Fashion enthusiasts are favoring "sarouel" trousers—here are the shoes that pair best with them.
I recall first noticing the trend of sarouel trousers early last year when some of my favorite gorpcore influencers began wearing the Snow Peak gather pants. With their voluminous design and dynamic movement, they introduced a fresh silhouette to some of fashion's preferred pieces, ranging from Salomon sneakers to technical jackets. It didn't take long for this trouser style to be embraced by other fashion tribes, and as of today, they rank among the most sought-after trousers for summer, competing with barrel-leg and bloomer styles for the top spot.
When a new trouser silhouette emerges, one of the initial challenges we encounter is determining which shoes pair best with them. I jumped on this trend as soon as possible but found myself gravitating towards trainers, as that was my usual styling reference. Through some trial and error, along with experimenting with sarouel trousers in various fabrics and colors, I managed to devise some reliable combinations that will carry me and my favorite trousers through the summer season.
Therefore, whether you're new to the sarouel trouser trend or looking to expand your style horizons, I've put together a selection of the best shoes to wear with them. Keep reading to discover more.
1. Thong Sandals
Style Notes: This season's flip-flop trend seems to complement nearly every item of clothing, and sarouel trousers are no exception. The blend of exaggerated volume with understated minimalism works beautifully together, allowing for creative color and texture pairings. You can mix linen with leather or jersey with jelly—the choices are endless.
Shop Thong Sandals:
H&M
Semi-Transparent Flip-Flops
A perfect match for the jelly shoe trend.
ZARA
Flat Leather Sandals
If you only get one pair of sandals this season, let it be classic black flip-flops.
ALAÏA
Invisible Jelly Satin-Trimmed Sandals
Alaïa always brings a unique touch.
Reformation
Jessie Thong Sandal
Two-tone flip-flops are trending everywhere.
M&S
Leather Ankle Strap Flatform Toe Post Sandals
A work-appropriate choice.
2. Ballet Sneakers
Style Notes: If you're seeking a feminine athleisure vibe, ballet sneakers are the way to go. They capture that original gorpcore essence without the bulk of trainers, offering a sleek silhouette that highlights the volume of the trousers.
Shop Sneakerinas:
COS
Suede-Nylon Mary-Jane Trainers
& Other Stories
Adidas Tokyo Mj Shoes
Also comes in baby blue.
Chloé
Chloé Kick metallic leather flats
JW PEI
JW PEI Caitlin Lace Up Ballet Flats in Beige
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico 66 Tgrs
3. Strappy Heels
Style Notes: Elevate your sarouel trousers with a pair of strappy heeled sandals. The key is to keep it minimal since the trouser silhouette should be the focal point, so opt for a sleek design with delicate straps.
Shop Strappy Heels:
& Other Stories
Leather Ring Sandals
Select a tapered heel for added comfort.
MANGO
Kitten Heel Sandals With Straps
Perfect for special occasions.
Massimo Dutti
Low-Heel Leather Sandal
4. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: A versatile option that beautifully complements everything we love about sarouel trousers. Given the unique shape of the trousers, you can afford to choose bolder ballet flats. Whether it's metallics, embellishments, square toes, or lace-up styles, the more eye-catching, the better.
Shop Ballet Flats:
ME+EM
Square Toe Ballet Flat
Crafted from the finest leather.
Gucci
Gucci Horsebit Ballet Flat
Toteme
Slip Naplack Ballerinas
Butter yellow is here to stay.
Sezane
Agathe Low Ballerinas
A favorite among fashion editors.
Parfois
Leather Ballet Flats With Elastic
5. Heeled Pumps
Style Notes: Classic heels are resurfacing, and there’s no better way to incorporate them into your 2026 wardrobe than with this season’s trousers. Aim for a sleek shape while exploring unique textures like mesh or satin and distinctive heel designs.
Shop Heeled Pumps:
John Lewis
Angel Leather Embellished Kitten Heel Court Shoes
Embellished accessories are a major trend this season.
Toteme
Contour Nappa Pumps
Whistles
Matilda Block Heel Shoe
Charles & Keith
Satin Ruched Stiletto Slingback Pumps
Still infatuated with the mesh shoe trend.
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