Pants are a versatile wardrobe staple that can instantly elevate your style game. With so many options available, it’s easy to get creative and experiment with different looks. However, finding the perfect footwear to complement your pants can be a challenge. A mismatched shoe-pant combo can ruin an otherwise great outfit. To help you achieve the ideal look, we’ll explore some of the best pairings that fashion bloggers have showcased, highlighting the key pieces that work together in harmony.
How to Choose Footwear with Pants
When it comes to pairing pants with shoes, there’s no one-size-fits-all rule. But, if you’re looking for some guidance, here are a few general tips to get you started. For cropped pants, opt for high vamp or lengthening shoes like booties or loafers that will elongate your legs. When it comes to menswear-inspired pants like cargo pants, contrast with feminine shoes to add a touch of femininity.
Conversely, if you’re wearing feminine-inspired pants, pair them with menswear-inspired shoes like oxfords for a chic look. With skinny pants, go for well-fitted shoes like strappy sandals that will create a streamlined silhouette. Remember, these are just suggestions – ultimately, the right combination is the one that makes you feel confident and stylish. Now, let’s take a look at some of our favorite combinations to inspire your own shoe- pant pairings.
↓ 20 – White Pants
White pants have become an essential wardrobe staple, and it’s easy to see why. Their versatility is unparalleled, making them a great choice for travel or everyday wear. You can effortlessly mix and match them with various shoes and tops to create a multitude of looks without having to pack multiple outfits. Brown mules are a particularly great pairing option, but feel free to experiment with different styles to find your favorite combination.
If you’re already a fan of white pants, you may want to check out our previous post on how to style them for inspiration. As always, we’ve curated some of our top picks below, including high-waisted pants, a balloon-sleeved pullover, a brown boater hat, and the Gemma mule in leather.
↓ 19 – With Khaki Pants
Khaki pants, a staple in many women’s wardrobes, can be dressed up or down to suit various occasions. One way to add some excitement to this classic piece is by pairing it with bold, statement-making shoes. In particular, the combination of khaki pants and leopard print shoes creates a striking look that is both stylish and unexpected. For those looking to elevate their wardrobe game, here are some great women’s khaki pant outfits featuring this unique shoe-and-pant combo.
For instance, consider teaming high-waisted khakis with bold leopard-print mules, as seen in the following outfit:
1. Mid-Rise Skinny Everyday Khakis for Women ($24.00)
2. Brie Leopard Calf Hair Mules ($59.92)
↓ 18 – With Bright Colored Pants
When rocking bold-hued pants like yellow, it’s best to balance the statement piece with understated footwear options. Simple white or nude heels are great choices to complement these vibrant bottoms, while minimalist sandals offer a chic and comfortable alternative. If you’re feeling adventurous, animal-print shoes can add an extra layer of visual interest to your outfit.
↓ 17 – With Sailor Pants
While traditional sailor pants boast a wider cut, modern designs now offer skinny silhouettes as well. The iconic nautical buttons on both sides remain the defining feature of these trousers. I find them particularly suitable for Monday morning outfits when you need a low-key look that still looks stylish. When paired with simple flat pumps, they exude a charming simplicity, especially if you can find a matching pump to complement your shirt.
↓ 16 – With Palazzo Pants
Palazzos have become a staple in many of our wardrobes, particularly during the summer months where their breathability is a major plus. When it comes to styling them, you can opt for flip flops if they’re the right length, but if they’re a bit longer, heels are a better choice – espadrille heels being a great option. Alternatively, chunky shoes are also a good fit, as palazzos are designed to be voluminous and chunky shoes complement their flowy nature nicely.
On the other hand, when pairing skinny or straight-legged pants with heels or ballet flats, the sleekness of these shoes creates a nice contrast. The key takeaway is that palazzos require a certain type of shoe to balance out their volume, whereas skinny pants can be paired with more refined footwear.
↓ 15 – With Yoga Pants
The allure of yoga pants lies in their unparalleled comfort. However, the plethora of styles now available means you might find yourself tempted to wear them beyond just your yoga practice. In fact, when paired with simple flip flops, they can make a great addition to your everyday casual wear ensemble.
↓ 14 – Sweatpants
The era of sweatpants being confined solely to loungewear has come to an end. Today, they’re a versatile fashion staple that can be paired with various footwear options depending on the occasion. For casual outings, sneakers are a great match. Meanwhile, for a more professional setting, slip-on loafers and mules also complement sweatpants nicely.
↓ 13 – With Wide-Legged Pants
When it comes to pairing flat shoes with pants, I believe that wide-legged pants are the perfect match. The elongated silhouette of these pants means that heels aren’t necessarily needed to create a balanced look. If you’re going for a relaxed style, you can opt for flip-flops or sandals for a casual vibe. For a more polished appearance, loafers or mules can add a touch of sophistication.
↓ 12 – With Cargo Pants
To offset the relaxed vibe of cargo or boyfriend pants, opt for shoes that inject a touch of femininity into the outfit. Consider pairing these styles with footwear in bright, bold colors like pink or yellow, which can create a chic contrast with your top. Alternatively, choose shoes that share the same color palette as your blouse to maintain visual harmony.
↓ 11 – With Bootcut Pants
When it comes to pairing with bootcut pants, we suggest considering two primary footwear options. Ankle boots are an intuitive choice, offering a stylish and weather-appropriate match. However, if you’re not feeling boots or the season isn’t conducive to them, pointy pumps make an excellent alternative. You can opt for flat pump shoes or pointed heel pumps – either way, the subtle peek of the pumps from under the bootcut pants creates a visually appealing combination in our opinion.
↓ 10 – With Vintage Floral Pants
When it comes to dressing for a Spring outing, pairing floral pants with a matching shirt is an excellent choice. For a more polished look, add a touch of sophistication by layering under a plain blazer or coat when the temperature drops. The versatility of this outfit makes it perfect for any spring occasion. Here are some creative ways to wear printed pants that are sure to inspire your next stylish move.
↓ 9 – With Beach Pants
When it comes to deciding what shoes to wear to the beach, there are several factors to consider. For instance, if you’re looking for a fun and relaxed vibe, flip flops might be the perfect choice. Not only do they provide comfort while walking along the sand, but they also add a playful touch to your overall look. And let’s not forget about accessories – sunglasses and beach bags can really bring an outfit together.
With that said, here are some specific pieces that caught our eye: a colorful embroidered beach bag from Star Mela Peri East/ West Tote ($135), a bright parrot-print bikini top from Mara Hoffman Draped Panel Bikini Top ($130), fun beach pants from Christophe Sauvat Collection Carlos Pants ($145), and cute flip flops from Splendid Firefly Rubber Flip Flops ($48).
↓ 8 – With Striped Pants For Work
Elevate your everyday suits with an unexpected twist. Pair striped ankle-length pants with pointy pumps for a chic and professional look that’s perfect for both college-going women and working professionals. The key to this outfit is the high pump, which adds a touch of sophistication to the overall ensemble. For added polish, consider a statement handbag like the one featured here from Mulberry. If you’re looking for something similar, check out [insert link].
The Emerson Fry Pumps are another great option for completing the look. The Milly Gathered Ribbed Pants retail for $295. But don’t be afraid to experiment and add some personality to your outfit. Try pairing these shoes with printed pants and a fur coat for a fun and flirty girl’s night out. Trust us, they’ll make you feel like a million bucks!
↓ 7 – With Black Pants
Whether venturing out or embarking on a grand adventure, having a reliable and versatile wardrobe staple can make all the difference. A trusty pair of black pants, for instance, has the power to transform into not one, not two, but five unique ensembles simply by swapping out the top and adding some carefully curated accessories. The possibilities are truly endless when you have a solid foundation piece like this in your wardrobe.
↓ 6 – With Blingy Party Pants
Add a touch of glamour to your party outfit with these radiant gold pants! When paired with a stylish wrap blouse, ankle strap heels, and a confident stride, you’ll be the life of the party. For inspiration, take a cue from Bollywood diva Priyanka Chopra, who effortlessly blends Hollywood flair with Indian panache. In her iconic music video for ‘Exotic’ with Pitbull, she sizzles in these same gold pants, paired with a sleek black corset.
Complete your look with the Nicholas Jocelyn Tubular Sandals ($279.00), and you’ll be ready to take on the night like a true star.
↓ 5 – With Skinny Leather Pants
For a stylish and sophisticated look, consider pairing leather pants with a top and a statement-making sequined blazer. To complete the outfit, opt for pointy Loafer Flats that add a touch of elegance to your overall look. For more inspiration on how to wear loafers in style, check out our curated collection of [Cute Outfits to Wear with Loafers for Women This Season](link). The sequined blazer adds a dash of glamour, while the leather pants provide a sleek and sophisticated base.
The pointy flats tie everything together, creating a cohesive and effortlessly chic look that’s perfect for dinner parties or date night.
↓ 4 – With Cropped Pants
When incorporating cropped pants into your outfit, consider pairing them with mule heels for a chic and stylish combination. The abundance of mules available today offers a wide range of options, from casual to formal designs. This is especially important when wearing cropped pants, as they can create the illusion of shorter legs. To balance out this effect, elevating your look with some heels can make a significant difference.
For instance, you could opt for Joseph Eliston’s stretch-gabardine slim-leg pants, priced at $220.50.
↓ 3 – With Red Pants
Red pants are a wardrobe staple that deserves to be celebrated. Without a doubt, they’re a must-have in your closet. The versatility of red pants is unparalleled – they can be paired with any type of shoe, but for a stylish and chic look, black shoes are the perfect match. And let’s not forget, when it comes to colored shoes, it’s best to avoid them altogether.
Take Chloé’s striped leather straight-leg pants, for instance.
With a price tag of $1,198, they’re an investment piece that’s sure to elevate your style game. Or, if you’re looking for something more affordable, consider pairing red pants with a cute rose-print top and Chloé’s paneled leather ankle boots, which retail for $497.50.
↓ 2 – With Cigarette Pants For Winters
Indulge in the opulence of Christian Louboutin’s Bibi pumps, a sultry and sophisticated addition to any shoe wardrobe. The Thick-Heel design provides a dramatic flourish, while the suede material lends a luxurious and supple texture. Available in stunning black, this pair is perfect for making a statement at your next formal event.
↓ 1 – With Sporty Pants For Fall
The athleisure trend is revolutionizing fashion, making sporty pants a staple in every season’s wardrobe. To elevate this style, combine them with platform sneakers for a chic and youthful look that transcends seasons. If you’re looking to add an extra layer of sophistication, consider pairing your sporty pants with statement accessories like the Celine Papillon Sunglasses Red ($287) or opt for a luxurious leather derby with platforms (€ 660).
