Sandals and jeans are a classic warm weather combination that can work for both casual daytime looks and dressed up nighttime outfits. The key to pulling off this style successfully is finding the right balance between casually relaxed and fashionably chic. Here are some tips on how to wear sandals with jeans for any occasion:
Choose The Right Sandal Style
Flat sandals - These versatile sandals pair well with all jean styles from skinny jeans to boyfriend jeans. Opt for simple leather designs in metallic, neutral or bold colors. Avoid sporty rubber styles for a sleeker look.
Wedges or espadrilles - These add subtle height and elongate the legline. Go for cork or rope wedges with casual denim for daytime or espadrilles with slimmer jeans and a nice top for evenings out.
Dress sandals - Leather gladiator, t-strap or ankle strap sandals look chic with cuffed skinny jeans or bootcut jeans. Metallic or snake skin textures make them appropriate for dressier occasions too.
Birkenstocks - The ultimate laidback sandal, Birkenstocks complement wide leg jeans or distressed boyfriend jeans perfectly. Stick to neutral leathers and minimalist strapping for a sophisticated take.
Choose The Right Jean Style
Skinny jeans - Pair with just about any sandal style for a trendy look. Cuff them to show off some ankle and create balance with the slim cut. Dark washes are most versatile.
Bootcut or wide leg jeans - The extra volume on the bottom balances out flatter sandal silhouettes like flats or thong styles. Light denim washes keep it casual.
Boyfriend jeans - Cuff them to avoid bunching around the ankles. Opt for minimal leather flats or casual sporty styles. Distressed washes enhance the relaxed vibe.
Shorts - Go for a 4-6 inch inseam to show some leg. Tailored Bermuda shorts look sharp with leather sandals. Denim cutoffs keep it casual with Birkenstocks.
Mind The Length
Wear jeans that hit at mid-ankle or higher to keep things streamlined and let the sandals shine. Going longer bunches up awkwardly.
For maxi length dresses or wide leg pants, choose flat or low wedge sandals to avoid looking weighed down.
With shorts, opt for an inseam that hits just above the knee or higher so your legs don't look stubby.
Pair With The Right Tops
Tanks and tees - Simple ribbed tanks or short sleeve tees balance casual bottoms. Tuck in a fitted tank for a polished touch.
Tunics and flowy blouses - Light tops provide contrast to skinny jeans. Tuck one side in loosely over wider leg jeans.
Cropped tops - Show some midriff with high waisted skinny jeans or shorts. Avoid ultra cropped lengths that bare too much skin.
Polos - Collared knit tops add preppy flair. Pop the collar over a tee or tanks for laidback style.
Add The Finishing Touches
Belt it - Cinch in baggy jeans or shorts with a classic leather, rope or fabric belt. Coordinate with your sandals for a pulled together look.
Layer jewelry - Stacked bangles, chained necklaces and hoop earrings complement the casual vibe. Mix metals for visual interest.
Grab a hat - Finish the look with a straw fedora, floppy sunhat or baseball cap. It gives casual outfits extra polish.
Carry a crossbody bag - Go hands-free with a leather crossbody in a fun color or print. It suits the relaxed sandal and jean aesthetic.
Conclusion
Sandals and jeans make an easy, comfortable pairing for warm weather looks. Follow these guidelines on choosing complementary styles, proportions and extras to nail this perennially stylish combination. With the right balance of polished and carefree, you can wear sandals with jeans for any casual occasion from day to night.
