I practically live in jeans. I’m not kidding…I wear them almost every single day! Skinny jeans, straight jeans, flare jeans, kick flare jeans, you name it! I love them all! I often get the question, “What shoes should I wear with my jeans?” Well…I’m here to share the top six pairs of shoes in my closet that I routinely pull out to wear with jeans.
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#1 | Flats
Your flat shoes should be very comfortable! You have lots of options here. Sandals, loafers, mules, slides, pointed toe flats, whatever you want! If you work in an office where you get to wear jeans, try some chic ballet flats like I’m wearing above. For more casual days, try some comfy and fun sandals. One of the most common concerns when wearing flats is… how to wear them without looking FRUMPY. I share a bunch of tips on how to look taller in flats in this video.
These gorgeous Fendi logo flats which I shared in this video are quite versatile due to the unique brown and black color combination. It’s one of the those combos that we always hesitate to wear. But, when you have an anchor piece like these flats that mixes the two colors for you…it’s a cinch! These flats will pair perfectly with any style jeans…skinny jeans, flare jeans, cropped jeans, etc. They would also look beautiful with skirts, pants, ankle trousers, etc.
Above, I styled them with a pair of classic dark wash skinny jeans and a pretty, black puff sleeve Alice + Olivia sweater. This sweater has a removable white collar that I love! Fun Fact: TODAY show host, Savannah Guthrie wore this sweater on election night.
#2 | Knee High Boots
Knee-high boots are a must-have if you love skinny jeans! The pair that I’m wearing above is AMAZING and SO sexy!!! I love how they are not super fitted around your calves…so they slide right over skinny jeans. Knee-high boots should come up below your kneecap. Material and color are up to you based on the rest of your wardrobe. If you wear more brown, get a gorgeous tan pair. If you wear a lot of black and gray, go with black! But, when in doubt, choose either black or brown. These gorgeous croc-embossed knee-high boots are by Schutz. They are surprisingly very comfortable for heels. I love them so much I also have them in the python print. These are my go-to date night boots. (in her mind says, “Date Night. What’s that?” ;)
Another great option with skinny jeans is over the knee boots. I shared how to wear OTK boots if you’re tall or petite in this post.
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#3 | Sneakers
I wear sneakers with my jeans a TON. And there are so many sneaker options out there now! I know these can be tricky to style. I did a video recently sharing some styling tips to help you wear sneakers with style at any age here. I also did a full review of whether I think these Golden Goose sneakers are worth it. But I’m sure you can guess my opinion based on the photos above! I have a few pairs of Golden Goose sneakers now and love them! The Hi Star platform sneakers are great if you want to add a little height but my true favorites are the popular Super-Star Low Top sneakers. I know these are pricey so I linked more sneaker favorites below…
Some other options that are popular are white sneakers or slide/slip-on sneakers. If you live in a colder climate, you might want some cool shearling-lined sneakers for winter. Or, if you’re fashion-forward and like to take risks, try some cool dad sneakers. If you like the look of the Golden Goose sneakers but not the price tag, consider the Veja sneakers. They take a few weeks to break-in but are very cute!
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#4 | Wedges
Wedge sandals are definitely a must-have going into spring and summer. Wedges are perfect for events or special occasions when you want to add height, but still feel comfortable and functional. I am choosing to think optimistically about spring and our ability to socialize and travel. I’ve had these See By Chloe wedges for years and LOVE them! This brand’s wedges are really popular and come in multiple styles. These have a 4.25” heel but since they’re espadrilles and platform style, they’re manageable to walk in. (Seriously. Not kidding). I’m usually not a fan of buckles because I like to easily slide shoes on and off. But this buckle is so simple I don’t mind it. I also love that they have the leather ankle strap and white canvas strap across the toes! The spongey white sole is key for comfort.
#5 | Slide On Sandals
Especially for spring and summer, slide on sandals are a must-have! I prefer my sandals to have a heel for added height. But you can also go with a flat option! These Valentino sandals are so pretty and comfortable. They have the classic Valentino studs and a manageable 2.5″ heel. They are a simple shoe to throw on and elevate any summer outfit. I’ve worn them with everything from jeans, to dresses, even shorts! These will be heavy hitters in your wardrobe which may help you justify the price.
Another pair of flat sandals that I’m really enjoying are these stylish sandals by Steve Madden. They are ridiculously comfy and chic.
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#6 | Pumps
I wear pumps with my jeans all the time because I always feel sexier!! Sometimes you just have to dial up the sexy, ya know? Remind yourself that you still got it!! 😉 You can wear pumps with pretty much any denim style. And, of course, they look amazing with dresses and skirts too. My favorites designer pair of pumps are the Jimmy Choo Romy Pumps. A more affordable option that is especially great for narrow feet, the Sam Edelman Hazel Pumps. If you can’t wear pumps, get a pair of really sleek flats like the ones I featured above instead.
Bonus | Ankle Booties
You can wear your ankle boots with pretty much any jean style. Tuck them into skinny jeans, wear a statement bootie with some kick flare jeans, or wear them under straight jeans. Booties are SO versatile with jeans. I have multiple pairs in multiple styles and colors. For maximum versatility, I recommend getting a pair of black or brown booties. The brown suede pair that I’m wearing above is a great neutral everyday color. You can find some of my favorite brown booties in this post.
I totally get that styling your jeans with ankle booties can be challenging and that’s why I created this comprehensive guide to help you.
Which pair of shoes is your favorite? The flats? The booties?? Are we missing anything? Please share in the comments!
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I read a recent influencer blog that stated wedge heels are OUT. I am happy to see you sporting a lovely pair of wedges so I’m guessing it is a trend that is personal and wear wedges if we enjoy wearing them. Is there a certain kind of wedge that is not recommended….such as wedge boots or booties?
I’m a big fan of the wedge…They offer height while still being super comfortable. I’d opt for a wedge sandal over a wedge dress shoe or bootie. A cute pair of wedges with a summer dress is a great summer look. ~Erin xo
Hi Erin, Can you please highlight some flats or sandals which run narrow and are not frumpy. I have a narrow foot and cannot seem to find any chic looking sandals or flats. Thank you!
Thanks for your feedback, Colleen! Great idea! ~Erin xo
Hello ERin, I love all of the shoes you love all of the Jean’s. Jackets I REALLY love every single one of the pieces yo share with US. And I watch all of your videos on you tube your style is impecable and I love you for SHARING SO many tips to help us look better but also fell better about our selves god bless you and your family..