Discover our top advice for the nine jeans and boots pairings that will redefine your wardrobe.

The formulas you need to know.

Stumped on what boots to pair with your latest set of jeans? You’ve come to the right place. There’s no singular denim style that’s “out” each season; though some may lead the pack (we’re looking at you, baggy and cargo-pocketed jeans), in essence, every denim style is being worn all the time. Whether it’s skinny or straight-fitted, bootcut or wide-leg, or black or white, jeans in any color, fit, or length can be found anywhere. This begs the question: When every style of jeans is always available, how do you know what shoes to wear with them? 

Thankfully, we did the research (and some literal legwork) to make the process less stressful for you. Want to make a statement in your mom jeans, but not too literally ‘80s? A sleek, shiny boot will do the trick. If you’re hoping to bring your look a punky edge with distressed denim, a platform-soled boot will elevate your ‘fits without being overly grunge. And when it comes to the big, wide, baggy jeans that are sweeping the nation? A sharp, pointed-toe boot will cleanly cut through the volume. 

Discover our top advice for the nine jeans and boots pairings that will redefine your wardrobe. 

Skinny Jeans and Stiletto Boots

Skinny jeans are back, and they aren’t going away anytime soon — thanks to the rise of the “indie sleaze” aesthetic and nods to 2010’s dressing trends on numerous runways. Streamlined the leg-hugging style with an equally dynamic stiletto-heeled boot in any neutral tone, which elongates the leg while remaining sleek from day to night. 

Baggy Jeans and Pointed-Toe Boots

This year’s popular baggy jeans trend can be sharply elevated with pointed-toe boots. Since the denim style usually covers the back of your shoes, a triangular-tipped boot in any color, height, or silhouette (though we’re partial to calf or knee-high pairs for fuller leg coverage) will bring it an instant polish.

Bootcut Jeans and Western Boots

Embrace this denim style’s namesake with a Western boot. Bootcut jeans were made to highlight the close-toed base of this boot style, making them an ideal pairing. The shoe’s thick heels allow for easy wear with a subtle height boost, while their ability to be worn atop or beneath your jeans’ hems allows for a range of styling opportunities. 

Straight-Leg Jeans and Lace-Up Boots

Lace-up boots’ practical shape and rock n’ roll roots pair smoothly with straight-legged jeans. The breathable denim style earns a cheeky edge from a heeled or ridged lace-up style, thanks to its subtle toes and cinched silhouette. Styles with chain or stud accents will bring your denim a punky boost, though neutral suede or leather pairs also provide a tough finish.

Distressed Jeans and Platform Boots

Distressed denim and the literal rise of platforms have gone hand-in-hand over the years. Slimmer pre-torn styles provide a fuller look at the shoe’s uppers, showcasing your sharp height boost. Meanwhile, wider-leg iterations fall nonchalantly over the pair’s shafts while ensuring you’re still standing tall. 

Mom Jeans and Metallic Boots

The appeal of high-waisted, light-washed “mom jeans” can be maximized with a metallic boot. Whether low or high-heeled, mirrored, or matte, metallic boots add a whimsical, subtly glamorous finish to this hotly debated denim style. Gold or silver versions will also cleverly complement its lighter tones with an ability to be worn over or beneath its hems. 

Black Jeans and Block-Heeled Boots

Block-heeled boots bring a smooth finish to black jeans, matching the style’s versatility — particularly from their comfortable, thick heels in squared, flared, and chunky shapes. Pairs in lighter leathers and suedes bring a bohemian finish to the dark denim, while gray or black versions create a faint edge that’s streamlined and nonchalant. 

Slim-Fit Jeans and Square-Toed Boots

Square-toed boots instantly streamline slim-fitting jeans, thanks to both pieces’ snug silhouettes. Often seen attached to thicker heels — which also makes them practical to walk in for hours — the squared toe strikes the artisanal chord between traditional pointed or rounded boots, bringing even the most casual denim an instantly sharp uplift. 

White Jeans and Kitten-Heeled Boots

To complement the stark, standout hue of white jeans, slip on a pair of kitten-heeled boots. This boot style is sophisticated and elegant, much like wearing white denim — a casual alternative to traditional trousers or slacks, with an additional carefree, bohemian factor. Pointed-toe styles in neutral or jewel-toned hues will instantly boost the pale denim with a sharp, chic finish.