7 Ways Fashion Girls Are Styling Flats With Wide-Leg Jeans

Once confined to the weekend uniform, jeans have officially become an (almost) all-occasion uniform — at least when paired with the right shoes. With flats, wide-leg jeans look slouchy but sharp, and the pairing works on a coffee run, a gallery opening and everything in between.

Flats and wide-leg jeans make sense once you see them together. While the look reads casual at its core, layers and accessories offer plenty of ways to add sharpness and sophistication. The contrast is the whole point. A wide, relaxed leg gives you volume and attitude, while a sleek ballet flat, loafer or pointed slipper adds polish and keeps the silhouette from feeling sloppy.

Below, all the style inspo you need — straight from the fashion girlies — for pairing your favourite flats and wide-leg jeans this fall.

Everyday Minimalism

elle 1 — *Photograph: (Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images)*

A casual jeans-and-long-sleeve-tee look instantly feels elevated when paired with flat mesh Mary Janes and a chic leather drawstring bag. Less is more when you want to highlight specific pieces in your wardrobe.

Seasons Of Colour

elle 2 — *Photograph: (Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)*

Colour can be chic, and pairing pink ballet flats with a bold cobalt blue bag instantly adds playful charm to a casual jeans-and-polo look. Extra style points for a head scarf and statement sunnies.

Hints Of Lace, Pop Of Red

elle 3 — *Photograph: (305pics/Getty Images)*

Lace and bold red may sound daring, but the look feels anything but when worn with slouchy jeans, a cosy sweater, a white tee and comfy socks. Letting lace peek out from your waistline is an unexpected detail that’s surprisingly cute.

Black N’ White Chic

elle 4 — *Photograph: (Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)*

For transitional weather, pair jeans and flip-flops with a structured jacket and a crochet bandana. This timeless look strikes a balance between casual and sophisticated, and it adapts easily from day to night.

Moto Refresh

elle 5 — *Photograph: (Christian Vierig/Getty Images)*

A moto jacket brings timeless edge, while a chic bag and ballet flats add the softness that makes the look feel effortlessly cool.

Laid-Back Sophistication

elle 6 — *Photograph: (Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)*

Wide-leg jeans and emerald loafers make a smart juxtaposition when styled with elevated basics like a tee, a V-neck knit and a long suede coat.

Streetstyle Elegance

elle 7 — *Photograph: (Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)*

Dark-wash denim reads polished when styled with a high-neck knit and black loafers, and a structured handbag and oversized sunglasses complete the sophisticated effect.

Downtown Charm

elle 8 — *Photograph: (Valentina Frugiuele/Getty Images)*

A sleeveless sweatshirt layered over a long-sleeve shirt and jeans adds depth, while burgundy ballet flats, silver jewellery and a classic tote keep the look timeless yet current.