10 Shoes to Wear With Culottes, the Most Versatile and Underrated Summer Pant

Key Points

• Culottes are cool again making this versatile and underrated pant a summer must-have.

• The cropped, voluminous silhouette can be tricky to pair with shoes.

• Try balancing things out with sculptural mules, heels, or sleek boots.

As divisive as they might be, culottes have quietly secured a place in practically everyone’s wardrobes. The subtle sneak in addition happened slowly but surely, and now the bottoms have been (mostly) embraced across the fashion world.

Somewhere between the sharpness of tailoring and the ease of loungewear is where culottes have filled a gap in our closet. Unlike traditional denim or jorts, this cropped, often voluminous silhouette invites a certain kind of styling precision and whimsy that just can’t be recreated. Of course, the wrong shoe can throw off the entire look.

Think of it as a balancing act. Adding a pair of sculptural mules echoes the funky structure of the pants, heels add a lift without overcompensating, and sleek boots tuck just beneath the hem. Even a perfectly skater boy-coded sneaker can add an unexpected nonchalance.

Ahead, 10 different shoes to wear with your culottes.

With Retro High-Tops

High-top sneakers work well with culottes because they help ground the look and add just the right amount of structure. The cropped length of the culottes draws attention to the ankle, and a high-top works to fill that space without overwhelming it. They also add contrast to the often tailored or flowy nature of culottes, making the outfit feel more modern. Plus, the retro vibe of a high-top (such as these Converse) injects a cool level of subtle edge.

With Casual Slides

Slides (like Tevas) work surprisingly well with culottes because they keep the look relaxed and unfussy, which plays into the laid-back feel of the silhouette. The flat, open style pairs nicely with the cropped hem, showing just enough skin to keep things feeling light. They also bring a bit of a sporty, utilitarian kind of vibe that balances out softer culotte styles.

Heeled Mules

Heeled mules are a natural match for culottes because they add polish without feeling too formal. With its open back and slight lift, it helps elongate the leg and create a visible illusion of sophistication. They also bring a subtle refined nature that dresses up the ease of culottes without trying too hard.

With Platform Heels

Want to make culottes feel high fashion? Platform heels are your shortcut. They add height, yes, but more importantly, they are the key to amplifying the entire look. The volume of a culotte pairs well with the chunkier base of a platform, creating a dramatic yet cohesive appearance. Plus, the combo leans into an almost ’70s-inspired aesthetic, especially with wide-leg or pleated styles.

With Boots

Black boots and culottes are a sleek and quietly powerful pairing. They give off just the right mix of polish since it draws the eye. Whether you go for a chunky sole or a pointed toe, black boots anchor the look and make culottes feel more elegant and less breezy. It’s also a go-to combo for transitional weather.

Thong Sandals

Thong sandals give culottes an easy, minimalist vibe that feels effortless but still styled. The simplicity of the sandal works well with the volume or tailoring of the pant. They also let the hemline breathe, keeping the look light and airy, especially perfect for warm days or vacation dressing.

With Heels

Strappy heels give culottes a dressed-up feel that still reads trendy modern. The delicate straps add a visual interest and can be dressed up with a pair of socks. They also just make your outfit feel more intentional without going overboard. Whether you’re headed to dinner or a summer event, it’s a combo that hits the sweet spot between easy and put-together.

With Ballet Flats

Ballet flats and culottes make for an unexpectedly chic duo. It’s the silhoette of the moment—and the summer—that will keep your outfit effortless and easy. It’s a look that feels very French-girl-off-duty. Perfect for days when you want to feel comfortable but still look like you have great taste.

With Loafers

Loafers and culottes? Total style win. The sleek, classic vibe of loafers adds just the right amount of polish without feeling too formal. Plus, they keep things comfy and easygoing next to the wide-leg shape of culottes.

With Low-Tops

Low-top sneakers are a great match for culottes because they add a fresh, sporty touch to any outfit. The cropped length of culottes lets just the right amount of ankle show, keeping the look balanced. This combo feels as if it is the ultimate style hack that works whether you’re running errands or meeting friends for coffee, and it never looks like you tried too hard. Plus, it’s proof that comfort and style can absolutely live in the same outfit.

Read the original article on InStyle