No matter how many times we see bloomers on the streets, tailored trousers featured by designers at fashion weeks worldwide, or celebrities trying out the skant, the truth remains: jeans are the timeless, trend-defying staple of every wardrobe. But this fall, we’re taking it down to the basics: you may have perfected your denim, but what about the shoes to pair with them?

Comfortable, effortlessly chic, and with a classic appeal that never goes out of style, we’re making the case for the brown ballerina flat as this season’s go-to shoe. While the Adidas Samba and back-to-school loafers have dominated our shoe rotations lately, this year has truly been about the ballet flat—from sporty sneaker-inspired styles and Miu Miu’s technical designs to the sleek Adidas Taekwondo, patent leather Parisian double-strap versions, and platform styles. Shades of brown have also been central to 2025’s color palette, ranging from deep chocolate to sandy tones.

Historically, brown has taken a backseat to darker neutrals like navy, black, or gray. But years of favoring other colors have actually fueled brown’s comeback. Designers like Chloé and Bottega Veneta have used this earthy hue to contrast sexy silhouettes or ground feminine pieces. And so, the stage is set for the brown ballerina.

Kate Middleton—Catherine, Princess of Wales—is a fan of earth-toned ballet flats, pairing them with tailored pants for an elegant, versatile look. Katie Holmes has been spotted multiple times in an affordable textured pair from Dune, which she styles with dark gray straight-leg jeans, a cozy gray turtleneck, and thick black socks. Think these shoes aren’t suited for colder weather? Holmes proves otherwise with a styling tip that carries this combination into winter. Personally, I love wearing the milk-white Sport Jean from Still Here (also favored by Zoë Kravitz) with the dark espresso Le Monde Beryl Luna Slipper for a nice contrast.

Thanks to the ballerina’s soft and elegant shape, it pairs well with all types of denim silhouettes. They look great with barrel jeans, wide-leg and flared styles, 2000s-era skinnies, and cropped capris. You can find a version to match your personal style, whether you prefer the refined chic of a T-strap, a ladylike heeled design, or an “it-girl” favorite in perforated leather. Best of all, these shoes are widely available: look to Alaïa, Gucci, and Miu Miu for luxury options, or check out Margaux’s effortless modern styles and Gimaguas’ cool studded designs.

Here are a few standout picks:
– Aeyde Ida ballet flats, $395 at NET-A-PORTER
– Chloé Marcie embellished ballet flats, $795 at NET-A-PORTER
– Le Monde Beryl Mary Jane ballerina flats, $520 at Bergdorf Goodman
– Alaïa perforated ballet flats, $1,250 at NET-A-PORTER
– Loeffler Randall Landon studded ballet flats, $295 at NET-A-PORTER
– Gucci Horsebit ballet flats, $1,030 at Gucci
– J.Crew Quinn ballet flats, $178 at J.Crew
– Margaux The Fonteyn flats, $335 at Margaux

Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about finding the perfect fall shoes to wear with jeans

General Beginner Questions

Q What makes a shoe a good fall shoe
A Fall shoes are typically closedtoe offer more coverage than summer sandals and are made from materials that can handle cooler sometimes damp weather like leather suede or durable canvas

Q What are the most popular types of fall shoes to wear with jeans
A Ankle boots loafers chic sneakers and comfortable flats like mules are all extremely popular and versatile choices

Q Why do ankle boots work so well with jeans
A Their height creates a clean line right at the ankle which helps elongate your leg Theyre also easy to tuck jeans into or cuff jeans over

Q Can I still wear my white sneakers in the fall
A Absolutely White sneakers are a yearround staple They look great with jeans and add a fresh casual contrast to fall layers like sweaters and jackets

Styling Practical Tips

Q How should I wear my jeans with ankle boots
A You have two main options 1 Tuck skinny or straightleg jeans directly into the boots 2 Cuff or roll the hem of your jeans so it rests just on top of the boot

Q What kind of socks should I wear with these shoes
A For a invisible look with loafers or sneakers try noshow socks With boots you can wear fun patterned socks that peek out when you cuff your jeans or warm cozy socks for comfort

Q Are there any colors that are particularly good for fall
A Yes While neutrals like black brown tan and taupe are incredibly versatile rich fall colors like burgundy olive green and navy are also perfect for the season

Q How can I transition my summer shoes into fall
A Pair opentoed mules or blockheel sandals with your jeans and add a cozy sock underneath for a trendy weatherappropriate look

ProblemSolving Advanced Questions

Q What if it rains Are my suede shoes ruined
A Not at all Protect suede shoes