In the first part of this two-part series, we discussed the appropriate hems for various types of pants. Now, let’s tackle the challenge of matching shoes with different pant styles. What shoes should you wear with different pants?
In this updated guide featuring shoes that you can find online, we’ll simplify the best shoe-pant combinations.
Matching Pants and Shoes
You’ll find many pants and shoe pairings that work well together. The goal is to create balance in your outfit. For instance, if you’re wearing wide-leg pants, chunkier sandals might be a good match. Consider how the colors of your pants and shoes work together—similar shades can make your legs appear longer.
Should Shoes Be Darker or Lighter Than Pants?
The traditional approach is to opt for darker shoes, but there’s no hard rule. Lighter shoes can also look trendy with darker pants, like pairing bright pumps with black jeans.
Do I Match My Shoes With My Shirt or Pants?
You can match your shoes with your top or your pants, or neither. You might choose to match with your handbag or lipstick. There are many options that look great.
What Shoes to Wear With Patterned Trousers?
Choose a neutral shade or match your shoes to part of the pattern on your pants.
Shoe Options
Let’s delve into specific shoe styles that match different pant styles you’ll likely have in your closet. Here are various shoe styles, from peep-toe booties to brogues and sandals to slip-ons, that can complement different types of pants.
Considerations for Choosing Shoes
When putting together outfits, think about balance. For example, wide, flowing palazzo pants may pair well with chunkier shoes, while narrow pants may look better with shoes that mirror their slim profile.
The Best Shoes to Pair with Each Type of Pants
Bootcut Pants: These are versatile and look best when they almost touch the floor without covering the entire shoe. Pointy-toed pumps, mid-heel boots, and loafers are good options.
Ankle Pants: These look best when they hit just above or on the ankle bone. High vamp shoes like booties and loafers are flattering.
Skinny Jeans and Skinny Leg Pants: These should hit around the ankle bone without bunching. Strappy sandal heels, pointed toe heels, flats, shorter ankle boots, and knee-high boots work well.
Boyfriend Style Pants: These look great cuffed at mid-calf. Structured flats, heeled shoes, oxfords, pointed toe flats, and low-key sneakers are good choices.
Cropped Flared Pants: These should hit from mid-calf to just above the ankle bone. Block heels, mules, ankle boots, and pointed toe heels are ideal.
Cropped Wide Leg Pants: Avoid adding volume at the bottom. Instead, opt for dainty shoes like pointy toe pumps, loafers, and minimal mules.
Straight Leg Pants: Almost any shoe will flatter straight-leg pants. Strappy sandals, pointed toe pumps, and boots work well.
Wide Leg Pants: These look best below the ankle bone. Flat shoes can work, but a bit of height with block heels, chunky heels, wedges, or strappy sandals can elongate the silhouette.
Utility Pants: These offer a casual look and go well with sneakers, chunky boots, or dressier shoes for contrast.
Leggings: Comfortable and versatile, they pair well with sneakers, brogues, booties, and ballerinas.
Best Shoes to Wear with Jeans
The same rules for pants apply to jeans. Consider the shape and apply shoe guidelines accordingly. You can create endless looks, from casual to formal, with jeans.
What pant-shoe combination do you need help with? What’s your favorite pair of shoes to wear with different styles of pants?