Trinny Woodall shows how bright red flats instantly elevate barrel-leg jeans and a blazer

Red shoes are the ultimate injection of personality

Image of Trinny Woodall
(Image credit: Getty Images)

When Trinny Woodall offers styling advice, it's worth paying attention. And one of her latest outfits reminded me of one of the easiest ways to make a classic jeans and a blazer combination feel instantly more interesting: add a pop of red.

A sharp blazer with laid-back denim is a tried-and-tested formula, and one that I tend to rely on in the autumn; however, I'm always on the hunt for ways to elevate this duo. Red has the ability to inject personality and joy into otherwise neutral outfits, and Trinny's addition of leather flats in one of autumn/winter's biggest fashion colour trends for 2026 makes this formula feel new and exciting.

She pairs eyelet embellsihed A.W.A.K.E Mode barrel-leg jeans with a navy knit from Bella Freud, creating a relaxed but polished base. She then layers a navy tux blazer on top, and to finish, her Givenchy red ballet flats bring the look together, breaking up the tonal palette of the outfit.

Trinny declares that this year she has discovered "the merit of a red shoe", and I couldn't agree more. Vibrant footwear in this shade can add a playful feeling to just about any outfit without overwhelming your look. And because red is such a strong colour, you only need a small amount of it to make an impact. From pairing vibrant flats with your favourite barrel-leg jeans to styling with tailored trousers, it's also a surprisingly versatile trick.

Plus, tomato red is a key autumn/winter fashion trend for 2026. If you're hesitant about wearing this shade, it is a particularly easy place to start. Try adding ballet flats to your favourite jeans and knitwear or introduce a red bag to your otherwise neutral outfit.

Molly Smith
Fashion Writer

Molly is a fashion writer for woman&home, whose journalistic career began with her enthusiasm for fashion. Having always been an avid writer, she has contributed to publications covering a variety of topics.

After graduating from her master's in Fashion History and Cultures, she transitioned to teaching at London College of Fashion, where she taught in fashion studies. Now, passionate about writing on the significance of fashion, she is dedicated to inspiring others through the power of dress.

Molly loves staying in the know with the latest fashion trends, and following celebrities for inspiration. Outside of work, she enjoys browsing vintage markets, reading a good novel, or trying new restaurants around London.

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