French Women and I Agree, Cropped Trousers Are Chic—9 Shoes We Wear With Them

Yes, full-length, floor-skimming trousers may be everywhere you look right now, but I'm here to play devil's advocate and argue in defence of the timelessly-chic cropped trouser. The cool-girl trend of the moment might be to have puddles of fabric around your ballet flats or Adidas sambas, but as an editor who tries to focus not on the passing trends right in front of me, and more on which wardrobe items are genuinely flattering and will stand the test of time, I still have a soft spot for showing a little ankle. What can I say? 

I know I'm not alone in this opinion, and so I recently took to Instagram to scroll through some of the most stylish accounts I know to find proof that cropped trousers are not only flattering, but extremely versatile too (way more versatile than a tricky dragging hem!) Adding to my conviction, most of the women I found sporting cropped trousers recently were French—a demographic well-versed in eschewing "of the moment" trends in favour of forever buys

The fact that I'm petite at 5'2" and find it extremely difficult to find full-length trousers that fit me, let alone look good, may or may not have something to do with my stance (where my fellow short girls at?!). But I stand by my opinion that cropped trousers are universally flattering on everyone, and much easier to pair with shoes, especially for autumn. That little ankle (or sock) flash makes ballet flats, loafers, trainers, heels and even boots just look, well, better.

Keep scrolling and you'll find examples for nine of the best shoes to wear with cropped trousers—all undeniable arguments for why you should still be proudly wearing your cropped trousers. Whether that's smarter tailored styles to the office or your beloved cropped straight leg jeans—enjoy!

1. Ballet Flats

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

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2. Loafers

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(Image credit: @cocobeautea)

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3. Mules

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

4. Chunky Ankle Books

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(Image credit: @madeleinebuggekarlsen)

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5. Slingbacks

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

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6. Trainers

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

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7. Pointed Toe

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

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8. Heeled Ankle Boots

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(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

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9. Sandals

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(Image credit: @monikh)

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Next Up, The Autumn/Winter 2023 Fashion Trends That Really Matter

Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.

Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.