Here’s what flats to wear with jeans wherever you’re going, per fashion pros
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Pretty much everyone owns denim and flat shoes—but figuring out what flats to wear with jeans can be tougher than it seems. The polarizing combo, once affiliated with early-aughts fashion, has recently earned its place again as a timeless marriage of casual cool and feminine flair. Sure, jeans work well with just about anything you pair them with; heels and boots instantly transform denim into a work-to-dinner ensemble, while sneakers offer all-day comfort. But flat shoes have the upper hand. They’re super-stylish, while their leveled soles offer easy walkability.
With the jeans-and-flats renaissance officially upon us, you’re probably wondering how to give the pairing a modern spin. Luckily, all the classics—loafers! ballerinas! Mary Janes!—can soften the rigid structure of the latest denim styles and keep you right on trend. (Just ask Dua Lipa and Margot Robbie.) Need a few pointers on how to wear flats with jeans? See the street-style outfit ideas we’ve bookmarked for inspiration below.
How to style flats and jeans, at a glance
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Here’s What Flats to Wear with Jeans Wherever You’re Going, Per Fashion Pros
Boyfriend jeans and slingback flats
No need to break out the kitten heels—slingback flats are guaranteed to turn the sophistication up on a pair of perfectly oversized boyfriend jeans. The baggy shape juxtaposes the shoes’ sexy sharpness without completely overpowering an outfit. Plus, this combination is comfy enough to walk in all day, not to mention plenty polished in case of a last-minute date or drinks. You could go with a simple tee, but a slinky top or romantic blouse will achieve that model-off-duty look.
Wear to: Sunday brunch or a casual date
Straight-leg jeans and penny loafers
If you’re looking for structure without losing cool girl points, consider opting for a pair of penny loafers. They’re lightweight with a thin silhouette—no outdated chunky soles in sight—and, when paired with classic straight jeans, will give your outfit an elongated, preppy vibe that feels timeless and tailored. The result is perfect for an office-to-happy hour run, with or without a blazer.
Wear to: The office, followed by a martini with the girls
Puddle jeans and ballerina flats
The early 2010s are, indeed, back, and you can channel the era in puddle jeans and ballet flats. The on-trend outfit pairing looks intimidating at first glance, but you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to turn floor-sweeping denim and ballet flats into an elevated look; all you need is a nice sweater, a tailored trench, and a sleek bag. If you’re still on the fence—or dreading your hems getting soaked or frayed—cuff your pair (or rip a page from Jennifer Lawrence’s playbook and wear them unapologetically to the ground).
Wear to: A city shopping day or school drop-off
Barrel jeans and Mary Janes
Barrel jeans are one of our favorite ongoing denim trends, especially as warmer weather approaches. The airy, ankle-grazing shape, beloved by A-listers and editors alike, allows you to play on proportions while also showing off your shoes. While you can’t go wrong with any flats, Mary Janes add a preppy, academic, subtly romantic spin to an otherwise laid-back look. Pro tip: Fold your extra-long jeans at the hem for an of-the-moment cuffed moment.
Wear to: A dressy dinner that might turn into a night out
High-rise jeans and cap-toe flats
Even with mid- and low-rise denim starting to take over the zeitgeist, we’ll always ride for high-rise jeans. To make your denim feel current, though, why not have fun playing around with bold shoe silhouettes? We’re partial to cap-toe flats that offer a structured yet striking contrast to high-waisted pants. Plus, with Chanel-mania taking over fashion, a design inspired by the house’s iconic ballerinas is never a bad investment.
Wear to: A matcha run or a nice lunch
