How to pair men’s shoes and trousers: a practical guide for getting it right every time

Knowing how to pair men’s shoes and trousers is one of those style keys that can make the difference between a decent outfit and a truly polished look. You don’t need to have an enormous wardrobe or follow every trend, simply choosing the right shoe for the style and colour of your trousers is enough to elevate any outfit, whether casual, urban or more formal. 

At Panama Jack, we’ve put together the best combinations, with clear, easy to follow advice. From chinos and linen trousers to cargo pants, wide-leg styles and formal trousers, you’ll discover which shoes to choose in each case to help you achieve a balanced, modern and comfortable look.

Shoes according to trouser type

Shoes to wear with men’s chinos

Chinos are some of the most versatile trousers in a man’s wardrobe. Depending on your shoes, they can work equally well for everyday looks and for smarter occasions.

For a smart-casual style, leather shoes such as bluchers, derbies or boat shoes are a safe bet. They add structure without looking too formal. 

If you’re looking for a more relaxed look, smooth leather trainers or loafers work very well, especially with slightly tailored chinos and clean, cropped hems. 

Shoes to pair with men’s formal trousers

Formal trousers require shoes that measure up to their level of formality.  The ideal choice here is a classic leather style with clean, well-defined lines. 

Oxford, derby or blucher shoes are your best allies. In black or brown tones, they work particularly well for the office, events or formal settings. 

Avoid overly sporty soles or excessively casual designs, as they will disrupt the balance of the outfit. 

Shoes to pair with men’s cargo pants

Cargo pants have a utilitarian, relaxed character, so they need shoes to match that spirit.

Leather ankle boots, sturdy shoes or styles with a more pronounced sole work particularly well. They add visual balance and reinforce the urban feel of the outfit. 

For a more casual style, they can also be paired with hard-wearing trainers, but always avoid footwear that looks too refined.

Shoes to pair with men’s wide-leg trousers

Wide-leg trousers are back in fashion and, when paired properly, they can look truly contemporary. With this trouser style, it’s important for the shoes to have enough presence so they don’t look out of proportion. 

Robust leather shoes, loafers with a solid sole or low ankle boots will balance the volume of the trousers. The goal is for the outfit to look harmonious, not unbalanced. 

Shoes to pair with men’s shorts

During the warmer months, shorts require lightweight and comfortable footwear. Boat shoes or leather loafers are the ideal choice. 

Simple leather trainers also work well provided the look is casual. Avoid shoes that are too formal, as they don’t suit this style of clothing.

Shoes to pair with men’s linen trousers

Linen is synonymous with summer and lightness. The shoes that work best are those that maintain a fresh easy-going spirit. 

Leather boat shoes, lightweight loafers or footwear in lighter tones work perfectly. Avoid heavy or overly dark shoes as they will disrupt the look’s overall cohesion. 

How to pair shoes with trousers according to colour

Pairing men’s beige trousers with shoes

Beige is a light and versatile tone. Brown shoes in different tones are the best match, particularly for daytime looks.

They also work well with sand and natural leather tones, and even with navy blue, if you’re looking for an elegant contrast. 

Pairing men’s grey trousers with shoes

Depending on its intensity, grey enables many combinations. Light grey, brown or beige shoes will soften the outfit. Dark grey, black and dark brown shoes will add elegance and formality. 

For a more contemporary look, burgundy or navy blue shoes offer interesting alternatives. 

Pairing men’s green trousers with shoes

Green, particularly tones of olive or khaki, pair perfectly with brown or aged leather shoes. 

You can also opt for beige or camel tones for a brighter result. Black also works well, although it creates a more formal contrast. 

Pairing men’s navy blue trousers with shoes

Navy blue is one of the most elegant colours in a man’s wardrobe. Brown shoes will create a classic and flattering contrast. 

Black is ideal for formal settings, while burgundy or medium brown tones add a distinctive touch without sacrificing on elegance. 

Shoes to wear with men’s white trousers

White trousers require light or natural-toned shoes. Beige, sand or light leather shades work particularly well in summer.

For a more sophisticated look, light brown or even navy blue shoes can provide contrast without making the outfit look harsh.

Shoes to wear with men’s brown trousers

With brown trousers it’s best to play with different shades of the same colour. Darker or lighter shoes will create a harmonious outfit. 

For some variation without breaking the overall cohesion, you can also introduce burgundy or beige tones. 

Matching men’s mustard trousers with shoes

Mustard is a bold colour with a personality of its own. To balance it, opt for brown shoes, natural leather or chocolate-tones.