Grey jeans are currently in style—here are five of the most fashionable shoes to pair with them.
In case you haven't heard, grey jeans are experiencing a resurgence. Entering a landscape predominantly occupied by black and blue, the shade favored by Kate Moss during her 2010 It-girl period has been revived by Gen Z. However, these are not the "indie sleaze" skinny greys of the past; for fall/winter 2025, grey jeans are emerging as a truly refined neutral. They provide the same versatility, timelessness, and chic uplift as their more classic counterparts, but I believe grey denim possesses a cooler vibe.
As a fashion editor who has a passion for jeans, it has always seemed obvious to have a pair of grey jeans in my wardrobe. Yet, there have been times when I found myself questioning: What shoes should I wear with grey jeans? Initially, I aimed to embody the essence of a laid-back model in a Zoë Kravitz or Laura Harrier style, but when I looked in the mirror, my jeans-and-shoes pairing came off as bland instead of effortlessly stylish.
So, I did what I often do when faced with a fashion dilemma: I turned to Instagram for inspiration and quickly realized that, similar to classic colors, the shade of grey jeans is significant. Darker greys appear inherently more polished and can be paired with sneakers or biker boots for a casual look, while lighter washes have a more whimsical quality that can be elevated with quilted ballet flats.
After a bit of research for ideas, I discovered that selecting the appropriate footwear to pair with grey jeans is not as challenging as I first thought. Naturally, I'm happy to share my findings. Continue reading to explore the five types of shoes I believe are the best match for your grey denim this winter.
5 Shoes to Wear With Grey Jeans This Winter
1. Loafers
Style Notes: If your aim is to look chic while feeling comfortable, loafers are a perfect choice. Whether flat or chunky-soled, this preppy style adds a polished element to nearly any type of bottoms, and they consistently work well with grey jeans. For a cohesive look, consider a black pair to ensure your outfit transitions smoothly throughout the day.
Shop the Look:
- ARKET Alpaca-Wool Blend Jumper
- Abercrombie & Fitch High Rise Vintage Straight Jean
- Jigsaw Double Faced Button Up Coat in Black (Consider sizing up for a looser fit.)
- Miu Miu Vintage-Effect Leather Penny Loafers
2. Heeled Boots
Style Notes: If you're a reader of Who What Wear UK, you know we have a fondness for heeled boots. They're versatile and timeless; the easiest way to elevate the slightly more casual grey denim is by pairing it with heeled boots, whether they feature a kitten heel, block heel, or stiletto for a dressier occasion. Grey pairs well with virtually any color, allowing for bold choices in footwear for maximum impact.
Shop the Look:
- & Other Stories Striped Knit Sweater
- M&S Collection Cotton Rich Fitted Collared Shirt (If you're between sizes, I recommend sizing down.)
- M&S Collection Leather Kitten Heel Pointed Ankle Boots
- JACQUEMUS The Turismo Large Croc-Effect Suede Tote
3. Trainers
Style Notes: Brightly colored trainers can infuse character into even the most ordinary outfits, making them a comfortable and easy addition to your wardrobe. Keep the base of your outfit simple and add vibrant trainers, perhaps paired with a matching scarf. Personally, I'd opt for a bold red, as seen on Tia Dewitt.
Shop the Look:
- COS Chunky Cashmere Crew-Neck Jumper (Check it out quickly; this tan cashmere jumper is likely to sell out!)
- AGOLDE '90s Pinch Waist High-Rise Straight-Leg Organic Jeans
- The Frankie Shop Gaia Oversized Wool-Blend Coat (Fashion favorites adore its laid-back yet tailored structure in winter.)
- Puma Speedcat OG Trainers
- M&S Collection Slim Knitted Scarf
4. Biker Boots
Style Notes: The resurgence of biker boots may evoke a sense of nostalgia for 2015, but such is the nature of fashion. They bring a casual, almost effortlessly cool vibe to any outfit. When you want to look stylish without appearing overly dressed up, they are an ideal choice. Pair them with a structured leather jacket (bonus points for a funnel neck!) for a look that’s Instagram-ready.
Shop the Look:
- Print Clever Studio 54 Baby Tee (Print We Trust offers fantastic, unique graphic tees.)
- Free People We the Free Level Up Slit Slim Flare Jeans
- Free People Melrose Leather Belt (A bold buckle adds a striking touch to any outfit.)
- THE KOOPLES Black Leather Jacket (With ribbed sleeves and a funnel neck, it has an Acne Studios aesthetic.)
- Paris Texas Roxy Leather Biker Boots (
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