Not sure what shoes to wear with wide leg trousers? The loose-fit shape is everywhere this season, and the footwear styling options are pretty much endless. As a fashion editor, I love the laidback, comfortable vibe of the wide leg trouser, but I also understand that many fashion fans are put off from wearing them because finding the perfect shoe to wear with wide leg trousers requires far more thought than the rest of your wardrobe.
Yes, I admit that finding the best shoes to wear with your wide leg trousers will take a little more effort than slinging on trainers with the best jeans for your body type, but I promise that once you have found your footwear formula, you will be wearing this look on repeat.
Wide leg trousers are totally timeless, and I think every capsule wardrobe should contain at least one pair. You can style them up or down easily, and your shoes can swiftly take them from daytime casual to a smarter evening vibe with minimal effort. I’d always recommend taking some time out to try on multiple outfits with different shoes in front of a mirror, to find a combination that works for you. Trends are great, but when it comes to finding the best shoe to wear with wide leg trousers, its most definitely more important to feel your best so go with what works for your own style personality.
Shoes to wear with wide leg trousers – 12 different types of shoes that will complete your outfit
Whether you’re a big fan of your stomping boots or prefer to be out in strappy heels, you’ll find key tips and styling ideas below to make your everyday shoes work with this season’s must-have wide leg.
1. How to style wide leg trousers with trainers
Comfy trainers will give wide leg trousers a sporty spin.
Trainers have made the big move from basic gym bag and weekend attire, to all week wonder-shoe over the last few years. Whether you prefer retro pumps, like the Adidas Gazelle or a Samba inspired colour-pop pair, or are loyal to chunky trainers from the likes of New Balance, both are great shoes to wear with trousers and will give off an athleisure vibe without having to try too hard. The length of the leg should ideally skim over your sporty footwear rather than a cropped length that shows the whole shoe. It’s a nice way to make smarter trousers feel more casual, and is a great choice for anybody that wants their shoes to be chic and comfortable.
RRP: £85 | The Gazelle has got a huge cult following and is still hugely popular. This classic suede, monochrome design will compliment most outfits nicely.
RRP: £94 | With a super-soft organic fabric and flattering cut, you’ll reach for these every day. Team with a tucked in tshirt and oversized shirt for off duty cool.
RRP: £79 | We love the simplicity of this biscuit-toned number. The just-below-the-knee length means the proportions work with wide leg trousers, and the classic design means it'll work for years to come.
2. How to style wide leg trousers with ballet pumps
Ballet pumps have a soft and minimal feel that work well with stronger trouser shapes.
The humble ballet pump is officially back in the style spotlight for 2024 and its no surprise as there’s something super easy and simple about the slip-on style. Keep it fuss-free with a nude or plain black pair or go for a strappy Mary Jane for extra style points. Ideally, you should just see the toe poking out beneath the hem of this season’s wide leg jeans and trousers, but if you are tall then pumps would work just as well with ankle-length.
RRP: £36 | The pretty pump has seen a massive resurgence over the last couple of seasons and looks set to stay. This bejewelled pair will add a glam footnote to just about any outfit.
RRP: £90 | The high waist and wide leg on these jeans will cinch you in at the middle and skim over hips for a flattering finish. They're available in shorter and longer lengths too.
RRP: £35.99 | This utility-inspired jacket is simple but it will give even the most basic of ensembles a polished spin. Slip over your best cotton t-shirts for a casual combo.
3. How to style wide leg trousers with flat mules
The comfortable mule is perfect for giving trousers a low key spin.
The slip-on mule may not be the prettiest but its been a huge hit with the fashion set and it's seriously comfortable. This modern take on the clog became so popular, there was even a waiting list, but if it doesn't set your pulse racing, have no fear, as there are some slightly more elegant options for flat mules too. Pointed toe, luxe textures and bright colours will give this look a softer vibe. They are quite chunky, so choose a pair of trousers that ends on the ankle or go a bit narrower close to the hemline to avoid tripping up.
RRP: £130 | These clogs are a total classic, that can easily be slipped on in the summer. Just invest in a good suede protector to keep them at their box-fresh best for longer.
RRP: £145 | Linen trousers will bring an easy-breeziness to your outfit. Style soft beige tones like you would your denim - pretty much anything goes with this soft hue.
RRP: £65 | To avoid an oversized shirt overwhelming your frame, half-tuck the shirt at the front or wear it open over a fitted tee. Its a great alternative to a jacket during the warm weather.
4. How to style wide leg trousers with heeled mules
Add some glamour to your trousers with a heeled slip on shoe.
Heeled mules are not only elegant but the backless style means theres no chance of rubbing on your ankles either - hurrah! When it comes to shoes to wear with trousers, heeled mules add a feminine feel to smarter wide leg fits. You could keep it simple with a plain black pair but we like the idea of using your heeled mules to add a pop of colour or metallic shine to neutral trousers, or to temper a printed pair.
RRP: £45 | The low block heel makes them a great height for all-day (or all-night) wear minus any ouch moments and the shiny gold colour will perk up even the simplest of ensembles easily.
RRP: £32.99 | The high waist and crisp pleat at the front of these trousers give the loose shape a polished feel. Match up with bold patterned pieces or keep it simple with other soft neutrals.
RRP: £65 | A floral jacket will lift plainer items with minimal effort. This boho-style piece is available in sizes 16-24 and will add a high-fashion spin to your weekend wardrobe.
5. How to style wide leg trousers with loafers
Add a smart twist to your wide leg outfit with a chunky loafer.
The androgynous style flat is a safe bet for every wardrobe - just make sure you opt for a sturdy and strong pair that will add some oomph to whatever you are wearing. The structured shape is at odds with the freedom of floaty trousers so to make it work, you need to keep the rest of your outfit very streamlined. Think a tailored blazer or a fitted shirt on top, teamed with trousers that toe the line between wide and straight cut. You can get away with a shorter leg length here, and we’d recommend aiming to show your ankles if you’re petite.
RRP: £159 | A playful leopard print and a touchy-feely texture gives these chunky loafers a contemporary spin that will lift your outfit brilliantly.
RRP: £34 | The zesty colour of these lightweight trousers will get you noticed for the all the right reasons and the elasticated waistband keeps them super comfy to wear.
RRP: £42 | It's having a serious moment for 2024 and this zingy button-down is the answer to how to wear a waistcoat. Team with the matching trousers or wear with jeans.
6. How to style wide leg trousers with wedges
Summer-ready wedges work particularly well with linen and denim styles.
Wedged heels have made a bit of a comeback recently and they have a summer-ready holiday vibe that is perfect for wearing with a swishy pair of trousers. As well as looking great, they are comfier than a narrower heel as they support your feet all over. If you’re going for a traditional wedge then make sure your trousers are short enough to show off the detailing on the toes. If you go too long, you’ll look like you could be wearing stilts.
RRP: £35.90 | A classic woven wedge sandal is great for adding some inches while being far more comfy to wear than a stiletto heel. This beige pair will work nicely with midi dresses or trousers.
RRP: £59 | Wide leg trousers don't always have to mean separates, and we love the shape of this flattering jumpsuit. The colourful wild cat print will get you noticed for all the right reasons at a special event.
RRP: £35.99 | This squashy woven bag comes with a detachable chain so you can carry it as a clutch or wear across your body. It’s a gorgeous finishing touch for a summer wedding.
7. How to style wide leg trousers with chunky heels
Chunkier heels work just as well as daintier styles with your trousers.
Trend-ticking shoes don't have to be sky high and spiky heeled - chunkier options will look just as chic while being more forgiving on your feet. Chunky heels is a broad category that can span everything from Mary Janes to the latest boot trends - so there are plenty of options to choose from.
In terms of the style of trouser to wear with your footwear, anything goes. If you’re wearing a statement shoe that you want to show off, choose cropped lengths. If you’re only really wearing a heel to lengthen the lines of your outfit and give yourself a little confidence boost, then go longer - they don’t need to be on show.
RRP: £129 | The contrasting black heel on these modern Chelsea boots break up the high-shine silver for a contemporary feel. Wear with trousers, or to add some oomph to a floral midi.
RRP: £35.99 | The high waist and raw-edge hems on these jet black jeans give them a cool, retro feel that is perfect for a day spent shopping or dinner with friends.
RRP: £30 | A colour pop neckline gives this classic Breton stripe tee a fresh feel that will work nicely for off-duty cool. Wear with jeans or a denim midi skirt.
8. How to style wide leg trousers with stiletto heels
Make a sartorial statement with a bold stiletto heel.
Nothing says special occasion like a pair of stand out stiletto heels. The narrow heel is a fashion-forward footnote to a pretty dress but right now we would recommend wearing your shoes with a tailored suit in a colour pop for added wow. According to the street style set, the coolest way to wear your shoes with wide leg trousers is to just leave the tiniest whisper of your stiletto's toe and heel peeping out from the bottom of the hemline, so avoid cropped lengths that will show off your whole shoe. Ideally, only team stilettos with sturdier fabrics like cotton or denim as overly lightweight crepes have a tendency to catch on spiky heels.
RRP: £35.99 | The soft nude shade of these barely-there strappies mean they will go with everything in your wardrobe. Use them to add a fancy twist to slouchy denim or a sparkly party dress.
RRP: £99 | The bubblegum pink colour way gives these wide leg trousers a warm-weather feel. Wear them with the matching blazer for a smart take or dress down with a simple grey tee and trainers.
RRP: £149 | A tailored blazer has the ability to take even the simplest get-up into high fashion territory. Throw this one over a white shirt or a sequin cami for instant wow.
9. How to style wide leg trousers with slingbacks
Boldy coloured slingbacks will add fun to your outfit.
A slingback is a style of shoe characterised by a thin strap that goes around the ankles to the back of the heel, and they can be worn in a similar way to stilettos and mules. Slingbacks can be heeled or flat and tend to be filled in at the front - normally with a pointed or almond toe. The narrower the toe, the longer you can go with the length of your trousers - this style shoe can work well with extra wide flares and longer trousers. The smart yet playful shoe design will work just as well for daytime glam as it will for dinner with friends.
RRP: £90 | The pointed toe adds polish while the block heel is the ideal height for wearing to the office without any ouch moments. Pair this dreamy green shoe with whites or light denims for a fresh, springtime feel.
RRP: £50 | Make colourful statement with this sunshine-bright pair of wide leg trousers. Wear with primary shades for a fashionable clash or team with other citrus hues.
RRP: £49 | A lighter cardigan is the perfect way to layer in between seasons. This playful colourway will pep up jeans or add extra wow points to a bright pair of trousers.
10. How to style wide leg trousers with stompy boots
Heavy biker boots are surprisingly easy to style with wide leg trousers.
Wide leg trousers have plenty of space for wearing chunkier, shorter boots underneath. Either wear your trousers long to just give a glimpse of the chunky soles and front of your boots, or go edgy and opt for a shorter length trouser that shows your boots off in all their glory. Embrace the grunge vibe across your whole outfit with head-to-toe black for a streamlined look, or keep the rest prim and feminine, using your stompy boots for added edge.
RRP: £200 | Dr Martens are easy to style because anything goes with these timeless boots. This iconic style is built to last and really will last you a lifetime.
RRP: £132 | The utility-inspired take on the wide leg trouser is perfect for daytime cool. This off-white colourway will work equally well with super bright pieces or neutral separates.
RRP: £39.99 | The oversized shape makes this shacket a great throw-on-and-go piece for days when the Great British weather lets you down. Wear it loosely over a plain tee.
11. How to style wide leg trousers with platform shoes
Give your trousers a retro twist with a playful pair of platforms.
The best thing about platforms is not only do they look great, but they’re also much comfier than your average heel. Wide leg trousers with a flare are everywhere at the moment and adding a platform into the mix only exaggerates the shape as well as giving off some serious 1970s vibes. For a classic look, stick to platforms in warm shades of brown or use your footwear to add a pretty touch to your outfit by opting for heels in pastels tones.
RRP £110 | The minty blue colourway of these retro sandals give them a soft and casual spin that means they will work just as well for a daytime soiree as they will for cocktail hour.
RRP £20 | If you're unsure about the best jeans for your body type, a high waist, wider leg style is a safe bet. This relaxed pair will skim over wider hips for a flattering silhouette.
RRP £59 | Channel some Seventies cool into your look with this boldly patterned, pussybow blouse. Team with blue jeans to make the pattern really pop.
12. How to style wide leg trousers with sandals
Day time attire calls for comfy yet chic sandals.
When the weather warms up, loose and floaty trousers combined with a comfy sandal is the ultimate summer uniform. As the shape of the trousers is already creating the illusion of longer legs you can go as chunky as you want with your sandals, without the risk of making your legs look shorter. Think sensible sandals, like Tevas and Birkenstocks. Or, lean into the holiday vibe of floaty trousers and go all Grecian with a strappy or rope sandal instead.
RRP: £39 | These leather chunky sole sandals are perfect for the warmer weather months. They will support your feet while looking seriously stylish.
RRP: £65 | Pair these trousers with the coordinating blouse to take the stress out of getting ready. The tropical print is perfect for a summer holiday.
RRP: £55 | This boldly patterned shirt will look fab with plenty of gold jewels. Wear with the matching trousers or team with white linen shorts.
What to consider when choosing which shoes to wear with wide leg trousers
Finding the best shoes to wear with wide leg trousers requires some thought as the shoes you choose need to buddy up with the trousers well and create a balanced finish to your final look. The first thing to consider is the length of your trousers as floor-grazing, cropped, or ankle length will require different types of shoes. Equally, 'wide leg trousers' is a fairly broad term, particularly as the look is very 'in' right now and a wide leg can cover everything from boyfriend jeans to super wide and relaxed legs.
You should also think about the type of occasion you're looking to dress for. While trainers certainly are a shoe to wear with wide leg trousers, they won't necessarily be appropriate for office attire.
Once you've thought about the above, you can truly start having some fun with your outfits.
What shoes to wear with wide leg trousers in 2024
Unsure what shoes to wear with wide leg trousers for 2024? There are a few factors to consider. We asked the experts - “depending on the length, most wide leg trousers look best with a higher shoe,” says Daisy Barnett, founder, and personal stylist at The Daisy Edit. “It’s also a great way to elongate the leg as the extra volume of a wide leg pant can shorten the appearance of your legs. Boots are a great option, and for a more polished look, I also like an open-toe pump to add just a touch of sophistication.”
It’s heels all the way for personal stylist and jewellery designer Zoé DuFour too. “Wide leg trousers are so versatile, and a staple in my and many of my clients' wardrobes,” DuFour advises. “I love the juxtaposition of masculine and feminine so I would suggest a pointy-toe kitten heel or strappy sandal to add that feminine touch and take you from work to evening.”
For Mathilde Mader, Chief Creative Officer at Everlane, it’s all about the loafer. “Loafers are a great option for daytime,” she explains. “They’re smart but comfortable. Then for the evening a heeled boot or sandal is really lovely to add a bit more glamour. You can either have your trousers to the ground for just a hint of shoe or do an ankle-length crop to really show off your footwear.”
How do you style wide leg trousers for spring and summer?
How you style your wide leg trousers for spring will depend on the time of day. “I love tucking a white tee or simple crew neck sweater into wide leg jeans or trousers for daytime,” says Mader. “When the weather warms up, just take the jumper off and drape it over your shoulders. For an extra layer, an oversized blazer or classic trench finishes off the look. Wear with a loafer or a white trainer for an effortless spring look.”
In the evening, you can think more about adding extra details, whether that’s through fabrics or prints, or with elevated accessories. “Floaty and sheer fabrics will be everywhere this spring and summer, so pair a sheer blouse (with a bodysuit underneath) with your wide leg trousers,” adds DuFour. “Then add a belt and a pointy-toe shoe or strappy sandal.”
What shoes not to wear with wide leg trousers?
There aren't many shoes that wont work with wide leg trousers so its hard to get it wrong. I'd avoid anything too fussy, or overly embellished to keep your ensemble looking as clean and chic as possible. It always looks best to have a little bit of your shoe poking out from the bottom of your trousers too, so rounded toe shoes may get swamped under fabric and look a little lost. Overall though, most shoes will work well with wide leg trousers - try on different pairs and find the right match for you.
What footwear to wear with wide leg trousers in winter?
woman&home's Digital Fashion Editor Caroline Parr gives us her top tips for styling the wide leg style all year round - "ankle boots will always be a go-to in the colder months, and they work particularly well underneath wide leg trousers. Choose a block heel to give yourself some height and make your legs look longer, or if you're a fan of flats try chunky loafers and cosy socks with your wide leg trousers. Make sure they fall just above the floor either way. "
Caroline is Digital Fashion Editor for woman&home, and has been a fashion writer and editor for ten years. After graduating from the London College of Fashion, she has spent the last decade tracking down and writing about celebrity outfits, covering events ranging from the Met Gala to the King’s Coronation. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of brands, but always likes to know about new and under the radar labels. She’s originally from Liverpool, and outside of work, her great loves are leopard print and her lively but adorable cocker spaniel, Ghillie.
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