I Have Proof—This Flat Shoe Instantly Elevates Both Baggy and Straight-Leg Jeans

June 10, 2025 / Swedan Margen /

As much as jeans are a staple of my wardrobe, they’re just not what I reach for when I want to look polished. That being said, I’ve come to realise that with the right shoe pairing, even the slouchiest of denim can feel entirely elevated. Making my point, Miley Cyrus and Laura Harrier were out this week in indisputably elegant jeans outfits, made all the more chic by the black leather ballet flats they both happened to reach for.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Both selecting glossy leather ballerinas in a rich black shade, Cyrus wore the elegant flat shoes with high-rise, slouchy jeans, a black cardigan, a large black handbag and dark sunglasses. While the pared-back colour palette certainly contributed towards her outfit’s elegance, in my eyes, it was the smart flat-shoe pairing that set it apart. Adding structure and polish, without feeling out-of-place, the sheeny leather shoe brought a sophisticated edge to her outfit that strappy sandals or slim-line trainers could honestly never match.

Taking a similar approach to her denim styling, Laura Harrier stepped out for a dog walk this week in a pair of high-rise, straight-leg jeans, made all the more chic by her black leather ballet flats pairing.

Laura Harrier walks her dog in L.A., wearing high-waisted, straight-leg jeans, black ballet flats and striped shirt. She carries a Hermes bag in her in her arm.

Perhaps for its association with French-girl style, a ballet flats and jeans combination will, in my eyes, always feel chic. Comfortable, elegant and perfect for daily styling, read on to discover my edit of the best jeans and ballet flats below.