Curious what shoes to wear with wide leg pants? Wonder no more

It’s usually good practice to avoid extremes in fashion. This makes it much easier to keep your capsule wardrobe ‘timeless’. At the very least, it’ll ensure you won’t be cringing quite so hard at old photographs of yourself in 20 years’ time. However, we’re willing to make an exception where wide leg pants are concerned. They’ve always been a bold move, but they’ve always looked good… provided they’re styled correctly. The trouble is that a lot of men trip up when it comes to deciding what shoes to wear with wide leg pants. Let’s attempt to fix that.

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Are wide leg pants in style?

Wide leg pants are no flash-in-the-pan trend. Though they might seem like a nod to past eras, they’ve been redefined for today’s style-conscious man. While the late 2000s were the peak of skinny jeans, today’s runways favour a more relaxed, flowing silhouette that blends comfort with modern appeal.

Spring/Summer 2024 collections from top designers have made it clear that wide leg pants are here to stay. This fit flatters nearly any body type and offers a refreshing break from more conventional styles.

What shoes to wear with wide leg pants

Pairing wide leg pants with the right shoes can make all the difference. Below, we break down seven of the best casual footwear styles to balance the relaxed fit of wide leg pants.

Low-profile sneakers

Low-profile sneakers add a sleek touch to wide leg pants, creating a stylish contrast with the pants’ relaxed silhouette. Look at models like the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66, Adidas Gazelle, or Nike Cortez. Minimalist sneakers like those from Common Projects, Thousand Fell and JAK also work well. These sneakers are trending for their retro appeal and slim shape, pairing effortlessly with wide leg pants to create a clean, modern look.

Chunky sneakers

For those who prefer a balanced silhouette, chunky sneakers are a natural choice. Their bulkier design complements the width of wide leg pants, creating harmony in the overall look. Sneakers like the New Balance 990 or cushioned running styles from Hoka (remember to check the sizing guide) work well here, adding visual weight to match the pants’ relaxed cut. Chunky sneakers aren’t just comfortable; they’re stylish and durable, making them a smart option for pairing with wide leg pants.

Chunky derbies

When it’s time to add a touch of sophistication, chunky Derbies are a standout option. Forget slim-fitting dress shoes; choose something weightier with Goodyear welted soles and commando treads. The Paraboot Michael is a great choice if you’re after durability and polish, while Kleman offers a more budget-friendly alternative. Chunky Derbies give wide leg pants an elegant but grounded feel, making them perfect for both smart and casual occasions. Add a tucked-in shirt, and you’re ready for anything.

Lace-up work boots

For a rugged, casual look, lace-up work boots like the Red Wing Moc Toe are an ideal match for wide leg pants. The boots’ sturdy design and iconic style balance the oversized pants, grounding the look with a bit of edge. Work boots offer durability, style, and a hint of rebellion, making them perfect for pairing with flannel or a cozy sweater. The combination of wide leg pants and work boots feels authentic and effortlessly cool.

Lug-sole loafers

Lug-sole loafers offer an elegant yet modern alternative, bringing sophistication with an edge. These loafers keep the traditional shape but add a contemporary twist with a chunky sole. They’re a great match for wide leg pants, bridging classic and modern aesthetics. Lug-sole loafers work with a range of outfits, from tailored trousers to more relaxed fits, making them ideal for both smart-casual outfits and work wear. They add just the right amount of sophistication to wide leg pants.

Trail runners

Trail runners are a practical yet stylish choice for wide leg pants. Originally designed for the outdoors, they bring a functional, urban edge to the look. Comfortable and durable, trail runners pair effortlessly with wide leg pants, adding a bit of streetwear flair. Asics and Salomon offer stylish options that elevate this pairing, helping to cement this type of footwear in men's fashion.

Canvas high-tops

Classic canvas high-tops like the Converse Chuck Taylor are another versatile option for wide leg pants. With a slim profile and retro appeal, high-tops add a casual vibe that pairs well with the flowy fit of wide leg pants. Go for neutral colours like black, white, or beige to keep it classic, or add a pop of colour for a playful twist. Canvas high-tops work well with nearly any casual outfit, giving you a laid-back, timeless look.

Wide leg pants styling dos and don'ts

Do make sure they’re hemmed correctly

A good hem is crucial for wide leg pants. When they’re hemmed correctly, wide leg pants create a streamlined, well-balanced look, falling just above the shoes without excess fabric. Too long, and the fabric will bunch up awkwardly or drag on the ground, throwing off the silhouette. If you prefer a cropped look, aim for an inch or two above the ankle to maintain a tailored appearance. A proper hem enhances the look of the pants, making them appear intentional and well-fitted.

Don’t wear pointy shoes

Pointy shoes are best avoided with wide leg pants, as the slim, angular shape doesn’t complement the pants’ relaxed volume. The sharp toes can create an unbalanced look, drawing too much attention to the feet and clashing with the wide leg cut. Instead, go for rounded or square-toed shoes, which visually anchor the pants and keep the outfit looking cohesive. This choice maintains the balance between the pant’s broad silhouette and the overall style of your outfit.

Do wear slightly cropped, boxy tops and outerwear

Wide leg pants pair best with slightly cropped, boxy tops or outerwear. A shorter length helps create definition by emphasizing the waistline, which balances out the loose fit of the pants. The boxy cut brings a structured shape to the top half of the body, while the cropped length keeps the proportions in check. This approach adds a modern edge to your look and keeps the outfit visually balanced, helping you avoid a shapeless or oversized appearance.

Don’t wear structured blazers

Structured blazers don’t pair well with wide leg pants, as their tailored lines clash with the pants’ relaxed silhouette. A stiff, fitted blazer can make the outfit feel too formal or awkwardly mismatched. Instead, choose an unstructured or slightly oversized blazer that has softer lines, aligning better with the laid-back feel of wide leg pants. The lack of rigid structure in the blazer allows for a more harmonious silhouette that moves comfortably while still appearing stylish and put-together.

Do go easy on accessories

Wide leg pants make a statement on their own, so it’s best to keep accessories minimal. Over-accessorising can clutter the look, distracting from the clean lines and flow of the pants. Simple pieces like a dress watch or a discreet chain will add polish without overpowering the outfit. Less is often more with wide leg pants, as letting the pants stand out ensures a more cohesive and stylish appearance, keeping the overall look refined and balanced.

Don’t ignore layering proportions

Layering with wide leg pants can be tricky, as you’ll need to consider the proportions of each piece carefully. Avoid bulky or oversized layers that could make the outfit look shapeless or bottom-heavy. Instead, choose slim or cropped layering pieces that accentuate the waist and create a balanced silhouette. Think tailored jackets, long coats, or snug sweaters that add structure and definition to the upper body without clashing with the volume of the pants. This mindful approach to layering enhances the outfit’s overall harmony.

Now take a look at some of the best casual shoes for men.

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