I treat the months of January and February as a sort of style hibernation. It’s cold, so you want to pile on your warmest, which might not be your most stylish, garments. You don’t want to wear anything too delicate for fear it could get ruined by snow, ice, and wind. And chances are you’re just staying home more and sporting comfy loungewear. As we slog through the rest of February, there are hopeful signs that spring is near. While the weather shifts and snow boots give way to more fun footwear, you may be wondering, what are the best shoes to wear with jeans? Or maybe that’s just me. But as I prepare for the transition from winter to spring, I’m looking to rethink my footwear and denim combos. Here are a few styles and pairings I’m considering.
First up, chunky loafers. I’m a huge fan of the G. H. Bass Weejun for both men and women, but any thick-soled loafer pairs well with cropped or ankle-length jeans this spring. One fun way to channel the 90’s resurgence trend with a loafer is by adding a white sock and topping off the look with a chunky sweater. On warmer days, if you prefer the no-sock look but don’t want to stink up this dressier shoe, utilize no-show socks, like those from Invisasox. You can also play up the menswear inspiration of this footwear by styling with a button-down, blazer, or trench coat.
On chillier days, when you’re looking for more coverage with a straight or wide-leg jeans, consider Chelsea-style boots. Worn with a tucked-in turtleneck, belt, and midweight jacket, a waterproof pair like Sam Edelman’s Laguna boot is perfect for our typical wet springs. If you can also find a boot with an extra-thick sole, then you’ll be able to keep your jeans dry as you’re dodging puddles. Another practical boot option is square-toe boots. Whether knee-high, ankle, or cowboy, a well-defined toe poking from the hem of a flared or wide-legged jean definitely makes a statement giving off a 70’s sort of style vibe.
As the weather continues to turn with May flowers poking up after April showers, give your boots a break by sporting a sneaker. White sneakers are a wardrobe essential and can be worn with any style of jeans. I prefer a chunkier soled trainer, like a classic Nike with the decorative swoop, wearing it with a relaxed fit jean, rolled a few times, striped shirt, and cardigan. And if the stripes can match the swoop color, all the better. For a more minimal take, there are the Stan Smith Adidas shoes that are all white with a thinner sole. Wear these kicks as part of a “Canadian tuxedo” outfit with faded skinnies and a chambray shirt.
Another interesting shoe choice for spring are clogs. Now, I know this slip-on shoe can be controversial, looking at you Crocs; however, not all clogs are created equal. There are your classic wooden sole clogs like those from Dr. Scholl’s. There are sling-back clogs courtesy of Anthropologie for klutzes like me. There are Birkenstock flat clogs, as well as platform heel clogs from Candie’s if you can find a vintage pair on a resale site. I like the idea of clogs as a transition shoe; they let your feet slowly come out of winter hibernation without requiring a pedicure. Plus, they look great with straight-legged, raw-hemmed jeans and a v-neck sweater. I’d also recommend your clog of choice with a denim skirt as spring rolls into summer.
Hopefully, you’re planning on trying one or all of these shoe and jean pairings to help alleviate the style hibernation dull drums of winter. What’s even more exciting than footwear and denim styles is that these shoe types are extremely versatile and can be worn with a range of other items beyond jeans. The shoesibilities (that’s a mash-up of shoe and possibilities) are endless!
