Like all great dishes, you’re going to want to start with quality ingredients. In this instance, we’re talking about jeans and sandals that get better the more you wear them (think: denim and leather that develop perfect patinas by the season’s end). Once you’ve got those, all you need are a few foolproof pairings that’ll take you from spring to summer without too much trickery. Here, our top three combos.
SLEEK SKINNIES + MULTISTRAP D’ORSAYS
Ingredients:
A multistrap sandal (bonus points for a hint of heel)
How and why to do it:
You’re going to look for a jean that’s full length, meaning it will hit just at your ankle (no more, no less). The sleek sandal mirrors the streamlined silhouette of the jean, while adding a much needed bit of pop: graphic stripes via those straps. So while the look is clean and feminine, it’s got a bit of punch.
TIMELESS STRAIGHT-LEGS + GLADIATORS
Ingredients:
How and why to do it:
Choose a slightly cropped inseam—the gladiator’s wider, flatter shape will be offset by the flash of your ankle (aka the tiniest part of your leg). This style of sandal has been a favorite forever—and a straight-leg jean? Same. Pairing two classics is a pretty foolproof move.
RIPPED HEMS + BLOCK HEELS
Ingredients:
Cropped jeans with a dropped or chopped hem
How and why to do it:
Nothing like the contrast between a raw undone hem and a polished heel—there’s something just so right in the disparity. Choose a jean that hits above the ankle to really let the shoe have its moment. A lower heel (we’re currently loving one with a block style) keeps the look fuss-free—and comfier too.
Like these pairings? Go ahead and give them a try. Shop all shoes here and our latest jeans here.
Madewell 