Yes, high-rise jeans are making a comeback—pair them with these shoes to appear trendy rather than outdated.
In my opinion, high-waisted jeans were never truly out of style. However, when the Y2K phenomenon captured the cultural imagination a few years back, low-rise jeans made a significant comeback, overshadowing their more classic and sophisticated counterpart. Jeans that fastened at the waist instead of the hips were put aside—donated or, if their owners were somewhat foresighted, simply tucked away for future use—while trendier options took their place. Fortunately for those of us who have remained committed to this denim style, the resurgence of high rises is happening sooner than I anticipated, and this spring and summer, indications point to a full comeback, meaning it’s time to start strategizing.
The key factor to consider when a new or revived denim shape emerges is the footwear that best complements it. While tops can generally be paired with jeans without issue, getting the shoes right is trickier, as heel heights, toe shapes, colors, and materials all play a role. Choosing the wrong shoes can ruin your entire look. To make reintroducing high-waisted jeans into your wardrobe as seamless as possible, I did some research on Instagram to find the best shoe pairings for this upcoming denim silhouette. Scroll down to see the results of my findings, which means you can shop for the ideal shoes to wear with high-waisted jeans in 2026.
**Best Shoes to Wear with High-Waisted Jeans**
**High-Waisted Jeans + Flip-Flops**
During the spring and summer, you can't go wrong with high-waisted vintage jeans and classic flip-flops. This combination is comfortable, chic, and effortless—a perfect trio for a warm day.
**High-Waisted Jeans + Heeled Ankle Boots**
When choosing a longer inseam, it’s essential to wear heels to prevent awkward bunching at the jeans' hems. A round-toe pump or mule works well, but ankle boots are the best choice.
**High-Waisted Jeans + Ballet Flats**
When uncertain, pairing high-waisted jeans with ballet flats is always a wise decision. This timeless, French girl-approved option is suitable for any daytime occasion. Tip: To stay ahead of the curve in 2026, go for brown jeans, one of the year’s top denim trends.
**High-Waisted Jeans + Strappy Heeled Sandals**
For an easy transition from day to night, match dark or indigo high-waisted jeans with a slightly bootcut shape and simple, strappy sandals. You'll look elegant without having to overthink your outfit.
**High-Waisted Jeans + Slingback Flats**
Slingback flats, akin to traditional ballet flats, offer a slightly more refined appearance that can elevate your denim ensemble. The secret to wearing them with high-waisted jeans is to choose a pair with a slight crop and a fitted, almost cigarette-like cut that resembles tailored trousers.
**High-Waisted Jeans + Peep-Toe Wedges**
Currently, peep-toe wedges are a trendy choice being sported by many fashion-forward individuals, and they look fantastic with high-waisted jeans. This combination is unbeatable and sure to garner compliments from everyone around you.
**High-Waisted Jeans + Loafers**
Styling loafers with jeans can be challenging since the right denim shape is crucial to prevent looking shorter. My tip after years of experimentation? Choose very straight, high-waisted vintage-wash jeans that don't bunch at the ankle, paired with soft, low-profile loafers.
**High-Waisted Jeans + Heeled Slide Sandals**
A kitten-heeled slide sandal is arguably the top shoe choice for high-waisted jeans during spring and summer. Don’t overthink it—the pairing just works seamlessly with any top or lightweight jacket you choose.
**High-Waisted Jeans + Western Boots**
For a chic, Ralph Lauren-inspired Western denim look, pair a khaki-colored high-waisted jean with ankle boots that have a subtle Western touch. It's best to avoid actual cowboy boots; instead, go for a style that gently hints at Western aesthetics.
**High-Waisted Jeans + Heeled Thong Sandals**
Lastly, my personal favorite footwear to wear with high-waisted jeans are heeled thong sandals. They combine the comfort of flip-flops with the elegance of strappy sandals in a single minimalist design.
Other articles
The Revamped Summer Essentials Fashion Trends for 2026
Boatneck tank tops, vibrant tops, capri pants, knee-length skirts, and additional options.
The Art of Airport Style: A Veteran Editor Shares Why She Continues to Dress Up for Air Travel—and Tips on How to Achieve It
Although there may not be any paparazzi at the end of the jet bridge, I still step off the plane as if there are, explains Chrissy Rutherford.
We’re Fashion Editors—Here are the Outdated Summer Dress Trends We’re Moving On From in 2026.
Explore the trends we're sporting instead.
Ditch Your Sneakers: These 6 Looks Show That Heels Are Far More Stylish for Spring
Kitten heels, slingbacks, mules, and stilettos are making a comeback.
Out of nowhere, all the trendy people are sporting sun-faded jeans—here's how to style them this spring.
The denim trend that everyone fashionable is embracing right now? Sun-faded jeans. Here’s how to achieve the understated, worn-in appearance for spring.
Suddenly, everyone stylish is sporting sun-faded jeans—here's how to style them this spring.
The current denim trend that everyone fashionable is embracing? Sun-faded jeans. Here's how to incorporate the understated, worn-in appearance for the spring season.
Yes, high-rise jeans are making a comeback—pair them with these shoes to appear trendy rather than outdated.
In Paris, New York City, and beyond, stylish girls are reviving high-waisted jeans and pairing them with these footwear trends in 2026.