8 Best Types of Shoes to Wear With Wide Leg Pants

Styling pros share which shoes look the best with wide leg bottoms.

Published on July 29, 2024

woman with wide leg pants — Photo:
Alexandr Dubynin/Getty Images

Wide leg jeans are clearly the pants of the moment, championed for their relaxed, comfy fit and low-key, chill aesthetic. Like any style of jeans, they’re available in everything from light wash to inky black denim, ultra baggy or just a bit more loose—and you can style them a million different ways. If you’re looking for hot tips on the best shoes to wear with wide leg pants, take your style advice from the fashion pros we spoke with.

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Chunky Loafer

Along with wide leg jeans, chunky loafers are enjoying their moment in the style spotlight—and these two work brilliantly as a duo. “These classic shoes look great with a cropped wide-leg pant,” says Lesley Evers, clothing designer and style expert. “The chunky loafer adds a bit of polish; it gives the outfit a bit of edginess while remaining a classic and timeless look.” Try the Chinese Laundry Porter Casual Loafer ($90, Chinese Laundry).

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Ballet Shoes

Another shoe that’s getting lots of attention right now is the sweet and feminine ballet flat, which is as comfortable as it is stylish. You can choose a pair with ribbons and opt for a cropped wide leg to show ‘em off, or try a mesh option—like the Tony Bianco Melany Flat ($160, Revolve)—with a buckle across the top.

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Birkenstocks

Everyone’s got a pair of Birkenstocks (or a similar silhouette) in their closet, says Jen Hinton, co-founder of Carve Designs. And if you don’t? This is your sign to pick up a pair, like the Birkenstock Arizona Vegan Shoe ($110, Birkenstock). Hinton says they’re super comfortable, just like wide leg jeans, and that the look is perfect for everything from everyday errands to the bar.

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Open-Toe Block Heel

To help balance out the heaviness of a wide leg jean, throw on a pair of open toed shoes. They bring a touch of lightness to the look, and the block heel polishes things up a bit while giving you some height and elongating your legs. Check out the ASOS Hopeful Block Heel Sandals in Clear and Rose Gold ($37.99, ASOS).

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Square-Toe Flats

“The trendy square-toe ballet flats add a chic vibe to any wide-leg pants,” Evers says. “Have fun with these shoes and wear a style that reflects your personality. There are so many great square-toe ballet flat options from mesh to rhinestones.” One of her favorites for a classic look is this Nordstrome Mary Jane Flat ($89.85, Nordstrom) that comes in black, red, and cream.

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Sneakers

You can’t go wrong with sneakers and a wide leg jean. Not only do the two complement each other since they’re both on the more casual side, but it makes for a super comfy fit. Hinton says this is one of her go-to approaches when she’s traveling and walking everywhere. Try the Alo Recovery Mode Sneaker ($185, Alo).

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Platform Sandal

“Platform sandals look fantastic with wide-leg jeans whether they're full-length or cuffed,” Evers says. “The platform adds height to balance the wide-leg look.” You can opt for a neutral like the BCBGeneration Faye Strappy Platform Sandal ($89, Nordstrom)—it’ll pair well with practically everything—or add a little kick with a splashy color.

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Flip-Flops

To keep things ultra casual, Hinton recommends pairing your wide leg jeans with some flip flops and a simple tee or tank top. A little platform gets your feet off the ground, which is more sanitary when walking a lot. Try the Donald Pliner Seena Slip On Thong ($158, Donald Pliner), which comes in blue, black, beige, pistachio, and coral. Hinton says, “Pair with a belt or scarf for an effortlessly put together vibe or a pair of sunglasses for the beach or lunch with friends.”

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