How to Wear Sneakers With Jeans, No Matter Where You’re Going

These days, each road fashion star is aware of tips on how to put on sneakers with denims within the coolest method doable. But there was as soon as a time when the outfit combo meant just one factor: You had been somebody’s dad. Channeling Hot Dad Energy, normcore, and different fashion-forward aesthetics weren’t a factor. You had been simply…somebody’s dad. The type of man who relied on pairing his chunky jogging footwear with aggressively medium-wash blue denims.

But that was then. Now, to put on sneakers with denims is much less an outfit and extra a philosophy—an train in proportion, texture, and the artwork of wanting such as you didn’t strive too onerous. (When in actuality, everyone knows it took three outfit adjustments, 4 shoe swaps, and an inside debate about whether or not high-top sneakers or low-top white sneakers had been the transfer.) But when you crack the code? It turns into a uniform—a low-effort, high-impact staple you may pull out time and again. And actually, we love an outfit repeat. Because it is extra sustainable, in fact, but in addition as a result of when one thing works, why struggle it?

The blueprint has at all times been there. Remember Princess Diana within the ‘90s, stepping out in her Levi’s, white Converse, and a slouchy sweatshirt to show that easy can nonetheless be assertion making? Then there have been the early 2000s supermodels, operating errands in bootcut denims, Nike Dunks, and a fitted cardigan and making informal outfits look editorial. Even at present, those self same formulation maintain up—it’s all about steadiness. The proper pair of sneakers can elevate denim from one thing you simply threw on to a strolling street-style temper board.

So, let’s get into it. Here’s tips on how to put on sneakers with denims to hit that good candy spot.

1. Wide-Leg Jeans + Sleek Sneakers

We are deep in a Big Jean Renaissance, and the sneakers you pair with vast leg denims could make or break the silhouette. If your denims are full-length and puddling simply barely over your footwear (assume Hailey Bieber off-duty), then you definitely’d do finest to seek out sneakers that steadiness the quantity—one thing structured however not overwhelming, daring however not cumbersome.

What works: a glossy but substantial sneaker like New Balance 9060s, Adidas Gazelles, or Nike P-6000s. The distinction between the surplus material and a streamlined (however barely chunky) shoe creates that “I do know vogue, however don’t strive too onerous” vibe.

What would not: Avoid the extremely cumbersome, dad-core runners that swallow your toes or, on the flip facet, tremendous minimal sneakers that disappear beneath the denim. The purpose is steadiness right here—let the denims stream, however give them an anchor.

2. Cropped & Cuffed Denim + Statement Sneakers

If the hem of your denims hits ankle-length—whether or not they’re cropped, cuffed, or aggressively hacked with a DIY laser-cut second—then take into account it sneaker showcase time. Your footwear grow to be the point of interest, in order that they higher be well worth the consideration.

What works: Sleek, low-profile sneakers like Adidas Sambas, Onitsuka Tigers, or Nike Cortez. The purpose? A refined silhouette that enhances the uncovered ankle with out overwhelming it.

What doesn’t: Bulky, heavy sneakers throw off the steadiness. An enormous shoe with a cropped hem can really feel clunky as a substitute of intentional. Keep it streamlined.

3. Straight-Leg Jeans + Timeless Classics

A superb pair of denims with a straight-leg lower is the common donor of denim—it goes with the whole lot. And but, sneaker choice nonetheless issues. The key right here is to maintain it traditional however intentional.