4 Easy ways to elevate your jeans

Jeans are something we all own and often underestimate the versatility of. When it comes to dressing up your favourite pair, one part of it comes down to the jeans' colour and style and the other to styling. And believe us when we tell you that the shoes you pair them with can completely transform your look. Don’t believe us? Keep reading.

White sneakers

Yes, you read that right, we said ‘elevate’ and then kicked things off with the white sneaker. Trust us, we know what we’re talking about. Pick out a pair that suits your personal style (right now at Shouz, we’re loving chunkier, retro-inspired styles) and pair them with your favourite denim wash/cut, a slightly oversized blazer and layer some gold jewellery for a smart-casual look that’s office-appropriate. White sneakers contrast nicely against dark-wash denim.

Heeled ankle boots

For a look that’s a little dressier, skip the sneaker and opt instead for a heeled bootie with cropped leg denim for an edgy, fashion-forward look. Go for more adventurous boot silhouettes such as those featuring funky heels, exaggerated toes, lace-up detailing or bright colours and prints. You can try a blazer or a fun blouse/party top for night looks. Swap the blazer/nice top for a simple white tee and accessorize with statement jewellery for an effortlessly cool look for a relaxed day look.

Heels

There’s a catch here because this look can come off a little outdated if not done right. While most people will be tempted to go straight for skinny jeans and a classic pump, we’re encouraging you to be more creative with your pairings. Try jeans in a relaxed cut instead. If you’re feeling adventurous go for baggy jeans, if you’re feeling less so, you can never go wrong with a classic straight-leg that is still more au-courant than the skinny silhouette.

As for the heels, experiment with colour (neon is having a moment), heel height (kitten heels look incredibly slick with jeans), styles (mules, strappy sandals and platforms are great alternatives to pumps and classic barely-there heeled sandals) and heel shape (flared heels, geometric heels, textured or print heels are all having a moment).

Funky loafers

One of 2021’s biggest trends was the chunky loafer. And while the trend looked transient at first, it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere anytime soon. This traditionally preppy look has taken on new meaning thanks to its surprising ability to give your jeans an unexpected edge that translates equally as well for work as it does for a fun day out with the girls. If the chunkier feel of this trendy style isn't up your alley, try a sleek yet edgy classic style with a bold square toe instead.

To avoid an overly preppy look, pair your loafers with looser, cropped denim. Opt for frayed hem and lightly distressed styles for a more relaxed vibe. For extra edge, pair your loafers with socks- either vintage-style white socks or a fun, embellished pair. You can then throw on anything from an oversized coat in winter, to a blazer in autumn and a fun tee in spring/summer.