Flare jeans and bell bottoms are retro-style denim pants for women who want a loose, comfortable and stylish cut that has been making a comeback with a modern twist. If you want to experiment with this trend, knowing what shoes to wear with flare jeans and bell bottoms can help you create a cute outfit. While platforms are the classic choice, there are many shoes that go well with flared jeans for a trendy look that can suit any occasion.
Ankle boots with jeans are a chic and comfortable combination that will take you anywhere, from a night out with the girls to brunch in the fall. For a casually cool style, some women may pair sneakers, flats and sandals with a flared hemline to keep the focus on the pants. Effortlessly sexy and classy, heels will always be a timeless footwear option for flare jeans for a stunning finish.
To inspire you, here are examples of the best shoes to wear with flare jeans and bell bottoms. From chunky boots to clogs, check out these cute shoe styles that always look good with bell bottom jeans and flared denim.
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Shoes To Wear with Flare Jeans and Bell Bottoms
Boots
Boots are a cute and versatile footwear choice to pair with flare jeans or bell bottoms, creating a cool and casual outfit that’s bound to turn heads. When choosing the right boots for your flare jeans, you’ll want to consider the overall feel of your ensemble. If you want a stylish and relaxed look, a pair of ankle boots or Chelsea boots will fit the bill.
For something more formal, stiletto boots or sock boots with a slim heel will elongate your legs without looking chunky. Whatever you choose, carefully match your boots to the shade of your flares to avoid an unattractive color clash.
Ankle boots are the most popular option for most women as they give you height without overwhelming your outfit’s silhouette. To channel the ultimate flower power style, choose boots with a thick heel and a slight platform around the front foot for a hippie 1970s feel. To avoid tripping, go for an appropriate heel height that keeps your hemline slightly off the ground.
For casual events, choose boots with a soft, rounded toe and a flat heel to allow your boots to take center stage. If you’re not afraid to showcase your wild side, bold cowboy boots or playful animal print styles will always make a striking statement. To finish your outfit, throw on a simple cotton camisole, an oversized teddy coat and a slouchy hobo bag for a cozy and versatile look that will see you through several seasons.
Sneakers
You can wear sneakers with flared jeans for a casually cool and flattering outfit. From designer to simple sneakers, this footwear style allows you to experiment with color, texture and pattern to bring out your unique personality. You may choose sneakers with a high platform to balance out the width of your flares. For a low-key vibe, simple sneakers like Converse can provide an interesting contrast that will give your outfit a retro touch.
For a classic look that leans vintage, rock your bell bottoms with a pair of bright white sneakers. You can choose high-top or low-top styles, chunky platforms or simple slip-on Vans for a street-chic aesthetic that’s perfect for younger women.
Although sneakers are usually reserved for casual brunches or running errands, you can dress them up by rocking an elegant top, gold accessories and a stunning clutch. If you’re going for a slightly sloppy and unkempt vibe, don’t be afraid to rock longer hemlines that will lend your outfit an undone and rebellious feel.
For something sporty, branded sneakers with thick outsoles can be a stylish choice. You can wear darker flares with sneakers, but light-wash colors with distressed detailing tend to look best.
Heels
Heels can be a great way to lift your flare jeans while adding a hint of elegance and sophistication to your look. High heels with a pointed toe will create an effortlessly feminine appearance, while chunkier styles will lend a grungy and retro feel to your ensemble that balances the wide silhouette of your jeans.
Whether you’re choosing basic block heels, cute kitten heels, daring Cubans or a striking pair of stilettos, don’t be afraid to experiment with color and pattern to breathe life into your denim.
Bold and contrasting colors can be eye-catching, but choosing timeless shades like black, navy or tan will help you rock your flares at semi-formal events without pulling focus. If you’d prefer to stand out, sultry snakeskin heels or dazzling patent stilettos will add oomph to your outfit in seconds.
For an understated look, choose flares that just barely touch the ground and allow your shoes to peek out from underneath the hem of your jeans. If you’re keeping things trendy and modern for a casual get-together, slingbacks or ankle-strap will add attractive texture around the foot in seconds.
For a badass feel, throw on a distressed leather jacket or oversized denim shirt for an old-school appearance that’s fun and refreshing. To achieve an effortlessly feminine style, pair high-waisted flares and a sexy top with slim stilettos and a stunning crossbody bag.
Platforms
Rocking flare jeans with platforms is a cool and trendy way to achieve serious height without discomfort. Although chunky high-rise platforms are the most popular pick, you can choose low-heel options for a comfortable and casual look that transitions effortlessly from day to night.
You can let your platforms be the star by wearing muted jeans and vibrant footwear that’s heavily patterned, but it’s also worth experimenting with neutral or black shades for a low-maintenance look. If you’re styling your platforms for the autumn or winter months, don’t be afraid to throw on nude or black tights for added warmth.
High platforms are the most flattering option for flares and bell bottoms to naturally lift your hemline. Low platforms or backless styles can add instant elegance to dressier ensembles. If you’re looking for texture, choose platforms with chunky straps or chic metallic accents to add interest to your outfit.
Cute and kitsch, don’t be afraid to play around with loud patterns to highlight your kicks. To pull things together, throw on a solid tank, a colorful blazer and an oversized tote for a sleek and fashionable style that exudes girl boss vibes.
Chunky Boots
If you’re planning to wear chunky boots with flare jeans, don’t be afraid to play around with height, pattern and color to create an exciting and fashion-forward finish. Boots with a slight heel will naturally elongate your legs, but you can try out flat options for a youthful feel that still looks elegant. If you’re planning to spend a few hours on your feet, you’ll crave the support of Chelsea boots or grungy Docs that will gently cushion your arches.
Combat boots and Doc Martens are classic choices that look incredible with cropped flares, but shorter women might want to choose military styles with a slight heel to give them a boost. If you’re rocking a delicate blouse or lightweight cardigan, sleek Chelsea boots with mesh detailing are a pretty and feminine option that will blend in beautifully.
You may want to stick with neutral tones like black, brown and camel if you’re rocking light-wash jeans, but you can spice up darker flares with contrast by throwing a pair of mint green or bubblegum pink boots into the mix.
Wedges
Wedges can be a refreshing and cute choice to wear with bell bottoms, giving off a beachy vibe that’s ideal for summer. Wedges and flatforms are generally more casual than heels and look incredibly stylish without being cumbersome. These shoe styles can be a flawless complement to an effortlessly chic and comfortable outfit you can wear for date night, trips to the beach club or girly brunches.
Tall wedge heels with straps complement cropped bell bottoms beautifully as they add gorgeous texture around the ankle. As your shoes will be visible, it’s worth wearing neutral shades that match your shirt or accessories for a stylish and cohesive appearance. To lift your look, shop around for classic gold jewelry and a matching clutch that will pull your ensemble together.
If you’re searching for something more bohemian, pair low cork wedges with an oversized wide-brim hat and a woven tote for the ultimate beach chic vibe. To saunter into spring with confidence, throw on a pair of floral Mary Jane wedges and a lightweight pastel cardigan for a cute collegiate look.
Clogs
Wearing clogs with flare jeans or bell bottoms can offer an attractive and flawless style that oozes European elegance. These traditional Dutch kicks are typically sturdy and backless with a round toe, but you can also find versions with ankle straps if you want to give your outfit a modern edge. These shoes are extremely comfortable thanks to the rounded front and thick heel, making them a great option for running errands or tackling foreign walking tours without a hitch.
For an elegant and upscale look, stick with leather clogs made from high-quality materials. You’ll want to stay away from bold patent styles, but slightly distressed tan or camel leather looks gorgeous with almost any outfit. If you’re heading to a casual event, resin or wooden clogs are a chic choice that work well with cropped and full-length bell bottoms.
To take a pair of dark flares back in time, medium or high clogs in autumnal shades paired with a loose-fitting shirt can look stunning. If you’re chasing an edgy vibe, try studded or metallic clogs with a tucked-in band shirt for a cool and carefree feel.
Sandals
Sandals with flare jeans and bell bottoms are a stunning combination for casual occasions. This versatile footwear can be paired with wide flares for a slouchy and laidback look, but they work best with hemmed or cropped flares for a bohemian vibe that won’t trip you up. Effortlessly chic and timeless, these shoes can easily be dialed up with bright colors, metallic accents or delicate ankle straps to showcase your unique style.
To add pizzazz to your summer wardrobe, pair studded gladiator sandals with light-wash flares to give your outfit an interesting texture that instantly draws the eye. For something more elegant, try dark bell bottoms with a vintage blouse and simple black heeled sandals. You can accessorize with retro costume jewelry or a bold crossbody for a stylish feel.
Flats
Flats can be cute, relaxed and comfortable shoes to wear with flare jeans or bell bottoms. Whether you go for vibrant blues and pinks or muted tan and nude shades, you can pair flats with your outfit for a fashionable look. Ballerina flats can be a great way to style retro attire while maintaining the emphasis on your pants. To dial things up, play around with textured materials like suede, pleather or exotic leather that will create an alluring contrast.
For a business casual look, a pair of rounded mules or heavily perforated brogues can look stunning. If you’re looking for footwear to pair with distressed or washed flares, gladiators or Birkenstocks are sturdy options that will keep your feet happy.
Before choosing your flats, make sure the hemline of your flares or bell bottoms doesn’t creep underneath your heel. Although this can create a cool and contemporary look, it leaves you at risk of tripping or scuffing your jeans as you walk.
Chunky Heels
Wearing flared jeans with chunky heels can offer a fresh and funky style that always looks flattering. These wide-base shoes have recently had a major resurgence in the fashion world, making them a trendy alternative to classic heels. Most chunky heels have an ankle strap to secure the heel and you can experiment with stunning gold hardware to add flair to your style.
If you want to wear higher kicks, make sure they don’t drive the hemline above the lower ankle as this tends to look unflattering on most women. Classic tones like white and black are reliable options that pair well with any outfit, but you can jazz up simple bell bottoms and a flowing blouse with retro checked shoes or bold animal prints for an eye-catching look.
Popular Shoes To Wear with Flare Jeans and Bell Bottoms
The most popular shoes to wear with flare jeans and bell bottoms are boots, sneakers, heels, platforms, chunky footwear, wedges, clogs, heeled sandals and flats. You can pair these footwear styles with your outfit to complement your pants, creating a modern retro look that honors the classic ’70s vibe. From subtle flare to wide-legged bell bottom jeans, these cute shoes will take your attire to the next level for a stylish finish.
