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    High-waist jeans are in—wear them with these shoes in 2026

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    High-waist jeans are in—wear them with these shoes in 2026

    If you ask me, high-waist jeans were never out of style, but for many, when the Y2K craze took hold a few years ago, low-rise denim came back with full force, leaving no room for its more timeless, sophisticated counterpart. Jeans that had buttons at the waist instead of the hips were removed – donated, or if their owners thought ahead, put away for a later date – and replaced with trendy styles. Luckily for anyone like me who’s been loyal to denim style, the return of high-rises is coming faster than I predicted, and this spring and summer, all signs are pointing towards a full comeback, which means it’s time to start planning.

    When a denim shape arrives or re-enters the scene the most important thing is to think about the shoes that look best with it. You can really wear any top with jeans, but shoes are more difficult to get right, with heel height, toe shape, color, and material all playing a role. If you wear wrong footwear with jeans then the whole outfit falls apart. To keep the process of reincorporating high-waisted jeans into your wardrobe as seamless and painless as possible, I did some digging through Instagram and found the best pairs of shoes with the denim silhouette to come. Scroll down to enjoy the fruits of my labor, and by that I mean, shop the best shoes to wear with high-waist jeans in 2026.

    Best Shoes to Wear with High-Waist Jeans

    High-waist jeans + flip-flops

    In spring and summer, there’s no denim outfit easier than a pair of high-waist vintage jeans and some classic flip-flops. The combo is comfortable, cool and effortless – a perfect trio on a hot day.

    High waist jeans + heeled ankle boots

    @hannamw is wearing a white t-shirt, high-waisted white jeans and ankle boots.

    When you’re choosing a longer inseam, always wear heels to avoid awkward bulges at the sides of your jeans. A round-toe pump or mule will work great, but the best option is always a Ankle boots.

    High-waisted jeans + ballet flats

    @smythsisters is wearing a teal T-shirt, brown high-waist jeans and ballet flats.

    When in doubt, always wear high-waist jeans Ballet flats. This is a timeless option that is approved by French girls and is perfect for any day occasion. Tip: To look extra “savvy” in 2026, choose brown jeans, one of the top denim trends of the year.

    High-waist jeans + strappy heel sandals

    @iliridakrasniqi is wearing a white button-down shirt with high-waist jeans and strappy sandals.

    For an easy day-to-night transition, pair high-waisted jeans in a dark or indigo wash with simple, strappy jeans with a slight bootcut shape. Sandals. You are guaranteed to look sophisticated without putting any thought or effort into your outfit.

    High-Waisted Jeans + Slingback Flats

    @Fakerstrom is wearing a trench coat, white T-shirt, high-waist jeans and a flat slingback.

    Sister to traditional ballet flats, slingback flats have a slightly more elevated look that instantly takes your denim outfit up a notch. The key to pairing them with high-waisted jeans is to find a pair that has a slight crop and a fitted, almost cigarette-like cut, similar to a tailored trouser.