If there's one thing that all Who What Wear editors agree on, it's the timeless appeal of a great pair of jeans. They're a staple in just about everyone's wardrobe, and they can be styled in so many ways depending on season, occasion and general mood.
But their versatility can also be problematic. With an abundance of styling options comes an abundance of decisions to be made. Thankfully, the fashion set has served up plenty of chic and easy-to-replicate denim looks that take the hard work out of getting dressed. And one thing that always catches my eye when sifting through this collection of inspo is the footwear. There are so many different styles of shoes that look best with jeans, whether you pair slim-fit jeans with platforms or baggier jeans with trainers, there’s a jean-and-shoe combo out there for every event and personal style.
Keep scrolling to discover my favourite simple yet stylish denim-and-shoe combos to try next time you don't know what to wear, and shop the footwear you may need to help re-create the look.
Wondering What Shoes to Wear With Jeans? Here's Your Answer...
1. CHUNKY FLAT BOOTS
Style Notes: I love the denim and chunky boots duo. Simple black platforms look great with light-wash denim, while patterned or bold styles work well with indigo and white.
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Black will go with every wash, colour and style of denim.
The brown suede feels so retro.
Burgundy footwear has a special place in my heart and this chunky pair is one of the best.
2. LOAFERS
Style Notes: Aside from boots, some of the best flat shoes to wear with jeans are loafers. They are a classic choice, and I love them paired with socks and a black blazer like Liv has done here.
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Choose a chunky sole to add some edge to your jeans.
The standout investment shoe that remains timeless.
For something a little more contemporary, opt for a white or cream style.
3. SLINGBACKS
Style Notes: The polished heel that's always in style, the slingback is back in full force this season. For the ultimate French look, go for a pointed toe and patent finish—and take a page out of Leia Sfez's book and style with thick socks on cooler days.
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The slightly curved heel and strap detailing give these a distinctive flair.
A classic silhouette in a fun metallic hue.
Red is a knockout colour, and the bows on this pair are darling.
4. HEELED ANKLE BOOTS
Style Notes: Whether you're heading to the office or to dinner, denim with a heeled ankle boot is a fail-safe pairing. Take cues from Jess, and pair black jeans with black boots or match light-wash denim with white.
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A heeled sock boot with Scandinavian flair.
No wardrobe is complete without a great pair of heeled boots. Choose a pointed-toe style for a polished take.
I like that the heels on this pair are slightly flared. It gives it a little chic detail that's different from others.
5. MARY JANES
Style Notes: I've always envied Franny's effortless style, and this outfit cements that. Here, she pairs this season's cult shoe (the Mary Jane) with dark-wash jeans and a white shirt. Simple yet so chic.
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The shiny patent leather upgrades the classic Mary Jane silhouette.
Red always stands out from any shade of denim.
Very into the tiny heel and double buckles on these ones.
6. CLASSIC TRAINERS
Style Notes: Ingrid proves that classic trainers look so cool with dark-denim or washed-out jeans.
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This retro style continues to be a favourite trainer look that'll no doubt become a classic.
High-tops like Converse look great with straight-leg jeans in all washes.
Vejas are a staple amongst the fashion set thanks to their sustainable credentials and sleek look.
7. UGGS
Style Notes: Have you invested in a pair of UGGS yet? Consider this your sign. Possibly the most popular shoe of last year, it's an effortlessly chic and cosy option. In winter, just add a pair of snug socks or opt for a shearling-lined style.
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Pair with grey denim and a light knit and you're set.
The classic tan shade would work great with white or light blue denim.
The black mini pair would look great with indigo or black denim.
8. ANIMAL-PRINT BOOTS
Style Notes: Whether you opt for snake, leopard or cowprint, animal-print boots are seriously on trend at the moment. Pairing well with any wash or colour of denim, the styling possibilities for these boots are endless.
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Snakeskin is just as versatile as any neutral.
Wear under a wide-leg jean or over a skinny pair.
How cool are these?
9. COURT SHOES
Style Notes: I love how Joanne has paired her pointed-toe heels with a flare. Keep the rest of your look simple with other wardrobe essentials like a striped tee and blazer. While pointed-toe heels don't always look the best with skinny jeans, they're ideal for wider-leg, barrel-shaped and flared jeans.
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The higher topline on this shoe makes them feel so retro.
LK Bennett has long been a go-to for court shoes, for good reason.
The heel shape and mesh shape makes these interesting.
10. BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: This is a winning combo. Tuck a basic T into straight-cut jeans and throw a cool leather jacket over top.
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The toe cap gives this basic flat more texture.
The perfect dose of animal print.
If you don't have mesh flats yet, now's the time.
11. STRAPPY HEELS
Style Notes: Who can resist the appeal of a Canadian tuxedo? Make denim work for the evening by adding strappy heels.
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Block heels add a level of comfort.
A sleek take on heeled sandals.
A minimalist's dream heel.
12. COWBOY BOOTS
Style Notes: The cowboy (or cowgirl) boot and jeans have been a match made in heaven since the 1800s, when the two were created. You can tuck your skinny or slim-cut jeans into your boots to really show off the pattern and details. Or, you can learn from Grace's cool outfit and let your jeans roll down over them — the pointed toes and western heels always look fun peeking out.
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Black goes with everything.
I'm really into the shin-height cut of these boots.
The cream suede is such a pretty hue, and I like that the pattern is subtly embroidered.
13. COLOURFUL TRAINERS
Style Notes: Whilst you might always be in favour of white trainers, there's something about a pair of colourful sneakers that instantly make an outfit with jeans pop. Take a page from trendsetters' books and buy a pair of Adidas Sambas or Gazelles (there are so many colours to choose from).
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Two fan-favourite brands came together to create these cloud-like trainers.
I have a feeling army green is going to have its moment again soon.
The bright purple and orange feels so '80s.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
