Ava Gilchrist
Wide-leg trousers have been the breakout wardrobe must-have of the last year, and they're showing no signs of dropping off our radar for the foreseeable future. Between fashion week, where tailoring outnumbered pretty dresses two to one, and the countless floor-grazing pants peddled by the Replica Handbags set, this former radar cut has firmly become a fashion fixture.
Even I, a former midi-dress devotee, have fallen for the polished wardrobe staple like never before. However, wide-leg trousers can take some getting used to in terms of styling, which is why I've been looking at the best trouser-and-shoe pairings to try for the season ahead.
As I mentioned, wide-leg trousers previously eluded me, as they always seemed to be a particularly difficult item to pair with footwear. Evidently, I’m not alone, as we’ve recently seen an increase in searches of the phrase "shoes to wear with wide-leg trousers.”
Luckily, the social media style set are offering up plenty of inspiration on this exact topic, inadvertently giving us a veritable masterclass in how to style wide-leg trousers. Whether you’re looking to style long trousers that pool around the ankle, wide-leg leather pants or traditional suit trousers, those in the know have a footwear option for every occasion.
Keep scrolling for the best shoes to wear with wide-leg trousers, including sleek boots, heeled mules, loafers and so much more.
The 11 Best Shoes to Wear With Wide-Leg Trousers
1. Wide-Leg Trousers + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: I must preface this by saying that wide-leg trousers and ballet flats may not be for everyone. This is most likely due to the fact that many petite people will find their trousers drag on the ground when their shoe choices lack a leg-lengthening heel. (But fear not, there's plenty of suitable wide-leg trousers for petites to suit shorter frames!) However, this super-simple pairing tends to look incredibly chic, and you’ll also be extremely comfortable. If you don't want to venture into heel territory, you can avoid puddles and wear and tear by ensuring your trouser hem is ever so slightly tailored to hit above the sole of your foot to allow for a flat shoe paring, such as a leopard ballet flat.
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Whistles has some of the best leather on the high street.
Slipper flats are my favourite style of ballet pumps, and leopard print just elevates them even more.
2. Wide-Leg Trousers + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: Wide-leg trousers don't always have to be overtly exaggerated. As SEO Writer Ava Gilchrist tells me, "I'm often put off by wearing wide-leg trousers as I find they balloon at the bottom". Instead, she recommends looking to sleeker fits like this straight-leg style pictured here. "A flip-flop complements this cigarette-style cut as it's equally streamlined and allows the hem to gradually gather around the foot in a way that appears incredibly chic."
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You'd have no clue these cost you less than a share of a dinner bill.
Save on the trouser to splurge on this gorgeous croc-effect designer sandal.
3. Wide-Leg Trousers + Minimalist Loafers
Style Notes: The contrast of wide-leg, relaxed trousers and daintier loafers is a good way to balance out the proportions of an outfit. Personally, I love this khaki and black pairing as a softer way to pair dark-toned neutrals.
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The textured khaki is so versatile.
Slip into these and you'll instantly feel smart.
4. Wide-Leg Trousers + Sneakers
Style Notes: To be frank, I’d wear sneakers with just about anything. I think brighter-coloured sneakers look great against neutral wide-leg trousers, as they add interest to your more subdued outfit.
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Stuck on your favourite shade of grey? These trousers come in several different shades.
These contrast trainers have major star power.
5. Wide Leg Trousers + Jelly Shoes
Style Notes: Don't just assume that wide-leg trousers have to equal tailoring. This broderie anglaise pair has a romantic and bohemian feel to it, which opens up a whole world of styling possibilities. This look is the perfect example of that, with the scalloped floral hem and jelly sandal an unexpected combination that we just can't help but find so charming.
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There's something about a white trouser that just makes you feel like you have your life together.
If you're dubious about trying the jelly sandal trend, this affordable pair is the ideal jumping-off point.
6. Wide-Leg Trousers + Chunky Loafers
Style Notes: As we've already established, puddle trousers are a big deal right now, and while it might feel appropriate to style them with heels to keep them off the ground, choose or alter yours to the right length, and I'd argue they look their coolest worn with on-trend chunky loafers. You need only look at this colour-blocked outfit for proof.
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This whole outfit is something I'd replicate.
I'm so glad Sézane brought these burgundy loafers back this year.
7. Wide-Leg Trousers + Strappy Heels
Style Notes: These two are a match made in heaven. The combination of wide-leg leathers and strappy heels feels distinctly "fashion" and will look chic no matter how you style it.
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Agolde might be known as one of the best denim brands around, but these leather pants that they excel in pretty much every trouser category.
The definition of an expensive-looking high street buy.
8. Wide-Leg Trousers + Flat Clogs
Style Notes: During cooler months, I'm all about comfortable clothing, and what could be better than a pair of wide-leg trousers worn with some Birkenstock Boston clogs? Officially fashion's flat shoe du jour, I'd recommend investing in this cream pair as it's the most versatile colour in the range.
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These also come in black, cream, navy and burgundy.
I adore how you get a glimpse of suede peaks out from under the trouser.
9. Wide-Leg Trousers + Chelsea Boots
Style Notes: A pair of Chelsea boots will work hard in your winter wardrobe, pairing well with dresses, skirts and wide-leg trousers alike. To avoid your trousers dragging on the ground, opt for a slightly shorter pair of trousers or pick a boot style that has a chunkier sole.
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These skim the floor so gracefully.
Chunky Chelsea boots always make a statement.
10. Wide-Leg Trousers + Pointed-Toe Heels
Style Notes: This look means business. Pointed-toe pumps will work to elongate the leg and make you appear slightly taller, which is always a bonus if you’re on the shorter side like I am.
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You can always rely on COS for high-quality, tailored pieces.
The fastest way to breathe new life into an outfit? Sleek pumps.
11. Wide-Leg Trousers + Kitten-Heel Boots
Style Notes: Wide-leg leather trousers and kitten-heel boots are a pairing we see season after season. If you have shorter legs, opt for slightly cropped trousers, which will allow you to see more of the boot’s silhouette.
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Reformation never fails when it comes to everyday staples.
I love the unique slanted heel on these.
