Guide to pairing women’s shoes and trousers

Knowing how to pair women’s shoes and trousers can completely transform a look. Sometimes, a simple change of footwear can turn a casual outfit into a sophisticated one, or turn a classic outfit into a surprisingly modern ensemble.  

At Panama Jack, we’ve compiled this practical and stylish guide to pairing women’s shoes and trousers. Here, you will find general tips on style, recommendations to suit trouser styles and tips on choosing the perfect footwear based on trouser colour.  

Women’s shoes and trouser combinations: general tips

Before we delve into each style and colour, it’s worth clarifying some general rules that will help you to choose the perfect footwear to pair with your trousers: 

• Proportion is key. Wide-leg or flowing trousers work best with shoes that provide structure, such as ankle boots or heels. However, fitted trousers go well with anything from trainers to lightweight loafers.
  

• The colour sets the tone of the look. You can’t go wrong by combining neutral tones (black, brown, beige, white), but playing with contrast can add a more modern and creative feel to your look.
  

• The shoe style defines the occasion. The same pair of trousers can be casual with trainers, elegant with heels or urban with boots. The magic lies in switching your footwear to increase your options.
  

• Less is more. If your trousers already stand out due to their colour or design, avoid overloading your outfit with overly flashy shoes.
  

With these basics in mind, we can now explore which shoes are most suitable for each trouser style. 

Which footwear to choose for each trouser style 

How to pair shoes with wide-leg trousers

Wide-leg trousers are back with a vengeance and are a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. Ideally, to maintain the shape of the outfit, choose shoes that slim the figure.  

• Medium or high heels (such as block heels or strappy sandals) are perfect for lengthening the legs.
  

• If you are looking for comfort, flat-soled loafers or boat shoes also work well, as long as the trouser hem does not drag along the floor.
  

• For a casual look, minimalist trainers add a fresh, urban feel.
  
  

The trick is to always maintain a balance: the more volume the trousers have, the lighter the shoes should look. 

What shoes to wear with flared trousers

Flared trousers are a pure 70’s vibe. To take full advantage of them, there’s no better choice than footwear with a touch of retro. 

• Chunky-heeled boots are the perfect match, as they complement the drape of the trousers. 

• They also work well with platform shoes, which enhance that vintage vibe and lengthen the leg.
  

• For a more modern look, try square-heeled sandals in summer and leather clogs for in-between seasons.
  

What shoes to wear with palazzo trousers

Palazzo trousers are pure elegance. The fluid fabric requires shoes that complement their movement without overwhelming the look.

• Slim or kitten heels are a perfect choice for a sophisticated look.
  

• If you are looking for comfort, opt for some flat leather sandals which maintain the elegant line without sacrificing on comfort.
  

• For a more office-type look, thin-soled loafers will complete an understated yet contemporary style.
  
  

Cargo trousers: what shoes to wear them with

Cargo trousers are synonymous with a casual urban style. Here, the shoes will define the mood of the outfit. 

• Chunky trainers will give you a very modern sporty look.
  

• If you are looking for something trendier, military-style ankle boots will balance the shape and reinforce the utilitarian nature of these trousers.
  

• For some chic contrast, try them with minimalist sandals in summer to create a surprising effect.
  
  

Shoes to pair with Chinos

Chinos are great all-rounders in any wardrobe. Versatile and elegant, their character changes depending on which shoes you choose.

• For a casual look, boat shoes or espadrilles add a Mediterranean feel.
  

• In the office, classic loafers or medium-heel shoes make the outfit more stylish.
  

• If you are looking for a modern touch, some white trainers will add a fresh and youthful feel.
  
  

How to pair shoes and trousers by colour

How to pair navy blue trousers with shoes

Navy blue is a classic colour that adds elegance and sophistication. To maintain this look, nude, beige or camel shoes are perfect for daytime wear.

• Black shoes make the outfit more formal and are ideal for the office.
  

• If you want a sophisticated contrast, opt for burgundy or maroon shoes which break with uniformity without sacrificing on style.
  

• For a fresh summer feel, white shoes are also a good option. 

How to pair white trousers with shoes

White trousers are the star item for the summer. Their neutrality allows you to play around with your footwear. 

• For an elegant look, pair them with gold, silver or nude shoes which lengthen the legs.
  

• If you prefer a casual style, you can’t go wrong with brown leather shoes or some white trainers.

• For a  touch of colour, red or blue shoes will elevate the outfit while keeping it fresh. 

Brown trousers: what shoes to pair them with

Brown conveys warmth and a natural feel. 

• Beige or camel shoes reinforce that warm feel.
  

• Black shoes provide contrast and formality.
  

• For a  more modern style, shoes in shades of olive green or burgundy are more unusual but extremely elegant allies.
  

How to pair green trousers with shoes

Green is a versatile colour that changes depending on the shade.

• With brown or camel shoes, the result is a warm and natural look.
  

• Black shoes work for more formal looks, particularly when combined with dark green.

• For a modern contrast, make a bold statement with white or even metallic shoes. 

Red trousers: what shoes to pair them with 

Red trousers are the protagonists in their own right, so the footwear should add balance. 

• Black or nude shoes are a great choice for an elegant look.
  

• White shoes look fresh and work extremely well during the summer
  

• If you want to be bold and contrast, gold shoes will elevate the outfit and add a glamorous touch. 

How to pair beige trousers with shoes

Beige is a neutral tone that allows many combinations.

• Brown shoes create harmony and a classic style.
  

• Black shoes add contrast and an air of sophistication.
  

• For a chic monochrome look, shoes in nude or sand tones are the best option.
  

What colour shoes to pair with grey trousers

Grey is one of the easiest colours to pair. 

• With black shoes, the look becomes elegant and understated.
  

• White shoes add freshness and a contemporary feel.
  

• If you want something more striking, red or mustard shoes are perfect to break the neutrality.