These Are the Best Shoes to Wear With Wide-Leg Trousers, Hands Down
Ever since they launched into the limelight in early 2022, it feels as though wide-leg trousers have continued to dominate the majority of Instagram and street-style looks. It's not surprising, really; This relaxed silhouette is not only exceedingly comfortable, but it also works with an impressive number of wardrobe staples throughout the seasons. Oversized knitwear? You bet. Minimalist camisole top? Très chic.
Annemiek proves wide-leg trousers and trainers are a winning combo.
Not to mention the various shoe options that go with wide-leg trousers. Heels, platforms, slides—you name it, it works. That being said, we think this trend works particularly well with trainers. There's something about the juxtaposition between smart tailored pants and casual sneakers that strikes a pleasing balance. Together, they create a laid-back look that's appropriate for all manner of everyday activities. I'd just as soon wear this combo to run errands as I would for Sunday brunch with friends.
To prove the versatility of this pairing, I've created four very different wide-leg-trouser-and-trainer outfits that I think everyone could get on board with. They all have two things in common, but I think you'll agree that each of these ensembles is unique in its own way. So, even if you were forced to wear wide-leg trousers and trainers every day (let's face it, there are worse fates), you certainly wouldn't get bored fast. Scroll on to see and shop the ready-made outfits.
See My Favourite Trainer & Trouser Outfits:
1. Wide-Leg Trousers + Cardigan + Elevated Accessories + Converse
Style Notes: My default is always to feature black heavily in an outfit, so for this look, I wanted to work with different neutrals to create a more spring-friendly palette. The olive-coloured trousers balanced with the creamy sneakers and cardigan keep things soft yet sunny days appropriate.
Shop the Look:
The delicate ruffled detailing is such a great touch.
I always like to make sure my bag's hardware ties in with my jewellery.
2. Wide-Leg Trousers + White T-Shirt + Knitted Vest + Chunky Trainers
Style Notes: There's no denying that a pair of black wide-leg trousers are endlessly useful, and can be easily styled to go from work to play. For temperamental spring weather, styling yours with a white t-shirt and knitted vest is a brilliant option, and chunky white sneakers keeps the whole thing just casual enough.
Shop the Look:
The 550 continues to be one of the most popular white trainer styles—and for good reason.
3. Wide-Leg Jeans + Blouse + Sunglasses + White Low-Tops
Style Notes: When it comes to jeans, the wide-leg silhouette looks set to continue to dominate in 2024. My advice? Embrace the Seventies vibe of this denim style by pairing it with a lace-trimmed, breezy blouse and cat-eye sunglasses. It's such a cool look.
Shop the Look:
The bag so many of our favourite influencers love.
4. Wide-Leg Trousers + Matching Waistcoat + Handbag + Sleek Trainers
Style Notes: I believe that wide-leg trousers truly shine when they're styled as part of a matching set, and for spring/summer, there's nothing more sleek than pairing them with a tailored waistcoat. Something about the balance of the billowing trousers with the fitted top just looks so good, and a trainer stops it from looking too formal.
Shop the Look:
The gold and silver hardware mix makes this sleek bag extra versatile.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.
A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.
In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.
- Jess Kelham-HohlerFreelance Fashion Editor
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