Sorry, I never pair these jeans with flats—these five denim and shoe combinations are more in style.
If you were to identify a few essential items in your wardrobe, chances are jeans and flats would be among them. This is certainly true for stylist and content creator Jen Andrews-Cater from Los Angeles, who runs @jenknowsbestblog. She states, "Flats are making a significant comeback, and honestly? Our feet deserve that. The secret to ensuring flats appear polished rather than frumpy lies in proportions, particularly with denim." Below, you'll discover five flat shoe trends Andrews-Cater is wearing in 2026 alongside the specific denim styles she pairs them with to achieve a chic look. She also highlighted outdated jeans she wouldn’t wear with these flats. Always remember to choose pieces that you love and that make you feel comfortable. Shopping recommendations are included if you’re considering adding a new pair of jeans or flats to your collection.
**The Best Flats to Wear with Jeans, According to Jen Andrews-Cater**
**Loafers**
*The vibe: polished and quietly powerful*
Loafers instantly bring structure to any outfit, making them best suited for denim that feels equally deliberate.
*Best jeans to wear with loafers:*
- *Straight-leg jeans:* A classic full-length straight leg that lightly grazes the top of the loafers looks timeless and refined.
- *Ankle-length kick-flare jeans:* The subtle flare balances the weight of loafers while revealing just enough ankle.
- *Cuffed vintage jeans:* A small cuff provides an effortless "styled, not trying" vibe.
*Avoid super-skinny jeans,* as they can make loafers seem heavy and outdated.
**BLACK SUEDE STUDIO**
Darlyn Leather Moccasins
**Levi's**
Ribcage Full Length Jeans
**Tony Bianco**
Gatsby Black Venice
**Jemina Denim**
Cuffed Wide Leg Jeans
**Jenni Kayne**
Leather Dylan Loafers
**High-Vamp Ballet Flats**
*The vibe: French, refined, subtly romantic*
High-vamp ballet flats, which cover more of the top of your foot, come off as more modern and less reminiscent of a "dance recital," making them surprisingly versatile.
*Best jeans to wear with ballet flats:*
- *Ankle-length straight jeans:* A clean ankle crop keeps the appearance light and balanced.
- *Slim-straight or cigarette jeans:* They are tailored without being tight through the legs, creating an "Audrey Hepburn meets 2026" silhouette.
- *Full-length wide-leg jeans:* The contrast between delicate flats and dramatic denim creates a fashion-forward aesthetic.
*Avoid heavy stacking at the ankle,* as it visually shortens the leg when wearing flat shoes.
**The Row**
Stella Leather Ballet Flats
**Citizens of Humanity**
Blaine High Waist Ankle Straight Leg Jeans
**LE MONDE BERYL**
Luna Crinkled-Leather Ballet Flats
**AGOLDE**
'90s Pinch Waist High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
**Madewell**
The Mylie Ballet Flats
**Flat Mules**
*The vibe: effortless, chic, "I just threw this on" (but you didn’t)*
Flat mules reveal a hint of heel, adding an airy touch. Fashion enthusiasts prefer denim that feels relaxed yet polished.
*Best jeans to wear with flat mules:*
- *Relaxed straight-leg jeans:* The slight slouch paired with open-back shoes comes off as effortlessly cool.
- *Cropped wide-leg jeans:* Exposing a bit of ankle keeps proportions up-to-date.
- *Raw-hem jeans:* The unfinished edge complements the laid-back nature of mules.
*Avoid ultra-long hems that drag,* as they obscure the shoes and detract from the point.
**Gap**
Low Rise '90s Loose Jeans
**Toteme**
Frayed Satin Lounge Slippers
**Vince**
Tevin Leather Mules
**Alex Mill**
The Bev Relaxed Jeans
**BLACK SUEDE STUDIO**
Puffy Knot Slide Sandals
**Clogs**
*The vibe: artsy, cozy, low-key cool*
Clogs possess weight and presence, thus requiring denim that can visually match their robust look.
*Best jeans to wear with clogs:*
- *Full-length wide-leg or flared jeans:* The volume contrasts well with the chunkiness of clogs.
- *Structured straight-leg jeans:* Opt for thicker denim rather than thin jegging fabric.
- *Ankle-grazing flared jeans:* A slight flare at the hem reflects the rounded shape of clogs.
*Avoid super-fitted skinny jeans,* as they accentuate the bulk of the shoes.
**THE ROW**
Hudson Suede Mules
**Bayeas**
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Sorry, I never pair these jeans with flats—these five denim and shoe combinations are more in style.
I strongly believe in these style tips.