Denim shorts have always felt like one of the trickier pieces in my wardrobe.
Not because I can’t find a top to pair with them; in fact, they look great with almost every top in my collection. It's when it comes to shoes that I seem to trip up. In summer, sandals are the easy answer, but with autumn on the horizon, I start feeling open-toe fatigue. There’s something about the shift in season that makes me crave a sleeker, more polished alternative. That’s why Kate Moss’s recent outfit—denim shorts paired with classic black ballet flats—made such an impression on me.
It’s hard to make denim shorts feel elegant, but ballet flats have a knack for imbuing them with a level of poise. Between the unfussy design, closed-toe finish and flat-footed functionality, they ground the look, giving it an understated sophistication that open-toe sandals or even heels simply can’t replicate. Plus, their inherent French roots will always make them (and whatever you wear them with) feel more polished.
Moss styled hers with Reformation's Viola Linen Top (£168), weaving in a pretty energy that elevated the shorts even further. All together, her outfit felt relaxed, refined and incredibly wearable, making the case for denim shorts as a wardrobe hero year after year.
Scroll on to shop my edit of the best black ballet flats to wear with denim shorts.
Shop Black Ballet Flats:
Whilst I love these in the glossy black, they also come in a pretty shade of light blue.
Style these with fresh white socks to give your look a preppy edge.
Shop these whilst they're on sale.
I always come back to Aeyde for its elegant footwear.
Every great wardrobe starts with a versatile pair of ballerinas, and this pair from The Row has been on my mind a lot.
These also come in three other shades.
With a flexible sole for extra comfort.
The Mary Jane trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.
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