Although the linen season is soon to be upon us, and I’ll always have a place in my heart for my cotton poplin skirts, I can already tell you that this summer, you’ll find me in my jeans more often than not.

Come rain, wind or shine, denim trousers are a staple that I reach for no matter the season. But with this comes a common dilemma: understanding which shoes truly look best with jeans. Now, of course, I already know that there are a number of very basic footwear styles that pair universally well with all denim. But with the upcoming summer season at the forefront of my mind, I’m on the hunt for some slightly trendier shoe styles to wear with my classic jeans that feel fresh and elevated in 2026.

After a quick scroll on Instagram, I’ve already narrowed my search down to five chic shoe trends that it girls are wearing with their denim this season. And as a self-proclaimed minimalist, trust me when I say that they all remain equally as chic as they are wearable. From elegant two-toned flats to playful jelly sandals, keep scrolling to discover the five summer shoe trends stylish dressers are wearing with jeans in 2026.

1. Heeled Flip-Flops

Style Notes: Flip-flops have become a staple in my summer capsule wardrobe, but when I want to dress my jeans up, I turn to heeled iterations that are more suited to formal occasions. These ’90s-inspired silhouettes will add interest to even the most basic of outfits this season.

Shop the Trend:

2. Two-Tone Ballet Flats

Style Notes: I’m always partial to a ballet flat, but to make them feel fresh for summer 2026, I’ll be opting for chic two-tone iterations. Adding a touch of elegance to your jeans outfits, this flat-shoe style is perfect for when you want to wear your jeans to the office.

Shop the Trend:

3. Strappy Sandals

Style Notes: Sandal season is almost upon us! And there’s no style more versatile than the strappy sandal. Interesting enough to elevate jeans, but pared-back enough to feel wearable, this is a shoe style that will never date.

Shop the Trend:

4. Boat Shoes

Style Notes: However, when they want a flat-shoe that’s slightly more elevated than a classic loafer, it girls turn to elegant boat shoes that are just as versatile but bring some polished edge to their jeans outfits.

Shop the Trend:

5. Jelly Sandals

Style Notes: Remember the jelly flip-flop resurgence we saw last summer? Well, that’s in part thanks to Ancient Greek Sandals. The jelly sandals reminiscent of my early school days remain my favourite, but there are a myriad of other brands to choose from this summer.

Shop the Trend: