7 Rules for Wearing Heels with Jeans

Contributing style editor Ingrie Williams on everything you need to know about on-trend cuts and pairing hemlines and heels.

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1. A Fine Pair

Blue jeans and black shoes never get old, but stylish updates make a world of difference. Here, a cropped cut and sculpted, ankle-baring booties add a modern kick to the classic combo.

Fidelity Jeans, $224; Aldo Booties, $135

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2. Lean Denim

In terms of popularity, skinny jeans still reign supreme because they’re downright foolproof. The slim style works effortlessly with all manner of tops and looks great with a range of footwear. For instant polish, choose pointy-toe pumps and fold cuffs flat to graze your ankles if length is an issue.

Joe Fresh jeans, $34; Kendall + Kylie heels, $168, available at Town Shoes

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3. Broad Ways

The ultimate laidback look starts with way-cool jeans. A roomy cut, complete with cropped and frayed cuffs, makes this wide-leg style a standout choice. Adding chic sneakers seals the deal. Grab a low-cut pair of denim in inky black and you’ll live in them all season long.

J.Crew jeans, available holiday ’16, $325 (similar style available now); Le Château sneakers, $60

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4. Boy Crazy

Relaxed volume meets curve-friendly tailoring. Today’s boyfriend styles offer the best of both worlds, creating jeans that look as good as they feel. Use heels to provide a stylish counterbalance to the slouchy aesthetic. Whether that means killer stilettos or substantial block heels is only a matter of preference.

RW&Co. jeans, $90; Nine West heels, $165

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5. Shape Shift

Boot-cut jeans deliver a figure-flattering shape, but that can be ruined by bad hemlines. A little boost via block heel shoes can help hit the sweet spot and allow cuffs to hover above the ground. Try an elongated toe cap to further promote mile-long legs.

Yoga Jeans jeans, $188; J.Crew heels, $314

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6. On the Level

The classic straight-leg cut is enjoying a style renaissance, and there’s something delightfully simple about these latest must-have jeans. Cuffs with subtle volume create a break around the ankles that puts footwear on display. Be sure to step up your shoe game with a pair that’s embellished in one way or another.

Uniqlo jeans, $60; Aldo heels, $110

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7. Swing Out

Flared jeans are back – and better than ever. A classic blue wash, unadorned by whiskering, distressing or patches, gives the ’70s-era silhouette a modern vibe. Anchor this style with sleek footwear (think almond-shaped or pointed toes) that won’t hinder the eye-catching silhouette.

Frame Denim jeans, $387, available at Holt Renfrew; RW&Co. heels, $130

Related:
How to Find the Perfect Pair of Jeans
The Best Jeans for Your Body Shape
5 Style Tips from Actress Meghan Markle

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