8 Jeans-and-Shoe Pairings That Go Together Every Time

Lizzy wears Maison Margiela's Tabi ballerina flats with classic blue jeans.

We all know how versatile a pair of jeans can be. After all, what other garment can take you from date night to the weekend with the same stylish flair and universal appeal? However, their ease is often dependent on another item: footwear.

Shoes have the power to instantly change the mood of your jeans. For example, for a formal occasion, a pair of bejewelled heels will elevate your classic blues to glamorous new heights. Similarly, ballet flats will add polish to ripped or frayed-hem jeans—simply add a tailored blazer and a button-down, and you've got yourself a chic ensemble.

So which shoes would I recommend wearing with jeans? I'm glad you asked. I've whittled down the shoes to wear with jeans that I truly believe work for just about every occasion you can think of. Keep scrolling to see eight jeans-and-shoe combinations validated by the style elite, and then shop the pieces you need to re-create their impressive looks.

1. STRAPPY SANDALS

Style Notes: If you've already invested in a pair of thin-strap sandals, rest assured that they look excellent with jeans. Their simple silhouette makes for a premium footwear choice and will help make even bleached-blue or faded-black denim look luxe.

Shop the look:

2. BALLET FLATS

Style Notes: Ballet flats are firmly back on our fashion radar. Typically low cut on the foot, they work with just about any jeans length, though we think they look really chic when worn with white ankle-grazing jeans.

Shop the look:

3. TENNIS SHOES

Style Notes: Where there are jeans, trainers can't be too far off. While all sneaker styles will do the off-duty trick, take the minimalist approach with a pair of sleek tennis shoes. 

Shop the look:

4. CHUNKY FLIP-FLOPS

Style Notes: When it comes to relaxed-fit jeans, take inspiration from cool Cali girls and wear them with a pair of flip-flops. A cardigan and bra top will finish the look. 

Shop the look:

5. ESPADRILLE WEDGES

Style Notes: Espadrilles look just as good with jeans as they do with printed midi skirts. Straight-leg styles work particularly well, as they balance out the chunky wedge heels. 

Shop the look:

6. LOAFERS

Style Notes: Few combinations feel more 2023 than straight-leg jeans and classic leather loafers. Just add a trench coat and a sleek shoulder bag to complete the casual but polished aesthetic. 

Shop the look:

7. HEELED MULES

Style Notes: Want that sandal look without having to book in for a pedicure? Then it's closed-toe mules to the rescue. Heeled pairs will help balance out wide-leg jeans, but they look just as sleek with straight-leg denim, too. 

Shop the look:

8. SLINGBACKS

Style Notes: Another shoe that's taking over in 2023, slingbacks—particularly those with block heels—will elevate any jeans ensemble. As will an oversized blazer. 

Shop the look:

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Next Up: 6 Shoes, Tops and Jackets Fashion People Always Wear With These '90s Jeans