If, like me, you're a skinny jean sceptic and only reach for the widest-legged trousers, you’ll know the eternal footwear dilemma: how to keep those hems off the ground without sweeping up everything that crosses your path. The balancing act of practicality and style can feel like a daily challenge – even in summer, the dust is almost as grim as the wet hems winter brings. Finding the right shoe that not only complements the wide-leg silhouette but also ensures you're walking tall (and clean-footed) is key to pulling off the trend with ease.
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And given the renewed interest in wide-leg trousers we’ve seen as we step into summer, now is a fitting time to weigh up your options. Whether you’re looking to style long suit trousers that pool around the ankle, bold ballooning silhouettes, casual cargos or floor-grazing jeans, there's a footwear option for every occasion.
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Loafers with Socks
The perfect blend of preppy and practical, loafers and socks creates a polished look while keeping your feet cosy. This pairing, favoured by Miu Miu, Gucci and Prada, works especially well with wide-leg trousers in heavier fabrics like wool or corduroy, giving your outfit a classic feel. Frilly, ribbed or sheer, adding socks makes this combination ideal for transitional weather or chilly autumn days. Opt for chunky loafers to add some height to the look and balance out the volume of your trousers.
Lug-Sole Boots
For a more utilitarian aesthetic, lug-sole boots are your go-to. The thick, textured sole provides traction for slippery streets while adding a rugged edge to wide-leg trousers. These boots work best with extra-long styles or equally hard-wearing cargo trousers. The extra height from the chunky sole will give you that much-needed lift to stay off the ground.
All Saints Hallie Leather Ankle Boots
Kitten Heels
If you're looking for a more polished, feminine touch, kitten heels are an ample option. Not to mention the recent resurgence we’ve seen of the office siren shoe in recent months. Their subtle height is just enough to prevent wide-leg trousers from dragging without being uncomfortable for daily wear. This option is perfect for office settings or evening events where you want to elevate your look without sacrificing comfort.
Mango Pointed-toe heeled shoes
John Lewis Cosmos Kitten Heel
Ballet Flats
While not the most practical trend, especially for those under 5ft 5inches (like myself) who frequently find themselves tripping over their wide-leg trousers, when the balance is right, a pair of ballets flats can add just the right amount of easy elegance to your long-legged look. Their slim profile creates an understated contrast between the voluminous trousers. Best worn with cropped or ankle-length wide-legs, ballet flats aren't going anywhere for autumn/winter. Opt for structured styles with a slightly pointed toe, like The Row and Toteme, for a modern twist on the classic rounded-toe shoe.
Mango Leather ballet flats with bow
Charles & Keith Emiko Satin Bow Mary Jane Flats
Clogs
If we learnt anything from Chemena Kamali's new vision for Chloé, it's that clogs are set to become a trans-seasonal staple. Whether towering like on her AW24 front row or with lower-wooden heels, the shoe will keep you high and dry. The seventies-inspired shoe looks best with denim and tactile fabrics like suede, and corduroy for a full bohemian effect.
Chloe Jeannette leather platform clogs
Cult Trainers
For a sporty, casual vibe, nothing beats a cult trainer. Whether it's Adidas by Wales Bonner Samba, a classic Nike Cortez, a colourful Salomon XT 6 or a chunkier GANNI x New Balance, trainers add a touch of athleisure. Perfect with baggy cargo trousers, wide-leg jeans, or even tailored trousers for a cool, off-duty look.
New Balance 1906r Trainers
Adidas x Wales Bonner Superstar Sneaker
Salomon Xt-6 Low-Top Sneakers
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