Cropped jeans are the epitome of versatile style. Whether it's for casual outings, work, or a night out, these ankle-length jeans can be paired with just about any type of shoe. Inspired by the iconic look of Audrey Hepburn's short, slim-fitting pants from the 1950s, cropped jeans have become a timeless fashion statement.
What are cropped jeans?
Cropped jeans are universally flattering denim pants that stop at or above the ankle. They differ from capri pants, which stop higher up on the calf. For the most flattering look, opt for slim-fitting jeans that rest at the narrowest spot on your ankle. There are various styles of cropped jeans, including skinny jeans, crop flares, straight jeans, wide-leg crops, and boyfriend jeans.
Photo Credits, Top Left to Right: Loft, Gap, Levi’s, Front Left to Right: Everlane, J.Crew Factory
Skinny jeans are tapered and slim-fitting from the knee down. Crop flares or kick crop flares stop at or above the ankle with a slight flare at the hem. They are ideal for those with wider hips, as the flare helps balance out the width. Straight jeans, on the other hand, are straight from the knee down and come in both tapered and non-tapered versions. Wide-leg crop jeans have a fitted waist and hips, with a wide leg from the hip down, stopping at or above the ankle. Boyfriend jeans are looser fitting and cuffed, giving off a relaxed and easy look.
Casual shoes with cropped jeans
When it comes to casual outings, the options for pairing shoes with cropped jeans are endless. Here are some stylish combinations to consider:
Crop flare jeans with leather flip flops
For a quick and easy look on hot summer days, try pairing crop flare jeans with leather flip flops . These elevated flip-flops are a step up from your usual rubber ones. Combine them with a white tank crop top, and you'll have a chic and effortless outfit.
Straight jeans with flat sandals with ankle straps
To achieve a polished look, go for black ankle strap sandals with straight jeans. This combination is both sophisticated and trendy. The ankle straps add a stylish touch and elongate your legs.
Wide leg cropped pants with ankle wrap sandals
Ankle wrap sandals are a surprisingly great match for wide leg cropped pants. While still on the hunt for the perfect pair of wide leg cropped jeans, experiment with different shoe styles. You'll be amazed at how well ankle wrap sandals complement this unique look.
Crop flare jeans with toe wrap Birkenstock dupes
When comfort is key, opt for toe wrap Birkenstock dupes. These super comfy sandals are perfect for long days of walking. Pair them with white crop flare jeans and a graphic tee for a fresh and relaxed spring or summer outfit.
Crop flare jeans with slides
For a chic and effortless all-black look, try wearing crop flare jeans with black slides. The column of black creates a sleek silhouette, while the slides provide a casual touch. Add a thin matching belt for visual contrast and interest.
Straight leg jeans with white sneakers
White leather Stan Smith sneakers are a perfect match for classic straight jeans. When choosing jeans, aim for a length that hits just above the ankle. The clean and simple look of the sneakers complements the timeless appeal of straight jeans.
Boyfriend jeans with white sneakers
Boyfriend jeans offer a relaxed and loose fit. Pair them with white slim Tretorn tennis shoes for a sporty look. This combination strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style.
Crop flare jeans with black Adidas tennis shoes
Create a sporty street look by pairing black Adidas tennis shoes with crop flare jeans. Add a simple tee, a brown leather jacket, and a black tote bag worn as a crossbody to elevate the outfit. Matching your shoes to your pants or jeans helps elongate your legs.
Straight jeans with ankle-wrap clogs
Ankle-wrap clogs add an earthy Boho vibe to any outfit. When paired with crop flare jeans and a cream embroidered Boho blouse, they create a trendy and laid-back look. The cropped jeans allow the details of the clogs to shine.
Straight jeans with cap toe flats
Cap toe flats are timeless classics that effortlessly complement straight jeans. The black soft cardigan sweater, worn buttoned up like a top, connects with the black cap toe. Add a neutral tan bag to tie the whole look together.
Skinny jeans with Madewell mules
For a fashionable look, try pairing dark blue skinny jeans with Madewell mules. These brown mules perfectly complement the deep blue denim and can also be worn with black cropped pants. The streamlined toe and low stacked heel strike the perfect balance between slim and chunky.
Straight jeans with chunky black loafers
Step up your style game with chunky black patent leather loafers. These unexpected statement shoes add visual interest to your outfit. Pair them with Levi's classic straight jeans for a preppy and polished look.
Straight jeans with tan loafers
Tan loafers are a versatile option that goes well with many outfits. Pair them with straight jeans and a button-up shirt for a timeless and sophisticated look. The simplicity of this combination allows the loafers to shine.
Work shoes with cropped jeans
If your dress code allows jeans in a professional setting, here are some shoe options to wear with cropped jeans for a polished office look:
Straight jeans with pointy-toe flats
Pointy-toe flats are a great choice for pairing with cropped straight jeans at work. The pointed toe adds a touch of sophistication and elongates the leg line. Opt for flats with a pointed toe for a more elevated feel compared to almond-shaped flats.
Straight jeans with tassel loafer mules
For a polished and preppy look, try slip-on tassel loafer mules with straight jeans. The polished finish of these loafers adds sophistication to your outfit, making it suitable for the office.
Straight jeans with cap-toe flats
Cap-toe flats are classic and versatile, making them a perfect choice for the office. Pair them with straight cropped jeans for a professional yet stylish look.
Skinny jeans with black chunky loafers
Black chunky patent leather loafers add a touch of visual interest to your work ensemble. These unexpected shoes will elevate your outfit and make a statement in the office.
Date night and going out shoes with cropped jeans
When it comes to date night or a night out, cropped jeans can be dressed up with a shoe with a bit of a heel. Here are some stylish options:
Straight jeans with ankle-wrap espadrilles
Ankle-wrap espadrilles are a perfect choice for a romantic date night. The jeans' shorter length allows the ankle wrap to shine, adding a cute and feminine touch to your outfit. The heel gives the look a dressier vibe.
Straight jeans with black pointy-toe heels
For a sophisticated and elevated look on date night, opt for black pointy-toe pumps with straight jeans. The pointed toe elongates the leg line, creating a sleek and chic silhouette.
Straight jeans with brown pointy-toe heels
For a touch of warmth and sophistication, pair straight jeans with brown suede pointy-toe heels. These heels perfectly complement the deep blue denim and can be dressed up or down for various occasions.
Straight jeans with platform ankle-wrap sandals
If you prefer a chunkier heel, platform ankle-wrap sandals are a great option. These sandals offer both style and comfort, with their substantial heel and ankle wrap. Pair them with straight jeans for a trendy and fashionable look.
Can you wear ankle boots with cropped jeans?
Absolutely! Cropped jeans are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various types of ankle boots. The choice of boots depends on whether your jeans are tapered or straight.
If you have tapered jeans that hug the ankle, opt for ankle boots that fit snugly like sock boots. This way, the hem of the jeans will fit neatly over the top of the boots. Skinny jeans typically work best with low-shaft ankle booties.
For straight and crop flare jeans, you have more flexibility in choosing ankle boots. Just make sure the hem of the pant leg stops no more than an inch or two above the top of your boot to avoid a high-water effect and keep your legs looking longer.
Here are some stylish combinations to try:
Girlfriend pants with black sock boots
Girlfriend pants, which are a cross between pants and jeans with a tapered rolled cuff, pair perfectly with sock boots. The fitted shaft of the boots allows them to fit snugly under the hem of the tapered pants. This combination creates a trendy and fashionable look.
Skinny jeans with low-shaft ankle bootie
Styling skinny jeans with ankle boots can be tricky due to the tight fit at the ankle. Opt for low-shaft ankle boots that stop low on the ankle. This combination creates a sleek and polished look without any fuss.
Straight jeans with flat ankle boots
Flat ankle boots are a classic choice that pairs well with straight jeans. The hem of the jeans easily fits over the shaft of the boots for a simple yet stylish look. For more guidance on wearing different types of ankle boots with straight jeans, check out my post on how to easily wear ankle boots with straight leg jeans.
Straight jeans with heeled ankle boots
Heeled ankle boots are a versatile option that works well with straight jeans. The hem of the jeans should come to the top of the boots or end no more than an inch or two above for an elongated and stylish look. Achieve a trendy and elevated vibe by pairing them together.
Crop flare jeans with black platform Chelsea boots
When wearing black boots with black cropped jeans, your leg line is extended down to the tip of your shoes. Opt for flat chunky lug sole black Chelsea boots or platform Chelsea boots with a chunky heel. This choice adds height and ensures a proportional look.
Cropped jeans offer endless possibilities when it comes to footwear. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your own unique style. Whether you're dressing up or going for a casual look, there's a perfect shoe out there to complement your cropped jeans. Have fun exploring different combinations and enjoy the versatility of this timeless fashion staple.
SHOP THE JEANS
Looking for more resources on wearing ankle boots with jeans? Check out my other articles on the topic:
- How to Wear Ankle Boots with Skinny Jeans + 8 Looks
- How to Easily Wear Ankle Boots with Straight Leg Jeans
- 22 Easy Outfits: How to Wear Ankle Boots Over 40
- How to Wear Ankle Boots + Booties With Jeans (10 Looks)
- 12 Best Tips: How to Wear Socks with Ankle Boots
- 19 Flattering Ways to Wear Flat Ankle Boots With Jeans
