Some Tricks on Pairing Jeans with Shoes

We like pants. We love shoes. Why is it that matching jeans and shoes feels more difficult than the Sunday crossword puzzle? It’s not, we promise. If you use these clues, matching jeans and shoes does not have to be difficult.

Continue scrolling to learn how to solve the jeans-with-shoes dilemma.

These are some bite-sized tips:

1. Which occasion are you attending? You need to decide if you want casual or dressy pairings.
2. Find the right fit for you. You can find the right fit, style, and wash for you.
3. Learn how to cuff jeans. This trendy style is easy to do for any man.
4. You can combine it all with a casual or dressy shoe.

PICK YOUR OCCASION

Consider the setting. Do you want to be casual or dressy? Let’s talk about the sartorial choices that are required for every occasion.

• Casual

Casual does not have to be careless. You can still look great with a low-key outfit. Even in a casual style, the elements of a wardrobe should complement each other. A pair of patent leather Oxfords with faded, ripped Jeans would be something you wouldn’t wear. (Would you?) Right.

• Semi-Formal

Semi-formal attire is suitable for most situations, from casual work to night out. For this look, a collared shirt, sweater, or boots can be worn with loafers, boats shoes, boots, or white sneakers. To give your outfit an extra edge, you can tuck your shirt in for those more formal occasions.

• Dressy

Are you looking for somewhere to go? You’re ready to take it to the next level. But, don’t let those winklepickers distract you. For a more formal look, a dark-washed jean can be paired with leather or suede shoes. These jean are the perfect foundation for a blazer and collared shirt combo.

CHOOSE YOUR IDEAL JEANS

It can be difficult to find the right pair, so take it step by step. Your inseam is the first thing you should measure. Next, measure your inseam and find the right wash. If you are feeling adventurous, try cuffing a few times. We recommend at least two.

Find your style

Straight, slim, skinny. Pre-WWII jean styles or nicknames? Keep your pants on if you are unsure. The majority of jeans can be classified by their “fit” or “leg” style. There are many terms used by different brands, but these are the most common.

• A slim fit is usually tapered at the waist and has a low to medium rise. This style is great for more formal occasions.
• The Classic (or Regular) fit is a cut that falls at the natural waist and has a straight leg. This style is available in many styles and suits a wide range of body types.
• Jeans with a relaxed fit are more comfortable for those who are athletic or husky.
• Loose-fit jeans are usually a low waisted and baggy in the butt, thighs and stomach.
• The slimmer, lower-rise skinny jeans have a shorter thigh and legs. This is the best for slim men.
• Straight leg is exactly that: jeans run straight down the hips, thighs and legs.
• Bootcut jeans are designed with a long leg so that they can be worn over boots.

No matter what pair you choose to wear, this rule of thumb will help you keep your inseam from getting too tight around your ankles. If you are unsure, go down a size or take it to a tailor. Dress for an occasion in something more tapered. Don’t wear baggy jeans and dress shoes. Ever.

Choose a Wash

You can achieve casual looks with any wash. Pair them with a tee, untucked collared shirt and your good to go.

If you want to look professional, avoid the distressed or over-faded details. Only Jon Bon Jovi can wear shredded bottoms to a cocktail party. You can choose your perfect fit in a darker color: black, dark grey, or blue.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHOES FOR YOUR JEANS

Jim Carrey famously declared in The Mask (1994): “It is shoe time!” (We believe that’s what we heard. It doesn’t have be difficult to find the right shoes. Just a few carefully chosen styles can make a big difference.)

It’s time to unleash your inner lumberjack. Combining jeans and boots is easy. You should choose slimming jeans, but not too tight. Thin jeans will look unnatural paired with a larger shoe.

Boots can be worn in any wash. They can be dressed up or down with a dark wash or a distressed style. Work boots and chukkas look great with a rolled collar. If you are a fan of cowboy boots, boot cut jeans will work well over your boots.

How to wear shoes with jeans

• Shoes, loafers and boat shoes

While sneakers are casually dressed, they’re not the only option. You can add some street credit to your outfit with Chelsea boots or lace-up Chelsea boots.

You can make distressed or faded jeans the focal point of your outfit. You can keep things simple and choose a more rugged shoe or a pair of Chucks in bright white, black or a classic Chucks. For example, you might not want to wear boat shoes or leather chukkas. These can be worn with your favorite solid-color jeans.

• Loafers, oxfords, and other dress shoes

Imagine yourself wearing a pair of slim, tapered dark-wash jeans. You look dope. To complete the look, you will need a leather or suede dress shoe.

Your pants should be just above the top of your shoe. Never let the hem touch the ground. If you like the look of Secret Fancy Socks, a subtle cuff can be a great way for you to showcase them. (We are.)

• Brogues, monk straps, and tasseled footwear

Fashion favors the bold, you know that. Or something similar. This style is for you if you are the type of guy who wants to be different from the rest and always look new.

For a truly unique look, pair your jeans with brogues, monk straps or tasseled loafers.

• Plain toe, whole cut and patent

It’s time to break all the rules with your black dress shoes, just like Bob Dylan’s song, The Times They Are A Changin’. You don’t have to wear black formal shoes with your suit or tuxedo.

You’ll need to wear a slim fitting, dark-washed or even black, as with all dresses.

This is it! The definitive guide to wearing jeans with shoes. It wasn’t difficult, was it? You can now confidently wear jeans to any occasion, casual or formal. Remember that lighter jeans are best for casual occasions, while darker, slimmer jeans are better for formal settings.