Denim shorts have an extremely informal status, and whereas classically which may be the case, it is attainable to make the summer time type staple match an entire vary of events with the proper styling and accessorizing. Identical to with sundresses, figuring out the perfect footwear to put on with denim shorts could be a game-changer on the subject of dressing them up and down. We received stylists’ insights on which types are most able to improve your look, from sneakers and flats to platforms, wedges, and cowboy boots. Take a look at 11 of the perfect footwear to put on with denim shorts forward, full with product picks to buy.

Sneakers

You’ll be able to’t go flawed with pairing sneakers with denim: They’re like two peas in a pod. “When you’re on the lookout for an informal combo for journey or outside actions, go for a sneaker,” says NYC-based trend stylist Audree Kate López. “If you wish to gown up the denim shorts, go for a glossy silhouette in a impartial colour like white or black; if you wish to add a pop of colour, seize a pair of colourful road sneakers like Adidas Gazelles, New Stability 327 Sneakers, or platform high-top Converse.”

Woven Mules

You might have seen that woven slides are making a comeback. The laid-back but fashion-forward footwear silhouette is a superb choice for dressing up denim only a smidge, particularly in the event you go for a pointed mule. “Minimize-off denim shorts paired again to a mule elongate the leg by permitting for an uninterrupted line, drawing your eye to the ankle (the slimmest half),” says FP stylist Julie Parladé. “A mule can even assist stability the informal nature of denim shorts by dressing them up a bit of. And by displaying off the ankle, mules are nice for any size of shorts.”

Ballet Flats

Ballet flats got here again in a serious method over the previous yr, and so they’re a fantastic choice to pair with denim shorts on days once you need to really feel put-together however not too dressed up. “Ballet flats are the proper in-between in the event you don’t need to put on open-toe sandals however don’t need heavy sneakers,”   López says. “A ballet flat can gown up your denim shorts and elongate your legs [more than] a sneaker or chunky shoe silhouette.”

Strappy Sandals

Strappy sandals and heels would possibly really feel like an odd match for denim, however the fanciful, party-ready silhouette helps stability out jean shorts’ nonchalant enchantment. “I like a strappy sandal with Bermuda cut-offs and an outsized assertion shirt,” López says. “It’s the proper mixture of one thing informal (the shorts), one thing fancy (the highest), and one thing in-between (the sandal).”

Cowboy Boots

Cowboy boots are a traditional denim pairing. Whether or not you go for tall, mid-calf, or quick boots, you may anticipate to appear to be a classy Western dream. “In my view, a cowboy boot is simply as versatile as a white sneaker—and it’s the shoe of the season,” López says. “Cowboy boots immediately elevate your look and add some enjoyable persona to the outfit. They are often worn day or night time, they’re excellent for shielding your ft at a live performance or competition, and so they’re comfy.”

Kitten Heels

In search of one other solution to gown up your denim shorts with out moving into stilettos?  López and Parladé agree {that a} kitten heel is the way in which to go. “If you wish to transition your shorts from day to nighttime or gown them up for a weekend brunch, pair them with a kitten heel,” López says. “It’s Carrie Bradshaw-coded and giving model-off-duty.”

Logistically, Parladé says the footwear alternative is all about stability. “Just like the mule, a minimal kitten heel balances the burden of a denim quick whereas elevating it, [which is] excellent for an outing or work setting,” she explains.

Chunky Dad Sandals

One other comfy, informal choice is chunky dad sandals or slip-ons. These will be something from Crocs and Hoka Restoration Slides to Tevas and different velcro sandals. “My go-to mixture for trip is a chunky dad velcro sandal or chunky platform slides,” López reveals. “They’re comfortable for journey and strolling round, and so they make your outfit really feel a bit of extra it-girl.”

Gladiator Sandals

One other footwear silhouette that’s again from the useless to enhance your denim shorts? Gladiator sandals. Obtainable in brief, medium, and tall silhouettes, these strappy sandals can tailor a pair of denim shorts right into a statement-making ensemble. “An incredible alternative for summer time, gladiator-style sandals stability longline shorts properly, with added consolation and walkability,” Parladé says. “Extra {hardware} on the footwear add an edgy enchantment to denim.”

Mesh Flats

When you’ve been on TikTok recently, you’ve seemingly seen mesh flats flooding your feed. “In case you haven’t heard but, mesh flats are the brand new shoe of the summer time,” López says. “When you’re in a brilliant sizzling or humid local weather, I believe mesh flats are an ideal various to a ballet flat, idler, sneaker, or any materials that can make your ft sweat.”

Whereas López is especially keen on the Khaite rhinestone mesh flats “for a delicate trace of sparkle and focal point to your outfit,” you may as well get an analogous take a look at Goal for a fraction of the value (therefore why TikTokers have been flocking to the platform to share the dupe recently).

Platform Heels

For a fab strategy to denim shorts styling, contemplate pairing your cut-offs or Bermudas with a pair of platform heels or chunky wedges. These footwear elevate the textile with out making it look too dressed up. “The wedge has made her comeback, so in the event you love a comfortable heel, add a wedge or a platform heel to your summer time wardrobe,” López says. “You’ll be able to go for a Mary Jane platform heel, espadrille wedge, or any materials you’re on the lookout for.”

Loafers

For an informal but refined vibe, contemplate stepping right into a pair of loafers the subsequent time you go for a pair of shorts. “I like pairing a chunky idler and white crew sock with denim shorts,” López says. “Whether or not your private type is preppy, grungy, or the Scandi cool-girl, a idler can elevate a pair of high-waisted shorts or low-rise Bermudas.”

Parladé agrees, noting that she notably enjoys pairing loafers with micro shorts. “A traditional idler mixed with a white crew sock is one other nice shoe pairing for denim shorts, notably these with smaller inseams as they add nice polish and stability to a shorter quick,” she explains. “This mix is work-appropriate and one other nice choice for strolling within the metropolis.”