These are the Chicest Jeans and Shoe Pairings You Can Wear RN

As we approach the turn of the season, I’ve been revisiting the spring/summer 2026 runways and sifting through collections to decode the trends set to resonate most in the months ahead. Captivated as I was by the intriguing colour palette and the emerging ’80s influence, it was denim that ultimately held my attention. More specifically, it was the jeans-and-shoe styling combinations beginning to ripple out from the runways that felt truly worth noting.

After scrolling through hundreds of runway images, I’ve distilled everything down to a concise edit of the most important jeans-and-shoe pairings to know now. Read on to discover the styling combinations poised to shape the season ahead.

Style Notes: Spotted on Celine’s spring/summer 2026 runway, cropped denim was styled with sleek derby shoes—bringing together two forgotten trends primed for a comeback. With a polished, preppy sensibility, this pairing feels structured yet so wearable, for a runway-approved finish, style with a boxy blazer and add a statement belt (or two).

Style Notes: To give your denim a going-out feel for 2026, peep-toe shoes are the chicest pairing to know. Injecting both lightness and elegance, this once-retro silhouette was seen saturating the SS26 runways and is set for its biggest season yet. Take cues from Valentino and bring extra femininity with a pretty blouse pairing.

Style Notes: While stovepipe and straight-leg jeans may be trending, there’s no need to abandon your baggier pairs just yet. Stella McCartney proves that loose-leg denim still has a place for 2026—provided it’s balanced with thoughtful tailoring. A sharp peplum jacket paired with pointed-toe boots creates a streamlined silhouette that keeps the look feeling intentional and sleek, despite the floaty proportions.