The 10 Best Shoes to Wear with Straight-Leg Jeans

Co-authored by Lana Blanc and Sophia Latorre

Last Updated: October 26, 2021 References

Straight leg jeans are a staple in closets across the globe, and for good reason. These classic denim pants can take you from casual Friday to Sunday brunch and everything in between—it just depends on how you style them! Don’t worry, we’ll help you choose the right shoes for every occasion so your fashion game is always on point.

Method 1

Method 1 of 10:
Sandals

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Everything from flip-flops to gladiator sandals will work here! The comfy, casual feel of straight-leg jeans goes hand-in-hand with summer sandals.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Lana Blanc
Personal & Fashion Stylist
Expert Interview. 13 October 2021.}^{[2]
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Research source} Add your favorite tee and pair of sunglasses for an effortless look.
- Meeting some friends this weekend? A distressed pair of straight-leg jeans, printed top, and simple slides is a great outfit option.
- Want a dressier look? Pick dark-wash, straight-leg denim, a lace top, and slingback sandals. Add some elegant jewelry and a small handbag.
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Method 2

Method 2 of 10:
Ballet Flats

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Opt for ballet flats to create a delicate, feminine look. The slim, simple cut of straight-leg jeans is a great match for a ballet flat.^{[3]
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Research source}Add a gauzy blouse for a sweet look or a fitted tee for a more modern vibe. Finish off your look with some understated jewelry and you’re ready to go.

Method 3

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Slip-On Sneakers

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This low-profile shoe goes well with practically everything. For a fun, street-wear style, put on a graphic tee and distressed pair of straight-leg jeans. Then just slip into your favorite sneakers on your way out the door!^{[4]
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Expert Source

Lana Blanc
Personal & Fashion Stylist
Expert Interview. 13 October 2021.}^{[5]
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- To take this look to the next level, snap a fanny-pack diagonally across your torso.
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Method 4

Method 4 of 10:
High-Tops

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Lace up your high-top sneakers to make your footwear the star of the show. Straight-leg jeans are the perfect pairing for your fave pair of high-tops.^{[6]
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Research source} Cuff them a bit to show off your footwear or let the top of your jeans puddle over your shoe for a more laid-back vibe.
- An oversized tee tucked into your jeans, thin belt, straight-leg jeans, and high-tops is an option that will look cool and casual on anyone.

Method 5

Method 5 of 10:
Mules

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Create an easy, breezy daytime outfit with this option. Mules are close-toed, open-backed shoes that are easy to slide in and out of. They’re the perfect pairing for straight-leg jeans when you’re running errands or attending casual events.^{[7]
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- Light-wash denim, a chunky sweater in a bright color, and a neutral pair of mules would create a gorgeous fall outfit. Add a few rings and a handbag that complements your sweater to complete this look.
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Method 6

Method 6 of 10:
Wedges

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A chunky shoe helps balance out straight-leg jeans. Wedges are cute and comfy, making them a go-to summer shoe. Don’t be afraid to pair them with your denim! A light-wash pair of straight-leg jeans and cork wedges or espadrilles go well together. Add a crop top or your favorite summer tank for a fun and flirty outfit.^{[8]
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Method 7

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Pumps

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High-heels make your legs look a mile long in straight-leg jeans. If you want to dress up your jeans, slip into a pair of pumps.^{[9]
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Research source} Choose a bright or patterned pair and a neutral top for a night on the town, or go with a classic black pump and an eye-catching top.
- For instance, a leopard-printed pair of pumps with straight-leg jeans and a fitted black tank would make a killer outfit for grabbing cocktails with your besties.
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Method 8

Method 8 of 10:
Loafers

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Loafers elevate your look to business casual. If your office dress code allows jeans, loafers might just be your new go-to shoe. They’re more sophisticated than sandals and more comfortable than heels, making them a wonderful work option.^{[10]
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- Add a white blouse and navy blazer for a classic combo.
- Variations on the loafer, including Oxfords and brogues, work well here too!

Method 9

Method 9 of 10:
Ankle Boots

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Ankle boots and straight-leg jeans are a match made in heaven. Short boots fit perfectly under these trusty denim pants while also making your outfit a bit trendier. Headed out for dinner with your SO? Pair straight-leg jeans with ankle boots and a flirty top. Add a few bangle bracelets and a clutch to finish off this outfit. Cuff your jeans just above your boots to show a little skin for a trendy take on this look.^{[11]
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Expert Source

Lana Blanc
Personal & Fashion Stylist
Expert Interview. 13 October 2021.}^{[12]
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- Ankle booties with a side cutout can take your jeans from casual to chic! Add a white button-down shirt and a colorful scarf or handbag to finish your outfit.
- For a more formal feel, choose a black pair of Chelsea boots and let your jeans puddle on top of them.
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Method 10

Method 10 of 10:
Cowboy Boots

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Straight-leg jeans are the go-to option for cowboy boots. They’re roomy enough to slide over the tops of your boots, but not so baggy that the fabric will get in the way. For a classic outfit, throw on a white t-shirt, a pair of straight-leg jeans, and your favorite cowboy boots. Don’t forget to grab your hat on your way out the door!^{[13]
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Community Q&A

Question

What boots look best with straight leg jeans?

Lana Blanc
Personal & Fashion Stylist
Lana Blanc is a Personal and Fashion Stylist and the Founder of The Blanc House, a full-service styling company based in New York, New York. With over ten years of experience in fashion and retail, she specializes in helping others look and feel their best through activities such as editing closets and personal shopping. She has also been featured in multiple publications, including InStyle and Elle. Lana holds a BBA in International Marketing from Pace University and an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Fashion Management from LIM College.

Lana Blanc

Personal & Fashion Stylist

Expert Answer

Just about anything and everything (seriously)! Straight leg jeans usually look fresher and better with chelsea boots, lug sole boots, and slouchy boots, but they work with just about every other style of footwear that you want.