There are a few trouser and shoe combinations that feel slightly trickier to get right. However, when you do, the payoff is worth the time spent digging through your wardrobe and shoe rack. Case in point? Leather shorts. They're an undeniably interesting option as far as chic shorts outfits go, but not always the easiest when it comes to what shoes to wear with them.
Lately, the shorts we're seeing are usually Bermuda-length and are made of thicker fabrics, and it can be a little harder to find options that work. However, there are a few reliable shoe pairings you can consistently turn to when you're putting together a look with leather shorts.
When you're scanning your shoe collection for the right choice, there are several that should stand out. Heels will quickly elevate the look (literally and figuratively), and both kitten heels and heeled sandals tend to be the choice most of our favourite fashion creators make, but you can also consider slimline trainers, wedges, slingback flats and mules to create sleek outfits.
The type of leather shorts you're wearing (such as patent leather or suede) and the length will also help determine what shoes work best. However, no matter the shorts, the following seven shoe styles will work for nearly all outfits. Scroll on to see the best shoes to wear with leather shorts.
The Chicest Shoes to Wear with Leather Shorts
1. Heeled Sandals
Style Notes: We're starting strong with heeled sandals—a style of shoe that has proven time and again just how good it looks with leather shorts. Simple heels like Ingrid Edvinsen's (pictured above) are perfect if you're trying to elevate your shorts. Pair with a black T-shirt and statement jewellery for a look that's effortless but chic.
Shop Heeled Sandals:
A staple pair for your shoe rack.
This combination of a wedge with a thong strap is so chic.
The tiniest micro heel that works for all occasions.
A thicker heel makes for a more comfortable (but still stylish) step.
2. Kitten Heels
Style Notes: Kitten heels are infinitely versatile. They look great with jeans, skirts, dresses and yes, leather shorts. Like heeled sandals, they give an elevated finish to outfits, but they're perfect for when a closed-toe is necessary. To take your shorts into autumn and winter, copy Nnenna Echem's look (above) and add a pair of ankle socks and a cropped jacket.
Shop Kitten Heels:
Perforated leather is a nice point of difference.
The heel shape makes this classic silhouette feel so much more interesting.
Chocolate brown is a trending shade turned timeless.
An excellent statement pair to wear with black leather shorts.
3. Trainers
Style Notes: Leather shorts can also lean casual with the right pair of shoes. Emili Sindlev's pink trainers (above) are an excellent example of this. They make a blazer and leather-shorts combination look a touch more laid-back and add the perfect dose of colour. If you have longer shorts, flat and thinner-soled trainers are complementary. Shorter lengths work with this type of trainer, but also look good with chunky-soled sneakers.
Shop Trainers:
This pretty pair is great if you're after a fun colour combination.
The sleekest pair of white trainers I've seen in a long time.
Perfect if you've been all over the sneakerina trend.
COS has its minimal leather trainers in so many different colours
4. Slingback Flats
Style Notes: If you love the elegance slingback heels bring to an outfit, but need a little more functionality, slingback flats are your solution. A pointed toe and sleek strap give the same energy, but they bring a slightly better level of comfort. Go monochrome and choose flats in the same colour as your shorts, or make them pop à la Marilyn's chic white-and-black pairing.
Shop Slingback Flats:
Arguably just as a chic as a pair of slingback heels.
A frosty white pair to get the perfect contrast, like Marilyn.
Patent is always a good idea when you want a polished look.
I love this blend of a slingback and ballerina flat.
5. Wedges
Style Notes: Modernised wedges are everywhere, and they're an ideal candidate for pairing with leather shorts. This way, you can show off a unique heel shape and shorts that lean towards "statement piece." I'm inspired by Liv's tonal ensemble, which serves as the perfect transitional weather uniform—featuring suede shorts, brown wedges and a khaki button-down.
Shop Wedges:
A pretty mix of a slingback heel and modern wedge.
Like Liv's look, you can pair brown wedges with suede shorts.
The shape and patent finish of this pair are undeniably eye-catching.
Burgundy is basically a neutral in my book. It works with so many of the other earthy shades in your wardrobe.
6. Mules
Style Notes: For how easy mules are to slip into, they infuse so much chicness into an outfit. They feel more refined thanks to the heel, but aren't as formal as closed-toe pumps. For a sleek aesthetic, take note of Alexis' look, where she paired leather shorts with mules in the same colour and material.
Shop Mules:
White always gives outfits a retro-mod spin.
A pair that's better for autumn and winter.
After a statement pair? These are the ones.
This angular pair has such a unique look that feels both modern and vintage.
7. Loafers
Style Notes: It may come as a surprise, but leather shorts pair excellently with loafers. They sit neatly between casual trainers and elegant heels, making them a great happy medium and somewhat unexpected shoe choice that works so well. Marie-Victoire's addition of ankle socks and athletic tee gives her leather shorts a completely fresh spin.
Shop Loafers:
A pair that will go with everything in your closet.
The chicest pair to wear with suede shorts.
A chunky lug sole gives you height and your outfit more dimension.
A nice choice for leather shorts in a chocolate or neutral shade.