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 myriad 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. No matter what top you’ve paired with your jeans, shoes can instantly change a look, taking you from day to night in a matter of seconds. Whether you’re wearing 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.
Style Notes: Low-top trainers like Chiara’s pair look so cool with relaxed jeans while classics like Converse high-tops suit straight-leg styles.
Vejas are a staple amongst the fashion set thanks to their sustainable credentials and sleek look.
High-tops like Converse look great with straight-leg jeans in all washes.
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.
These are so classic.
A red heel with blue jeans always looks Parisian.
Style Notes: Have you invested in a pair of Birkenstock Bostons? Consider this your sign. Possibly the most popular shoe of the year, it’s an effortlessly chic option.
You can also wear these with trousers, skirts and dresses.
The classic style comes in multiple shades of suede, but I love the stone pair for its versatility.
Style Notes: This is a winning combo. Sandwich a slightly cropped jean in a pale wash between monochrome separates.
Satin presents a chic and classic finish to this shoe style.
Arket has a great footwear offering this year.
Style Notes: Who can resist the appeal of jeans and a nice top? Make denim work for the evening by adding barely-there strappy heels and your favourite top.
For comfort and style, head to H&M. These simple cream sandals will help elevate any denim look.
Make denim evening-appropriate by adding statement heels like these.
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.
If you’re looking to invest in the Mary Jane trend, it doesn’t get much better than The Row’s pair.
Alexa Chung is a fan of this shoe brand.
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.
No wardrobe is complete without a great pair of heeled boots. Choose a stiletto for a polished take.
The boots all influencers and editors love.
Style Notes: Loafers are a classic choice. I love them paired with socks and a knit like Emmanuelle has done here.
Choose a chunky sole to add some edge to your jeans.
Or opt for white, which will work just as well in winter as it will in summer.
Style Notes: You can’t go wrong with simple leather sandals and jeans as we head into the new season.
We’re huge fans of Dragon Diffusion bags, so it would make sense that we also love the brand’s sandal offering.
These will go with so many other summer wardrobe staples.
Style Notes: I love the denim and platform duo. Simple black platforms look great with light-wash denim, while patterned or metallic styles work well with indigo and white.
Platform sandals have a special place in my heart and Loeffler Randall styles are some of the best.
Black platforms will go with every wash, colour and style of denim.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
