If you’re a fan of skinny jeans(which we’ll assume you are!), you’ve probably faced this dilemma at least once during your life: you’ve put together a super-cute outfit with your favorite pair of skin-tight jeans, and you have absolutely no idea what shoes to wear with them. Depending on the occasion, strappy heels might feel too dressy; a flat sandal can sometimes look too bulky; and you feel like you just can’t pull off a sneaker.
We get it—so much so that we’ve racked our brains for 8 amazing ways to wear a plethora of different shoes with skinny jeans. Each kind pulls off a very different (but equally stylish) vibe, and hopefully these tips will help the next time you’re feeling shoe stumped.
Classic Sneakers
Arguably the most on-trend shoe at the moment, the classic lace-up sneakers definitely should have a place in your wardrobe, especially when paired with a solid skinny jean. These work well when you’re having a super casual daytime event, or simply running errands in a slouchy T-shirt and jeans.
Flat Sandals
If you’re heading to brunch or a casual cocktail hour after work, pair your skinnies with a pair of chunky flat sandals. The seemingly omnipresent Birkenstock works great for this look, but try to make sure you go for a lighter, brighter color to avoid looking a bit bottom-heavy.
Pointy Flats
Yes, pointy-toe flats can be more than just the shoes you wear to and from the office every day. They can also dress up a pair of skinny jeans in a very sleek and simple way—just steer clear of versions with embellishments, instead opting for classic ones in black, navy blue, and other staple shades.
Slip-On Sneakers
The other major on-trend shoe right now also happens to look stellar with a pair of skinnies. Avoid platform versions, which tend to unnecessarily add clunk—instead, opt for average soles. Feel free to play around with fun colors and prints, though—the slip-on world is your oyster.
Strappy Heels
For maximum sex appeal, forego all other shoe options in favor of a strappy heel. You have a lot of freedom here when it comes to color—everything from a simple, understated black version to a wild pop of colors or prints will work—but be sure to steer clear of patent and other shiny, potentially inexpensive-looking fabrics.
Classic Pointy Pumps
If you want a sleek and easy way to dress up a pair of skinny jeans, definitely reach for your favorite pair of pointy-toed pumps. Black or nude are always classic options, but if you want to make more of a statement, definitely reach for a pop of color like red, snakeskin, or cobalt.
Meghan Blalock