The Best Shoes to Wear With Every Single Denim Style (Yes, Even Skinny Jeans)

If your jeans drawer is as overstuffed as mine is, it's probably because you have so many different styles and silhouettes. Every time I think I have all of them covered in my wardrobe, I stumble upon a new shape, wash, or cut that makes me think, I need that. Whether you're leaning toward this season's popular barrel-leg cut or you prefer a classic straight-leg, the one thing that can make or break your denim base is your footwear choice. The bottom half of your ensemble is not to be overlooked; fortunately, the seven shoes you'll find below will go with any jeans you choose. For those days when you're editing your closet or are just in need of some inspiration, look at these shoe options and trust that they'll give you the versatility you're looking for when styling your denim (even skinny jeans).
There are high heels and kitten heels, as well as more comfortable ballet flats and loafers in the mix. And with fall creeping up, ankle boots and sneakers will have your footwear game complete. Basically, I've got you covered in the shoe department (you're welcome). Without further ado, keep scrolling for all the shoe-and-jean combinations that you can't go wrong with.
Kitten Heels
Kitten heels can elevate even the most casual outfit, including any of your favorite pair of jeans, making them appear instantly more sophisticated. Whether you wear them with cropped jeans to give them more of a spotlight or a long pair of wide-leg jeans so they just graze the floor, you won't regret adding them to your outfit rotation. Hell, they'll even dress up a simple black sleeveless top. Accessorize with a shoulder bag, and your running-errands ensemble will become infinitely chicer.
Flats
Flats and barrel-leg jeans are a match made in heaven. Baggy denim and this type of shoe nail that effortless look, but if you want to give off the prep vibe or channel your most demure self, you can opt for kick-flare, straight-leg, or *gasp* skinny jeans.
A twist on a classic, these mesh flats allow you to show off your pedicure.
Ankle Boots
Though ankle boots might seem like they're tricky with jeans, the rules are simple: You can either choose denim that fits over them or choose a pair that you want to tuck into your boots. That's it. I tend to opt for the former, but if you really want to make your shoes the focal point, the latter is your best bet. A snakeskin-printed pair will add some edge to any look, especially when styled with a bomber jacket, graphic tee, and studded belt, like above.
Open-Toe Sandals
Sandals and jeans are a great combo for summer, but you can also take it into those warmer days of fall. If you're going for comfort and want a low-key look, finish your outfit with a T-shirt, tank, or button-down and add a bag that complements the colors.
Birks are staples for a reason, and this burgundy hue will bring the style into fall.
For extra ankle stability, these slingback ones are it.
Loafers
Loafers and jeans will be your go-to formula come fall, trust me. There are so many loafer styles and colors you can choose from, whether you go for a sleek silhouette or one with a chunky sole. Simply finish your outfit with a bold sweater and bag if you want to stand out, or you can go with an all-black ensemble that'll make getting dressed in the morning just a little easier.
Sneakers
Sneakers are another shoe that will go with any kind of denim. Give off a sporty or gorpcore vibe this season if you like retro aesthetics or corded details, but there are also more minimalist styles depending on what you're going for. Wear 'em with straight-leg, wide-leg, and bootcut jeans… The list goes on. And they'll look good with slimmer or cropped styles too.
The Gazelles are giving the Sambas a run for their money; plus, they come in so many fun colors.
Like two shoes in one, this fusion design by Wales Bonner is bound to go fast.
High Heels
Add some height to your outfit with some high heels. This shoe is great if you have longer jeans in your closet because the fabric won't be dragging completely on the ground. You can wear them with skinny jeans to elongate your legs, but they'll also look killer in a roomier shape like above. Once your bottom half is figured out, complete your ensemble with a cropped top and trench for some drama. A sweater or long-sleeve will also pair well with this formula for those chillier fall days.
The snake-embossed leather gives these black pumps a little something extra.
Opt for these red-hot slingbacks when you want your footwear to really pop.
Very into these open-toe mules with a slight flared heel.
Lauren Adhav is a freelance fashion editor based in Los Angeles. Originally from Orlando, Florida, she got her start as the beauty and fashion editorial assistant at Cosmopolitan and worked her way up to fashion editor. She contributed to both the website and print issues, pitching new ideas, forecasting trends, covering red carpet events, and informing the overall coverage and brand voice.
After five years in NYC, she moved to Los Angeles. As a freelance fashion editor, she contributes to Cosmo, The Cut, and nowBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing . She also spends an unhealthy amount of time online shopping for the perfect piece, and now that she's in L.A., she's rediscovering her soft spot for malls.
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