It may be hard to believe, but skinny jeans are back. Thought to be a dead trend for years, the slender trousers are having a major revival this spring and summer.
But before you go all in on rediscovering the look, it might help to know what shoes go best with skinny jeans in 2025. Because, as we all know, it’s the shoe that really completes a look. (Even when you’re applying the wrong shoe theory.) Unlike wide-leg trousers, skinny jeans really put your footwear on display.
So which shoe styles are fashion insiders wearing to keep their skinny jeans looking fresh and modern? Let’s break it down.
The shoe styles that go best with skinny jeans in 2025
From casual to elegant and everything in between, there are a lot of versatile styling options for your skinny jeans this spring. But to ensure your outfit doesn’t look like a decade gone by, it’s all about the right shoes. These five styles give skinny trousers a more modern approach.
1. Skinny Jeans + Knee-High Boots
Knee-high boots and skinny jeans remain an absolute power duo that can deliver the perfect mix of chic and cool. They’re especially great for winter and early spring, as they can keep you warm in colder weather. Leather, suede or cowboy boots all work when styling this look — but to make your outfit more modern and squarely set in 2025, we recommend choosing neutral colours or monochrome looks to keep a long silhouette.
2. Skinny Jeans + Ballerinas
Ballerinas are the eternal classics that seem to never go out of fashion. And combined with skinny jeans, they create a harmonious look that is equal parts elegant and casual, regardless of whether you go with flats or a low-heel version. On colder spring days, ballet flats can also be cleverly combined with socks or sheer stockings.
3. Skinny Jeans + Over-the-Knee Boots
A big trend at the fall and winter 2024-2025 runways? Thigh-high boots that, as it so happens, go perfectly with tight trousers. They elongate the leg and are versatile enough that they can be combined with your skinny jeans and a blazer, an oversized sweater or a hoodie.
4. Skinny Jeans + Loafers
Loafers are the answer for anyone who loves that chic French-girl style. In terms of colour, almost anything goes, from classic black to earth tones. It’s the perfect choice for everyday wear, whether you’re headed to the office or a weekend brunch.
5. Skinny Jeans + Trainers
Of course, we all wore trainers with our skinny jeans the last time they were in fashion. But in 2025, the preferred trainer style has the cool retro vibes of racers like the Puma Speedcat. Whether you go for a basic white or black or something more colourful, these shoes are your most comfortable option to pair with your skinny jeans.
This story was previously published in Glamour Germany.