It’s no secret that teaming sneakers with denim is one of the hottest street-style looks sported by off-duty models and the fashion elite. But while such fashionistas make it look effortless, for the average gal it doesn’t always come so easily.
If done wrong, jeans and trainers can be seriously daggy. You can own every cult sneaker of the past decade and jeans that make your bum look amazing but if paired incorrectly, you’ll appear less runway and more running for the bus, if you know what we mean.
All it takes is one mistake. So, to avoid this fashion faux pas, stick to these four golden rules for nailing the look.
Opt for cropped
This isn’t to say other jean styles won’t work, but for a surefire style tick, just show a little ankle. Stylist, digital editor and the founder of Style by Yellow Button, Claire Fabb recommends cropped in order to avoid the Jerry Seinfeld look. So, stick to a classic cropped look (we love Frame Denim’s and Carhartt Patti Jeans), boyfriend jeans (we love these from GRLFRND) or try this season’s hottest denim trend: cropped flares (we love Citizens Of Humanity Cora Crop and Bassike’s cropped flares). Straight leg jeans also look great with a cuff, especially if they’re light-coloured—think white or pale blue, which work with almost any kind of trainer.
Go for fashion, not function
Yes, we’re all about exercise here at Amodrn. And yes, it’s important to pick shoes that suit your fitness pursuits. But just this once, we’re making an exception. Truly functional sports footwear is ideal for hard-core training, but if you’re outside the gym and pairing them with jeans, then fashion-forward kicks, like these white Common Project sneakers will always serve you best.
Stick to a neutral colour palette
Clashing colours is coming back so if you’re feeling confident in nailing the trend, we won’t hold you back. That being said, if you’re not sure you can pull it off then play it safe with your clothes or shoes. If you’re wearing coloured or patterned kicks (like these epic ones from Golden Goose) then make sure your jeans and top half are as neutral as possible. Often, less is more.
Skip the socks (or hide them at least)
It goes against what feels natural with sneakers, I know, but ditch your socks if you can—ok, buy those hidden ones so you don’t stick out your shoes! As much as we love statement socks with sneakers, when it comes to jeans, they’ll make the wrong statement. That means no logos or colours peeking above your shoes, sorry. Plain, subtle, ideally absent.
+ Style tip… As we all know, when it comes to rules, the best kinds are those broken. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on any look, but remember: pick one statement piece (which in this case is probably your trainers) and work around it. Then you’ll never go wrong.
