Heels are great—no one is denying that. Stilettos, court shoes, platforms and kitten heels all exist for a reason, but for the day-to-day, flats are imperative. So, it’s pretty lucky that flat shoes are now considered cool.
Of course, we don’t just pay attention to fashion that’s received the ‘cool’ stamp of approval, but when a particular style is in the spotlight, designers are far more likely to grasp onto and release their own version, making it easier to access a wide range of designs. In the case of flats, which have garnered quite the fanbase since the revival of ballet pumps in the middle of last year, their new-found popularity has resulted in a surge of slingbacks, loafers, ballet flats and Mary Janes being released by the week.
With all these shoes at your disposal, I bet you’re wondering how to wear them. Naturally, we went straight to the item we rely on most; the one thing that goes with absolutely every footwear option. Jeans. Together, denim and flat shoes create the bones of an effortless outfit that can be carried through the seasons. Just toss on a coat come winter. Simple!
Scroll on to see some of the jeans-and-flat shoe outfits we’ve bookmarked recently with the coming season in mind.
Style Notes: This outfit covers so many autumn trends. Trench coat? Check. Chunky loafers? Check. Wide-leg jeans? Triple check.
I adore the shape of this trench, plus the option to cinch it in at the waist.
This particular style is hugely popular and selling fast.
You’ll get so much wear out of these all season long. Just add socks when the temperature drops.
Style Notes: Two-tone pumps always feel very Chanel-esque, so it only makes sense to pair them with a classic combination: blue jeans and a blazer. The perfect early autumn look.
The ideal evening layer.
You can’t go wrong with classic blue straight-legs.
Très Parisienne.
Style Notes: This is exactly the kind of look I’ll be relying on as we head into the cooler months. Easy, breezy, and incredibly chic. All hail the Birkenstock Boston.
Stick to your usual size for the perfect loose fit.
This is affordable denim at its absolute best.
There’s a reason it-girls love this shoe.
Style Notes: Cute flats will bring a touch of elegance to the Canadian tuxedo look. We just love a sartorial contrast.
I’ve been eyeing up this jacket for ages, but now I might have to add it to my collection.
Loose-fitting jeans like these are very 2023.
If you’re going to buy just one pair of ballet flat, consider this understated pair.
Style Notes: On days when you crave a little extra warmth, opt for The Frankie Shop’s iconic quilted jacket. Paired with jeans and boots, this is the ultimate weekend uniform.
The years-long popularity of this jacket speaks for itself.
A wear-every-day kind of jean.
Swap out your black sandals for a minimal pair of Chelsea boots.
Style Notes: Oversized shirts are everywhere at the moment, particularly styled casually with jeans and fuss-free footwear.
I could see the Olsen twins rocking this look.
These flattering jeans will never go out of style.
Zara has really stepped up its shoe game in recent seasons (pun intended).
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: 6 Cool and Chic French-Girl Boot Outfits I’m Trying Now