7 Rules for Wearing Heels with Jeans
Updated: Aug. 19, 2016
Contributing style editor Ingrie Williams on everything you need to know about on-trend cuts and pairing hemlines and heels.
1. A Fine Pair
Blue jeans and black shoes never get old, but stylish updates make a world of difference. Here, a cropped cut and sculpted, ankle-baring booties add a modern kick to the classic combo.
Fidelity Jeans, $224; Aldo Booties, $135
2. Lean Denim
In terms of popularity, skinny jeans still reign supreme because they’re downright foolproof. The slim style works effortlessly with all manner of tops and looks great with a range of footwear. For instant polish, choose pointy-toe pumps and fold cuffs flat to graze your ankles if length is an issue.
Joe Fresh jeans, $34; Kendall + Kylie heels, $168, available at Town Shoes
3. Broad Ways
The ultimate laidback look starts with way-cool jeans. A roomy cut, complete with cropped and frayed cuffs, makes this wide-leg style a standout choice. Adding chic sneakers seals the deal. Grab a low-cut pair of denim in inky black and you’ll live in them all season long.
J.Crew jeans, available holiday ’16, $325 (similar style available now); Le Château sneakers, $60
4. Boy Crazy
Relaxed volume meets curve-friendly tailoring. Today’s boyfriend styles offer the best of both worlds, creating jeans that look as good as they feel. Use heels to provide a stylish counterbalance to the slouchy aesthetic. Whether that means killer stilettos or substantial block heels is only a matter of preference.
RW&Co. jeans, $90; Nine West heels, $165
5. Shape Shift
Boot-cut jeans deliver a figure-flattering shape, but that can be ruined by bad hemlines. A little boost via block heel shoes can help hit the sweet spot and allow cuffs to hover above the ground. Try an elongated toe cap to further promote mile-long legs.
Yoga Jeans jeans, $188; J.Crew heels, $314
6. On the Level
The classic straight-leg cut is enjoying a style renaissance, and there’s something delightfully simple about these latest must-have jeans. Cuffs with subtle volume create a break around the ankles that puts footwear on display. Be sure to step up your shoe game with a pair that’s embellished in one way or another.
Uniqlo jeans, $60; Aldo heels, $110
7. Swing Out
Flared jeans are back – and better than ever. A classic blue wash, unadorned by whiskering, distressing or patches, gives the ’70s-era silhouette a modern vibe. Anchor this style with sleek footwear (think almond-shaped or pointed toes) that won’t hinder the eye-catching silhouette.
Frame Denim jeans, $387, available at Holt Renfrew; RW&Co. heels, $130
Related:
• How to Find the Perfect Pair of Jeans
• The Best Jeans for Your Body Shape
• 5 Style Tips from Actress Meghan Markle
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