Stylists Share the 11 Finest Footwear to Put on With Denim Shorts

Denim shorts have an extremely informal fame, and whereas classically that could be the case, it is potential to make the summer time fashion staple match a complete vary of events with the appropriate styling and accessorizing. Identical to with sundresses, realizing the perfect sneakers to put on with denim shorts could be a game-changer relating to dressing them up and down. We received stylists’ insights on which kinds are most able to improve your look, from sneakers and flats to platforms, wedges, and cowboy boots. Take a look at 11 of the perfect sneakers to put on with denim shorts forward, full with product picks to buy.

Sneakers

You possibly can’t go improper with pairing sneakers with denim: They’re like two peas in a pod. “In the event you’re searching for an off-the-cuff combo for journey or out of doors actions, go for a sneaker,” says NYC-based vogue stylist Audree Kate López. “If you wish to gown up the denim shorts, go for a smooth silhouette in a impartial coloration like white or black; if you wish to add a pop of coloration, seize a pair of colourful avenue sneakers like Adidas Gazelles, New Stability 327 Sneakers, or platform high-top Converse.”

Woven Mules

You will have observed that woven slides are making a comeback. The laid-back but fashion-forward footwear silhouette is a good possibility for dressing up denim only a smidge, particularly in the event you go for a pointed mule. “Reduce-off denim shorts paired again to a mule elongate the leg by permitting for an uninterrupted line, drawing your eye to the ankle (the slimmest half),” says FP stylist Julie Parladé. “A mule can even assist steadiness the informal nature of denim shorts by dressing them up just a little. And by exhibiting off the ankle, mules are nice for any size of shorts.”

Ballet Flats

Ballet flats got here again in a serious method over the previous yr, they usually’re an important choice to pair with denim shorts on days while you need to really feel put-together however not too dressed up. “Ballet flats are the proper in-between in the event you don’t need to put on open-toe sandals however don’t need heavy sneakers,”   López says. “A ballet flat can gown up your denim shorts and elongate your legs [more than] a sneaker or chunky shoe silhouette.”

Strappy Sandals

Strappy sandals and heels would possibly really feel like an odd match for denim, however the fanciful, party-ready silhouette helps steadiness out jean shorts’ nonchalant enchantment. “I like a strappy sandal with Bermuda cut-offs and an outsized assertion shirt,” López says. “It’s the proper mixture of one thing informal (the shorts), one thing fancy (the highest), and one thing in-between (the sandal).”

Cowboy Boots

Cowboy boots are a traditional denim pairing. Whether or not you go for tall, mid-calf, or quick boots, you may count on to seem like an elegant Western dream. “For my part, a cowboy boot is simply as versatile as a white sneaker—and it’s the shoe of the season,” López says. “Cowboy boots immediately elevate your look and add some enjoyable persona to the outfit. They are often worn day or night time, they’re good for shielding your toes at a live performance or competition, they usually’re comfy.”

Kitten Heels

In search of one other method to gown up your denim shorts with out getting into stilettos?  López and Parladé agree {that a} kitten heel is the best way to go. “If you wish to transition your shorts from day to nighttime or gown them up for a weekend brunch, pair them with a kitten heel,” López says. “It’s Carrie Bradshaw-coded and giving model-off-duty.”

Logistically, Parladé says the footwear alternative is all about steadiness. “Just like the mule, a minimal kitten heel balances the burden of a denim quick whereas elevating it, [which is] good for an outing or work setting,” she explains.

Chunky Dad Sandals

One other comfy, informal possibility is chunky dad sandals or slip-ons. These may be something from Crocs and Hoka Restoration Slides to Tevas and different velcro sandals. “My go-to mixture for trip is a chunky dad velcro sandal or chunky platform slides,” López reveals. “They’re cozy for journey and strolling round, they usually make your outfit really feel just a little extra it-girl.”

Gladiator Sandals

One other footwear silhouette that’s again from the lifeless to enhance your denim shorts? Gladiator sandals. Accessible briefly, medium, and tall silhouettes, these strappy sandals can tailor a pair of denim shorts right into a statement-making ensemble. “An excellent alternative for summer time, gladiator-style sandals steadiness longline shorts properly, with added consolation and walkability,” Parladé says. “Extra {hardware} on the sneakers add an edgy enchantment to denim.”

Mesh Flats

In the event you’ve been on TikTok recently, you’ve seemingly observed mesh flats flooding your feed. “In case you haven’t heard but, mesh flats are the brand new shoe of the summer time,” López says. “In the event you’re in a brilliant sizzling or humid local weather, I believe mesh flats are an ideal various to a ballet flat, idler, sneaker, or any materials that can make your toes sweat.”

Whereas López is especially keen on the Khaite rhinestone mesh flats “for a refined trace of sparkle and focal point to your outfit,” you may as well get the same have a look at Goal for a fraction of the value (therefore why TikTokers have been flocking to the platform to share the dupe recently).

Platform Heels

For a fab method to denim shorts styling, think about pairing your cut-offs or Bermudas with a pair of platform heels or chunky wedges. These sneakers elevate the textile with out making it look too dressed up. “The wedge has made her comeback, so in the event you love a snug heel, add a wedge or a platform heel to your summer time wardrobe,” López says. “You possibly can go for a Mary Jane platform heel, espadrille wedge, or any materials you’re searching for.”

Loafers

For an informal but refined vibe, think about stepping right into a pair of loafers the following time you go for a pair of shorts. “I like pairing a chunky idler and white crew sock with denim shorts,” López says. “Whether or not your private fashion is preppy, grungy, or the Scandi cool-girl, a idler can elevate a pair of high-waisted shorts or low-rise Bermudas.”

Parladé agrees, noting that she significantly enjoys pairing loafers with micro shorts. “A traditional idler mixed with a white crew sock is one other nice shoe pairing for denim shorts, significantly these with smaller inseams as they add nice polish and steadiness to a shorter quick,” she explains. “This mix is work-appropriate and one other nice possibility for strolling within the metropolis.”