With comfort at the forefront of 2026, backless flat shoes are dominating the shoe scene at the moment. We’ve already had many arguments about the backless trainers we’ve spotted here in the Who What Wear UK office, but Zara has taken a much sleeker and more elegant approach to this slip-on style. The kind of mules that you can pair just as easily with your jeans as with your midi skirts.

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3. Sneakerinas

Style Notes: I’ve been backing the “sneakerina” trend for a while now. All the comfort of a trainer, with the slightly more delicate vibe of the ballet flats, they’re perfect for the office and casual days out alike. I must admit, I already own three pairs, but the Zara iterations below are very much tempting me.

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4. Gathered Loafers

Style Notes: Spotted all over TikTok and Instagram, Zara’s gathered loafers have become a fast favourite amongst fashion people. Just as timeless but slightly more elevated than classic smooth loafers, the brand uses subtle ruching and supple leather to create a shoe style that could genuinely pass as designer. I’ve already added the pair below to my basket.

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5. Minimal Trainers

Style Notes: The chunky, overly ostentatious trainers that dominated last year are now being replaced with minimal, more pared-back styles for 2026. Think slim silhouettes, timeless colours, and of course, no logos in sight. I, for one, will find these sleeker sneaker styles much easier to pair with my tailored trousers on those office days.

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It's been a few years now since ballet flats have reclaimed their place as the fashion person's most called-upon shoe, and as such, countless iterations of the silhouette have come and gone. Sneakerinas, Mary Janes, and textured styles have all enjoyed moments in the spotlight. Yet, time and again, I find myself returning to the most classic incarnation of them all: soft leather ballet pumps.

Crafted from supple, flexible leather, these flats have an inherent lightness that makes them particularly wearable, all the while remaining comfortable, refined and chic.

And while December’s party-packed calendar often demands sky-high stilettos, soft leather ballet pumps deliver an understated elegance that I much prefer. They pair easily with jeans and trousers for everyday wear, but are just as effective when styled with evening looks—as Kaia Gerber demonstrated during a night out earlier this week.

Stepping out in a lace corset dress, Kaia sidestepped the obvious stiletto pairing and instead opted for sleek leather ballet pumps. The choice lent her look a relaxed, unfussy polish—very much in keeping with her signature styling—while offering the kind of ease and support towering heels simply can’t compete with.

A friendlier alternative to the vertiginous heels you might be tempted to reach for this party season, soft leather ballet pumps are set to be on heavy rotation in my wardrobe. If you’re ready to make the switch, too, keep scrolling to shop my edit of the very best pairs.

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The halls have been decked, the mulled wine is flowing, and the sun, as repellent and objectionable as it sounds, is setting at 4 PM. This can only mean one thing, which is that we’re well and truly in the throes of party season. To some, the festive period is the most wonderful time of year. To others, the chintzy tinsel and bell-laden music played around now is absolutely repellent. Regardless of where you stand on these quintessential displays of merriment, there’s one thing that I’m sure we can all agree on, and that is the fact that winter is not a time to don heels.

With your calendar filling up with parties aplenty, it can be tempting to use the open bars and cocktail events as an excuse to dip into your arsenal of towering heels and wear all the stilettos, kitten-heels, Mary Janes and mock crock pumps that have been desperately waiting for an outing. But in my opinion, the sleet, snow and heavy rainfall that plagues December is not worth risking these decorative styles and, frankly, there are far more superlative options that look just as ornamental and are far more comfortable. Enter: The best ballet flat party shoes.

Indeed, ballet flats are rarely seen worn with opulent little black dresses or fancy maxis. However, after noticing so many style insiders adopt them this year, I’m here to act in their defence and make a case for wearing your pretty satin styles or bow-adorned numbers.

You see, this all began after noticing the rise of tasteful dressers wearing one style in particular—The Row’s Velvet ballet flats.

There’s truly nothing that the Olsen Twins couldn’t convince me to try, and after seeing this sumptuous style finish many stylish outfits, I knew the biggest party fashion trend would be to hold your heels in favour of these generously relaxed numbers.

The luxury label’s own iteration features smooth velvet and a grosgrain ribbon trim that creates a cinched effect when worn, making them resemble something worn by The Nutcracker’s Clara Stahlbaum. (Talk about serving Sugar Plum Fairy realness.)

In fact, these ornate silhouettes still make as much of a statement compared to their taller counterparts, but ensure you won’t chance rolling your ankle or leaving you in pain after several hours on the dance floor. These shoes are already going viral on social media, and after trawling the designer collections and expensive-looking high-street stores, I’ve uncovered several alternatives that are just as elegant.

From Gucci’s sequin-spangled number to a metallic option from Reformation that’s already earned the approval of It girls like Devon Lee Carlson, uncover the best ballet flat party shoes ahead.

Shop the 13 Best Ballet Flats Party Shoes

While, in my books, December is normally earmarked as the season of stilettos, this time around I'm taking my cues from Sarah Jessica Parker and French women, and slipping into a chicer—and far more comfortable—pair of T-bar flats instead.

Stepping out in New York this week, Sarah Jessica elevated her knee-skimming skirt and warm grey knit with the flat shoe trend I've only spotted in the wardrobe of French women before.

Even without the lift of a heel, T-bar flats retain a natural sophistication. The delicate strap that traces the top of the foot adds poise, delivering a graceful, elongated look without any of the discomfort.

Long beloved by the most stylish French women I know, the T-bar brings a wearable, subtly preppy edge to their everyday uniforms—whether that’s a pleated skirt, straight-leg jeans or a tailored trouser.

And perhaps part of the charm lies in the nostalgia, as the silhouette it recalls the polished school-day shoes many of us once wore.

If, like me, you’re tempted to trade towering heels for a more grounded, but no less elegant, option this season, keep scrolling. Below, I’ve curated the best T-bar flats to wear right now.

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When friends ask me which trends to have on their radar this season, I’ve noticed that lately the first style to roll off my tongue is the pencil skirt. After several years out of our rotations, the sleek, form-fitting silhouette has made a triumphant return to the runway and at once worked its way into the rotations of the chicest celebrities, too.

As I’ve been admiring this resurgence, I’ve also been paying close attention to the shoe pairing that the fashion set is using to complete their looks. Because, let’s be honest, despite its polish, the pencil skirt isn’t always the easiest piece to pair with footwear.

After some dedicated research, I’ve landed on two shoe styles that consistently flatter every kind of pencil skirt. Both tried and tested by some of the chicest dressers around, these are the pairs I’d recommend wearing with your pencil skirts this winter—and well beyond.

1. Ballet Flats

I’ll admit, I once thought that pairing ballet flats with a pencil skirt risked cutting the legs short. But recently, I’ve seen too many effortless, elegant examples to keep believing that.

Take Alexa Chung, for instance. Styling a knee-grazing leather pencil skirt with a graphic T-shirt and classic black leather ballet flats, she made the sharp silhouette feel relaxed yet refined. The flats added an easy, wearable edge to her look without compromising on sophistication.

Kaia Gerber has also leaned into this combination, opting for a minimalist pencil skirt and a pair of low-heeled ballerinas. Poised, elegant and understated, this is a two-piece look you can keep coming back to.

2. Pointed-Toe Heels:

If your goal is to embrace the pencil skirt’s innate elegance, there’s no better partner than a pointed-toe heel. Sleek and sculptural, it elongates the leg and complements the skirt’s tailored shape perfectly.

This season, I’ve spotted countless celebrities leaning into this timeless pairing. From calf-grazing pencil skirts to knee-length iterations, the pointed heel brings a touch of refinement to every version. Elsa Hosk and Hailey Bieber both crafted impossibly chic looks around this classic combination.

With these two shoe styles in rotation, my pencil skirts are about to get much more airtime. Scroll on to discover the chicest ballet flats and pointed-toe heels to style your pencil skirts with this season.

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Though the very nature and name of this viral denim style might indicate that the best shoes to wear with bootcut jeans are the footwear shape featured in its moniker, let me be the first to admit that this is misleading.

That’s not to say that boots aren’t a suitable pairing for bootcut jeans. On the contrary, this fit is so harmonious that the entire denim category is titled after it. However, I feel that this epithet can be considerably deceptive and trick people into believing that boots are the only thing that works with them. Quite the opposite is true, in fact.

The fit-and-flare structure of bootcut jeans already makes them a hero in any well-edited wardrobe. But this slight broadening from the knee to ankle is also what makes them versatile enough to work with an array of shoe styles, going beyond the humble kitten-heel knee-high (Saint Laurent’s slinky Francoise) or square-toe contemporary classic (Khaite’s Nevada).

Christian Dior once said, "You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes," which is an apt adage I’m committing to heart when it comes to bootcut jeans and shoe pairings. You see, the slightly frustrating part about wearing bootcut jeans with the wrong shoe, per se, is that you might end up looking like Marissa Cooper from The O.C.

Whilst Barton’s character is so beloved, with her arsenal of Chanel handbags and coterie of flouncy boho dresses, one wrong step and you could be wearing an ensemble that feels slightly like it’s stuck in 2005. Of course, with the Y2K renaissance still in progress, this isn’t necessarily an issue. Still, certain shoes help bootcut jeans feel more contemporary and chic. (And fitting for 2025.)

Interestingly, bootcut jeans have also emerged from the slumber of early-2000s fashion trends and are swiftly becoming one of the most in-demand silhouettes for the autumn/winter season. No longer slung low on our hips and paired with shearling-lined UGGs, the bootcut jeans of today are modern, polished and a little flirty, so shouldn’t the shoes we wear with them reflect this?

So, whether you’re looking for a little leg lengthening or more modern footwear options, scroll on for the styles that will make your bootcut-jeans outfits feel far fresher this season.

The 6 Best Shoes to Wear With Bootcut Jeans

1. Ankle Boots

Style Notes: Obvious? Yes. Derivative? Never. Putting the boots in bootcut jeans, it would be remiss of me to begin this edit without calling out the shoe style this denim is actually inspired by. Unlike straight-leg or super skinny jeans, bootcuts are designed to be spacious enough to accommodate any length; however, I particularly enjoy wearing them with ankle-grazing styles. There’s almost something tantalising about the way only you know that the end of your shoe just kisses the bottom of your leg while the rest of the world thinks you’re polished and put together enough to wear something that could even extend above your calf.

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2. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Whilst those with a stronger moral backbone might always take the high road, the same can't be said for the sophisticated dressers wearing bootcut jeans. A heel never goes astray at the best of times, but I can’t in good conscience omit all the flat options that look equally good. Ballet flats might seem like an unruly combination, but the mixture of an ultra-prim and feminine shoe with a relaxed and masculine trouser achieves that chic décontracté (or casual chic, for those of us who don’t speak French) that Parisians are internationally revered for.

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3. Pointed-Toe Mules

Style Notes: Though I hate to sound fickle after waxing lyrical about going sans heels in your next bootcut jeans outfit, consider this effortlessly elegant outfit from French muse Sylvie Mus as a testament to the merits a slightly elevated shoe can bring. Timeless for a reason, the pointed toe and backless shape bring a soft, tailored effect that enhances even the most elementary looks.

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4. Heeled Flip-Flops

Style Notes: One to bank for hotter temperatures, but I can’t think of a slinkier look than combining a sensual heeled flip-flop with a bootcut jean. Throw on a white button-down shirt that’s knotted at your belly button for a look that will have you channelling Jane Birkin in her prime. (Because who doesn’t want to feel like they’ve just returned from a sojourn in Saint-Tropez.)

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5. Loafers

Style Notes: It feels counterintuitive to call loafers a trending item, considering they were invented nearly a century ago. In that time, though, it feels like they’ve traded up from the floors of Wall Street and corporate attire to become a cool girl staple endorsed by the likes of Zoë Kravitz and Kendall Jenner. Indeed, there are really no limitations when it comes to what you can team loafers with, and I personally find the pairing of a floor-skimming bootcut jean and a moccasin-esque pair particularly tasteful.

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6. Low-Profile Trainers

Style Notes: Jeans innately lend themselves to a more undone disposition, so why not embrace those qualities by opting for a pair of trainers? When you know you can walk upwards of 10,000 steps comfortably and still look like you’ve just stepped off of Celine's runway, I can’t think of a reason not to try them. The only caveat is to avoid anything too chunky. Sticking to retro styles and low profiles will help bring cleaner lines to a look that can otherwise veer on the boxy side. Dries Van Noten, COS and Zara are doing this shape exceptionally well at the moment, proving to be the true definition of putting your best foot forward…

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At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

I’ve always considered myself something of a wardrobe minimalist. My capsule collection is relentlessly simple: black shoes, white tops, dark knits and plenty of jeans see me through the seasons.

Rarely does a non-neutral shade make it into the mix. Still, whilst a streamlined wardrobe makes getting dressed uncomplicated, it can sometimes leave me feeling uninspired by the familiar pieces I reach for day after day. I'm in a phase like this at the moment, which has led me on a search to add some more interesting items to my collection that still feel like me. Just this week, I found exactly what I was after, courtesy of Gwyneth Paltrow.

Side-stepping every other celebrity's favourite black The Row ballet flats, Gwyneth stepped out in Loewe's Pebble Leather Ballet Flats (£795) in a rich burgundy shade instead—the colour of which added a rich depth to her outfit that made it feel aptly interesting without becoming heavy.

Doubling down on the rich winter hue, Gwyneth paired her glossy flats with burgundy trousers and a relaxed denim shirt. Where The Row's black ballet flats would have faded into the background, the tonal pairing brought subtle interest and a level of sophistication without overwhelming or complicating her look. By opting for Loewe’s sculptural design over the celebrity-loved The Row ballet flats, Gwyneth also tapped into a fresh shoe trend that feels both timeless and forward-looking.

If, like me, you’re tempted to introduce a touch of burgundy into your rotation, scroll on to discover and shop my edit of the best burgundy flats to wear now and for seasons to come.

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It’s not quite boot season, but ballet flats aren't feeling right for right now, either. I’ve been caught in that tricky in-between lately as I stare down my wardrobe each morning. More often than not, I end up slipping into loafers or boat shoes, but patiently, I’ve been waiting for something fresher to bridge the gap.

Tuning into my needs, Katie Holmes stepped out this week in the very shoe trend I didn’t realise I’d been searching for, wearing a pair of black leather flats that, at first glance, could have passed for classic ballerinas. But on closer inspection, in fact featured a higher vamp designer that offered more coverage and structure, while maintaining the smooth finish and minimalist lines that give ballerinas their timeless charm.

Paired with cropped trousers and a striped, collared knit, her shoes were a harmonious pairing, neither overwhelming nor clashing with her look.

A chameleonic flat, these streamlined shoes can slot into any outfit where ballet flats or loafers might have stood before. With jeans, pencil skirts, or voluminous dresses, it promises that same ease of wear as your tried-and-true flats, with an elevated, contemporary edge.

A new shape that feels entirely right for now, I have a feeling we’ll be seeing much more of this trend in the coming months. To get ahead of the curve (and before the best pairs sell out), scroll on for my edit of the chicest high-vamp flats to buy now.

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Over the past week, I've noticed a series of my colleagues wearing seriously chic shoes. Almost every day, I've exclaimed, "Where are they from?" and quickly found that every single person gave me the same answer. As editors, we're often lucky enough to get an early preview of new collections and even test out the styles before release. Now, I can officially share that the highly anticipated Whistles X Essēn collaboration has arrived.

For Winter 2025, high street hero Whistles has teamed up with Essēn the Label, a brand dedicated to beautifully crafted footwear. The pairing is a perfect match, bringing together Whistles' aesthetic of timeless, capsule pieces with a contemporary edge, with Essēn's craftspersonship, which always has longevity in mind. The collection mirrors this with a focus on timeless styles. The six-piece capsule focuses on enduring styles that feature in every great shoe collection, including the ballet flat, the Mary Jane and the classic boot. But each has been given a contemporary twist to bring a dose of modernity to these enduring silhouettes.

Essēn's eye for detail, paired with the elevated colour palette of Whistles' new season collections, works in harmony to form the timeless styles. The ballet flat retains a soft, rounded toe, with updated colourways of suede chocolate and vibrant plum. The Glove boots were one of the first pairs I spotted this week, paired with a simple knit and jeans, the squared-toe and black leather finish instantly took the simple look to all-new heights. One of my colleagues had paired the Mary Janes with tailored trousers, allowing the sharp toe to peek out as an elegant finish to the look, whilst another sported hers with a midi dress, showing off the directional backless design. All together, the edit makes for a seriously premium-looking shoe collection that I predict will sell out fast.

Keep scrolling to shop the Whistles X Essēn Collection and shop more shoes our editors really rate.

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As much as cold weather is an invitation to show off your collection of sophisticated bottoms, there’s really one style that reigns supreme throughout the season: ankle-length trousers.

Indeed, floor-grazing styles will always look polished, but they’re simply not practical when you have to combat countless puddles and dirty pavements. Instead, jeans, leggings and woollen trousers cropped right at the ankle truly come into focus once the temperature drops, but this length can be tricky to style, so what are the chicest shoes to wear with ankle-length trousers?

I’m of the opinion that you can go in two very different directions. The foremost choice would be to lean into the crisp cut of the shape by embracing more refined footwear styles like heeled boots, ballet flats or slingbacks; a trifecta you’d definitely find in any French woman’s wardrobe. Or, the alternative is to reject this notion altogether and go for something relaxed and casual to offset the graceful length of the trousers.

If you need some visual styling inspiration, you're in luck. As autumn continues its slow descent into winter, fabrics are starting to get thicker and hemlines longer, so there are quite a few ankle-length-trouser outfits around that are proving my point. What you’ll notice from these looks (including an effortlessly elegant ensemble from Kendall Jenner featuring a sheer slip skirt from St. Agni layered over graceful trousers) is that they all feature one of just a few styles.

Like how there are specific shoes that complement ankle-length trousers most, there are some that aren’t necessarily the most compatible, simply because of the proportions that they create. And whilst I’m not suggesting that you need to go out and purchase the below pairs, these combinations might spark some ideas about how to style your ankle-length bottoms—or other styles altogether, for that matter—in new and fresh ways.

So, keep scrolling through for the six shoe styles that work best with ankle-length trousers.

The 6 Chicest Shoes to Wear With Ankle-Length Trousers

1. Loafers

Style Notes: Whilst loafers originated in 19th-century Norway, their sleek shape and discerning style have made them a beloved staple for minimalist dressers. Given that ankle-length trousers allow you to show off slightly more of your shoes than most, bonus points if you opt for a suede iteration or a pair that gathers around the edge of the foot.

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2. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: With a lower profile and graceful connotations, ballet flats are a versatile enough shoe to enhance almost anything they’re paired with. However, what I love most about them with ankle-length trousers is the way they subtly subvert each other. Given the delicate nature of the dance-inspired shoe, you’d think that whimsical dresses and floaty skirts would be the perfect match, but the tension between practical bottoms and a dainty shoe is one I’ll always endorse.

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3. Heeled Boots

Style Notes: One of the more functional options is heeled boots, which will particularly appeal to petites, thanks to the way they elongate the leg. Plus, I find that anything with a slight heel intensifies the poise of ankle-length trousers. Personally, I think that a razor-sharp pointed toe is the best shape, but round or almond toes work well, too.

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4. Slingbacks

Style Notes: Ask any Parisienne what they’re wearing with ankle-length trousers, and they’d probably tell you it’s a slingback. A favourite since Coco Chanel introduced them to the mainstream back in 1957, with an elasticated strap that wraps around the heel and shows off a hint of skin, this style is the most elegant and timeless of the bunch.

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5. Trainers

Style Notes: One style that doesn’t adhere to seasonal volatility is trainers. Rain or shine, sneakers can always be relied upon thanks to their all-around resourcefulness. This season in particular, however, opt for pairs with retro accents and slim soles.

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6. Sandals

Style Notes: Another lesson in contrast, especially for those with shorter frames where cropped trousers naturally finish at the ankle, sandals provide a great way of balancing out ankle-length tailored trousers with something light and breezy. Save this one for when the weather warms again.

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At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

The oracle has spoken: skinny jeans are back. Stopping me mid-scroll this morning, Alexa Chung's New York Instagram carousel delivered more than the usual boost of styling inspiration. In fact, it reframed a denim trend I’d long written off as "dated".

Waiting for the subway in style, Chung posed in a semi-sheer, floral-embellished blouse. A notable choice on its own, sure, but what really caught my eye was the pair of dark-wash skinny jeans she wore it with. In her caption, Chung confirmed my double-take. "Bye, NY 👋 ps. And yes skinny jeans felt right again." [SIC] Consider the divisive denim officially back on the agenda.

What made the forgotten jeans feel fresh was her choice of footwear. Instead of leaning into something overly trend-driven, Chung paired her jeans with glossy black patent ballet flats. Comfortable and elegant, the pairing nods to the sleek ’00s silhouette we all remember—yet, with the recent resurgence of ballet flats, the pairing feels surprisingly relevant once more. Even more so, as we edge into the season of layers, when achieving a streamlined shape can be tricky, the skinny-jean-and-ballet-flat formula could be one of the new season's go-tos.

I have to agree with Chung: skinny jeans do feel right again. Scroll on for my edit of the best pairs to shop now, plus the prettiest ballet flats to style them with.

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Jeans and flats in autumn is about as groundbreaking as florals in spring. Yet a quick scroll through the IG accounts of some of my favourite Gen Z content creators alerted me to a niche jeans-and-ballet-flats combination I hadn’t noticed before today: grey jeans and ballet flats.

Now, I, a self-proclaimed jeans connoisseur, do have a pair of grey jeans, and I’ve always found them to be the perfect styling sounding board. Their all-but-neutral colouring offers the same chic elevation as traditional blue and black colourways, yet feels far fresher and a touch cooler. In knowing this, I’m questioning why I never thought to pair them with one of my favourite shoe styles, ballet flats, before.

When it comes to grey jeans and ballet flats, the key really lies in the colouring and silhouette of the denim. After a refined polish? Opt for loose fit, darker-wash jeans and simple black ballet flats. Or, if you’re looking to add something different to a day-to-day look, grey jeans and studded ballet flats look so good with a beige waistcoat.

Don't take my word for it, though; the data speaks for itself. With searches for “grey jeans” up +90% and “ballet flats” up +150% on Google, they’re two of the most in-demand buys right now. So, to make your life a little easier, and to keep you ahead of the trends, I’ve rounded up the best grey jeans and ballet flats below.

From trending H&M jeans to the viral COS ballet flats, you’re sure to find a combo that works for you. Scroll to see my edit.

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