February 20, 2025
What Shoes to Wear with Mom Jeans: 7 Go-To Styles
Who doesn’t love a good mom jean? This ’90s throwback style has made its way into wardrobes everywhere — and for good reason. They’re casual, comfortable and create that effortless cool girl look. But when it comes to styling them, finding the right shoes to pair with this looser fit can be tricky.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the best shoes for mom jeans based on different looks you might be going for. From casual sneakers to elevated ankle boots, we’ve got 7 great combinations that work for everyday errands, nights out and everything in between. Here’s how you can make mom jeans’ shoe choices that effortlessly bring style to your day — no matter the occasion.
1. Ankle Boots
Gone are the days when boots were only meant for leggings or skinny jeans. Now, mom jeans with boots are all the rage, adding structure and a little edge to the relaxed fit of the pants. The secret is in the proportions — the silhouette of ankle boots balances out the looser cut of the jeans, which creates a modern and stylish vibe. They work especially well when paired with a tucked-in sweater or a cropped jacket to highlight the high-rise waistline.
Styling tip: Try rolling up the hem of your mom jeans to show off the boots. This not only draws attention to the shoes but also keeps the look chic and clean. Add some statement socks peeking out for a touch of personality.
2. Sneakers
When deciding on what shoes to wear with mom jeans, sneakers are always a solid choice. They keep the look casual and comfortable while adding a modern twist. White sneakers are the classic choice since they pair with literally everything. But, if you’re feeling playful, opt for colorful kicks to add a pop of energy, or go for floral designs to bring a softer, more unique touch to the ensemble.
Styling tip: Going for a timeless look? Pair white sneakers with a classic striped shirt. Or use bold or pattern sneakers to tie in other accents from your outfit, like a scarf or bag.
3. Clog Heels
For those days when you’re feeling adventurous, bring on the boho retro vibes with clog heels and mom jeans. This combo works because the chunky shape of the clogs balances out the slouchy fit of the jeans, while the added height gives your outfit a little extra something. Neutral clogs keep it understated, while bold colors or patterns make the whole look pop.
Styling tip: For a boho look, wear your clogs and mom jeans with a tucked-in flowy blouse and a woven bag, rolling up your jeans just a little to pull it all together.
4. Alpargatas
What type of shoes do you wear when you want something a little more elevated than sneakers but still casual and understated? In our opinion, alpargatas are the perfect answer. They’re lightweight and comfy, plus, they’re one the few shoes that go with mom jeans and every other type of denim out there — making them a great choice for anything from running errands to meeting friends for lunch.
Styling tip: Try them with a tucked-in tee and an oversized cardigan, and add a crossbody bag to keep things simple and functional.
5. Platform Espadrilles
What shoes look good with mom jeans for those warm spring and summer days? While there are several options out there, platform espadrilles bring that extra beachy vibe to any look. The woven texture gives them a summery vibe, and they’re easy to style with the loose fit of the jeans. Go for neutral tones if you want something classic, or have fun with bright colors or playful patterns for something a little edgier.
Styling tip: Throw on a lightweight blouse or a fitted tank, and add some simple accessories to finish the look. Also, consider rolling up your jeans a little to show off the entire shoe.
6. Leather Loafers
Leather loafers are excellent shoes to wear with mom jeans in winter and autumn seasons, thanks to their professional-chic design and high-quality materials that keep you warm and stylish. We love loafers for colder months because they add a touch of structure that complements the casual feel of the jeans, making you feel a little more dressed up. Style them with cozy socks when it’s cold out or add a pop of personality with bright, playful socks.
Styling tip: Finish off the outfit with a chunky knit sweater or a tailored coat, and go for cropped or cuffed jeans, which work best to highlight the loafers and keep the whole thing balanced.
7. Heeled Mules
Another timeless classic with a vintage vibe, heeled mules are the perfect shoes to wear with mom jeans when you want to dress things up a bit while still bringing your personality. They work for everything from a casual lunch to a dressier night out, depending on how you style them. Choose monochrome designs for formal occasions or go bold with floral prints for fun times with friends!
Styling tip: Combine your mules and mom jeans with a fitted blouse or a cropped blazer, or keep it casual with a tucked-in tee. Let your jeans sit right at the ankle to show off the mules and keep the proportions balanced.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Wearing Shoes With Mom Jeans
Now that you know what shoes go with mom jeans, it’s important to keep in mind that styling these jeans comes down to balancing their relaxed fit with the right pieces. Some combos look effortless, while others can quickly start feeling just a little bit off.
Keeping a few quick do’s and don’ts in mind makes it easier to nail the look every time:
Do’s
- Cuff your jeans to highlight your shoes
- Try bold colors or patterns to add personality
- Keep proportions in mind — balance the loose fit with structured footwear
- Play with textures like leather or canvas for variety
- Consider the season when picking your shoes
Don’ts
- Forget to adjust the length or hem to suit your shoes
- Shy away from stepping outside your usual shoe comfort zone
- Overthink it — sometimes simplicity works best
- Skip on maintaining your shoes — scuffed or dirty footwear can ruin a look
- Ignore comfort — it shows when your shoes don’t fit the occasion or activity
Wear TOMS. Wear Good.
The best shoes to wear with mom jeans are the ones that make you feel comfortable and confident. From laid-back sneakers to sleek slip-ons, the beauty of mom jeans is how great they look with a variety of styles.
At TOMS, we have a wide selection perfect for your favorite mom jeans. With options that prioritize comfort and style, you’ll find something that fits into your wardrobe and lifestyle. Plus, every pair helps us create meaningful change in communities around the world.
Explore our women’s shoe collection to find shoes that look as good as they feel.