The Coolest Summer Denim-and-Shoe Pairings Fashion Girls Are Wearing Right Now
Consider this your guide to looking chic this season.
To know me is to understand that I’m a true denim enthusiast. Even during the hottest months of the year, I’ve always found a way to incorporate the style into my warm-weather wardrobe—while still keeping cool. A peek inside my closet will reveal a range of summer denim trends, from wide-leg jeans that allow ample airflow to thigh-skimming Bermuda shorts that are surprisingly breathable.
With that in mind, I’ve also been searching for the best shoes that’ll ground my denim looks all season long. Fortunately for me, the street style scene is overflowing with inspiration. Some savvy fashion girls are sticking to the basics, pairing jorts with simple ballet flats. Meanwhile, others are embracing a more maximalist attitude, teaming roomy jeans with quirky toe-ring sandals.
If you’re also on the hunt for the best denim-and-shoe pairings to try this summer, scroll on. I’ve put together a curated edit of easy combinations that’ll cycle effortlessly through your outfit rotation.
Bermuda Shorts and Thong Sandals
Whether you’re getting dressed for a casual day in the office or a laid-back weekend outing, this look will rise to the occasion.
If you haven’t yet heard, ‘90s minimalism is so back. Channel your inner Carolyn Besette-Kennedy and slip into a pair of streamlined thong sandals. Defined by Y-shaped straps and a straightforward silhouette, these shoes coordinate well with just about any look.
For sweat-inducing summer days, wear them with Bermuda shorts. It’s a breezy outfit formula that won’t cause you to break a sweat.
Wide-Leg Jeans and Toe-Ring Sandals
Stand apart from the crowd with a statement-making top, floaty jeans, and toe-ring sandals.
Feeling a bit adventurous with your personal style this season? Consider a pair of kooky toe-ring sandals. They’re the perfect choice for those moments when you want to level up your look.
Allow these whimsical shoes to take center stage by teaming them with basic baggy jeans.
Jorts and Ballet Flats
This street styler strikes the perfect balance between sporty and chic with an athletic-inspired rugby shirt and a pair of sophisticated ballet flats.
Ask me about the most enduring shoe of 2026, and I’ll wax poetic about ballet flats. They've been dominating fashion’s trend cycle for the past few years, and they're not going anywhere.
This season, It girls are favoring mesh alternatives and high-vamp styles. Follow their lead, and finish off your look with a pair of cropped jeans while you’re at it.
Trouser-Like Jeans and Chunky Sandals
I just found your new favorite work outfit. You’re welcome.
With a lofty platform that keeps you far away from grimy city streets, chunky sandals are the perfect commuter shoe. Try a plain black option, or a raffia alternative that embodies a summery mood.
Then, complete your nine-to-five uniform with trouser-like jeans, a crisp button-down, and your favorite laptop bag.
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Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers trend forecasting and shopping stories, highlighting runway-inspired styles and a blend of emerging and established brands. Prior to joining Marie Claire, she worked as a freelance editor for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE, specializing in e-commerce content and curating seasonal trend reports. Earlier in her career, she worked at Town & Country, developing a strong portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.
Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, she served as editor-in-chief of The Walk, the university's fashion magazine, and completed internships at Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.