How To Style Loafers With Different Types of Jeans
There is something about the cool youthfulness of jeans and the relaxed sophistication of loafers that make them go so well together. However, as both loafers and jeans come in a wide array of colours and designs, creating the perfect pairing would take some consideration.
Below, we have provided a comprehensive guide on choosing the right kinds of loafers to complement different types of jeans. You will find loafer recommendations based on the fit, colour and wash of the jeans, so no matter your style preference, there is a tip in this article that will be useful for you!
Choosing the right loafers for different jean styles
When it comes to styling loafers with jeans, paying attention to the overall combination can help you pick pieces that will go well together.
Skinny Jeans
Since skinny jeans are a more form-fitting silhouette, the naturally complementary option would be a pair of penny loafers. The tapered style streamlines the silhouette further, creating a sleek and feminine look. However, if you prefer a contrasting combination, then choosing a chunkier loafer is another option — it will introduce visual heft to the look and create balance. Either way, for a better fit, you can either opt for a cropped pair of jeans or cuff them at the ankles.
Straight-leg Jeans
Straight-leg jeans offer a more relaxed fit than skinny jeans — they are a consistent width throughout the leg, which creates a balanced silhouette. The versatile style can be paired with most kinds of loafers, so it ultimately depends on the occasion and the look you are going for. Pairing straight-leg jeans with penny loafers create a polished, elevated look, while platform or lug-sole loafers feel edgier. If your straight-leg jeans are a bit too long in length, consider picking a pair with a slight heel to keep their hems off the ground.
Mom Jeans
Featuring a high waistline that sits relaxed around the waist but tapers down the leg, mom jeans are a popular option. The flattering silhouette lends itself well to many types of loafers, and the combination is effortless yet still looks put-together. Classic styles like penny loafers are failproof, but if you prefer a more casual option, loafer mules will work just as well.
Wide-leg Jeans
As its name implies, wide-leg jeans are a full-length silhouette that fit loosely around the legs. They typically go past the ankles, and some pairs might even pool at the bottom. They also go with most styles of loafers, but picking the right pair can help create a cohesive look. If you prefer a streetstyle aesthetic, then chunky, platform loafers are a good option, while classic almond-toe loafers are a better choice for put-together, office-appropriate looks. Depending on the length of your jeans, finding loafers with platform soles or heels can also prevent your jeans from overwhelming the entire outfit. Read our guide on the best shoes to pair with wide-leg pants.
Bootcut Jeans
Characterised by flared leg openings, bootcut jeans are a wide-fitting style. For a balanced look, sharper, pointed-toe loafers can help streamline the overall silhouette. Heeled or platform loafers are other suitable options, as they will add height and elongate the legs to create eye-pleasing proportions. To flaunt your loafers, consider opting for cropped bootcut jeans.
Cropped & Ankle-Length Jeans
Shorter in length than regular jeans, cropped jeans have hemlines that end just above the ankle. They would allow eye-catching shoes to take the spotlight. Try pairing them with loafers that have a printed or colourful finish — embellished loafers would also be a good choice. Alternatively, structured silhouettes will anchor the look.
Tips for styling loafers with jeans of different colours & washes
When styling jeans with loafers, it's important to consider their colour and wash. Ensuring these elements complement each other can really help pull your look together.
Mid-Wash Jeans
Sitting between light and dark washes, mid-wash jeans feature a medium-blue hue that is both neutral and versatile. They are commonly paired with light-coloured loafers, including shades like tan, white, beige and light grey. However, black loafers would also complement them beautifully. Your choice would depend on the overall aesthetic of your outfit, so exercising good judgment is key.
Avoid loafers in any shade of blue, as this colour-coordinated combination can come across as tacky.
Dark-Wash Jeans
Dark-wash jeans feature a deep, inky blue finish that exudes a sleek and sophisticated appeal. You can never go wrong styling them with polished dark loafers in shades like black, brown or burgundy. Choosing a pair with heeled loafers can further enhance the leg-lengthening effect of dark-wash jeans if that’s what you desire.
Avoid navy or very light brown loafers — the latter’s casualness may create an unflattering contrast.
Light-Wash Jeans
Exuding a casual, relaxed appeal, light-wash jeans pair well with bright, neutral-toned loafers in shades like beige, white and light brown. The austere aesthetic of dark-coloured loafers or the boldness of a glamorous metallic pair may clash with the laid-back nature of light-wash jeans.
Avoid pastel colours, as they can create a flat, one-dimensional look.
Black Jeans
Black jeans are a great choice for smart-casual events, especially when paired with elegant loafers. Opt for dark colours to maintain a polished, cohesive look. Loafers in black leather or suede work perfectly, offering both impeccable style and excellent quality.
Want to make the look more casual? Pair them with loafers in a lighter colour to create a visual contrast.
White Jeans
White jeans have a pristine and refined appearance. Due to their striking look, pairing them with black or dark-brown loafers creates an eye-catching, chic contrast. As with light-wash jeans, avoid pairing them with pastel colours for the same reason.
In conclusion, there is a perfect pair of loafers to go with any pair jeans — you just need to know how to put them together. Whether you are going for a more polished work-appropriate look or a cool-girl streetstyle aesthetic, pairing your jeans with the right kind of loafers can help you achieve your style objective.
We hope this guide has helped you gain a better understanding of how to style loafers with jeans of various cuts and colours, so you would be able to wear this evergreen combination with ease and confidence.