Wearing Culottes? These 14 Shoe Combos Just Work
Culottes—those wide-legged wonders that sit somewhere between pants and skirts—are back and they’re not playing it safe.
Especially when it comes to shoe.
Luckily, I’ve cracked the code. Here are 14 shoe pairings that just get culottes—and make you look like you knew what you were doing all along.
1. Classic Sneakers
The MVP of shoe racks everywhere, classic sneakers and culottes are a dynamic duo with zero patience for discomfort.
This combo whispers, “I didn’t try,” while looking like you totally did.
Bonus: You can run for the bus and still look cute doing it.
White sneakers, in particular, are like the fashion equivalent of good Wi-Fi—essential, reliable and surprisingly powerful.
2. Strappy Sandals
Culottes plus strappy sandals?
That’s summer flirting with you.
These shoes show just enough skin to say, “Yes, I moisturize,” without going full flip-flop.
They’re breezy, a little flirty and they let your ankles live their best lives.
Warning: may cause sudden daydreaming of Mediterranean vacations.
3. Ankle Boots
Nothing says “I’ve got autumn figured out” quite like culottes and ankle boots.
It’s cozy meets cool without veering into pumpkin spice cosplay.
Whether you’re dodging fallen leaves or just trying to survive the office A/C, this duo’s got you.
They hug the ankle just right, creating a silhouette that’s less “I tried” and more “I always look like this.”
Bonus points if the boots have a fun texture or color—because culottes love a partner that doesn’t blend in.
4. Loafers
Loafers are basically what culottes would wear if they had feet.
Sleek, structured, and a little smug, they bring a brainy charm that whispers “I read The Economist… for fun.”
Pair them with culottes and suddenly you look like you own stock in something.
Ideal for office days, gallery openings, or any event where you want to appear both important and unfazed.
A true time-saver with top-tier vibes.
5. Espadrilles
Think of espadrilles as the laid-back cousin who always knows where to get the best wine.
Their woven texture brings breezy charm to culottes, making you feel like you’re perpetually on vacation—even if it’s just a walk to the mailbox.
They add just the right amount of height (and attitude), while still letting your feet breathe.
6. Pumps
Pairing culottes with pumps is a power move.
It’s the fashion version of a mic drop.
These shoes lift you—literally and figuratively—while the culottes keep things interesting.
You’re not just attending the event, you’re commanding it.
Whether you’re headed to a fancy dinner or just want to feel like you could be, this combo delivers.
Add a touch of drama to your walk and let everyone wonder where you’re going—even if it’s just to get overpriced coffee.
7. Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are like that quiet friend who always ends up being everyone’s favorite.
When worn with culottes, they strike a perfect balance between comfort and grace.
No blisters, no nonsense—just sweet, stylish support.
They add a soft touch without stealing the spotlight.
Ideal for days when you want to look composed but still sneak in a nap later.
Bonus: they make tiptoeing to the fridge for snacks 200% more elegant.
8. Wedges
Wedges and culottes are what happens when fun meets function at happy hour.
These shoes give you height without the high-maintenance drama.
Great for rooftop evenings, backyard weddings or pretending you know how to salsa.
They offer the confidence of heels with the stability of shoes that actually like you.
Plus, they give your calves a subtle flex.
If your culottes want a partner with flair and follow-through, wedges are it.
9. Mules
Mules are the shoe version of “I’m late but still fabulous.”
They slide on without judgment and immediately pull your culotte game into present-day coolness.
Backless, breezy and a little mysterious—they’re what you wear when you don’t feel like explaining yourself.
Perfect for spontaneous brunch plans, gallery browsing, or pretending you’re casually bumping into an ex (and winning the moment).
They’re minimal effort, maximum effect—and your pedicure gets some air time too.
10. Combat Boots
Feeling spicy? Enter combat boots.
They bring a rebellious edge to the soft drape of culottes and shout (politely), “Yes, I do have opinions.”
Whether you’re festival hopping or just taking your power walk seriously, this pairing means business.
They contrast beautifully with the wide-leg silhouette and bring unexpected grit to the mix.
It’s delicate meets don’t-mess-with-me.
Toss in a leather jacket and you’ve got a look that might start a band.
11. Oxford Shoes
Oxfords are the academic overachievers of the shoe world—but with style.
Pair them with culottes and you’ve got a bookish, offbeat combo that quietly wins the outfit game.
It’s giving “professor who writes novels on the side.”
Whether you’re museum-hopping or loitering at an indie bookstore, these shoes add texture and charm to your stride.
They work best with structured culottes, vintage accessories and at least one unanswered philosophical question.
12. Slides
Slides with culottes are what you wear when you’re done pretending to try.
They’re minimalist, unfussy and perfect for living your best “I’m just vibing” life.
Ideal for beach trips, lounging or surprise patio cocktails.
They whisper relaxed confidence—and sometimes squeak a little. That’s the charm.
Keep the rest of your outfit crisp or flowy, and let the slides say, “I’m here, I’m calm and I smell like sunscreen.”
13. Platform Shoes
Platforms bring drama in the best way.
They turn your culottes into a runway moment—even if that runway is your driveway.
Think height, bounce and a little nostalgia (disco energy included at no extra cost).
Whether you’re dancing through a festival or conquering a flea market, these shoes bring a fun clash to the breezy lines of culottes.
Warning: may cause spontaneous strutting and head-turning.
14. Slingback Heels
Slingbacks are your secret weapon for dressing up without overdoing it.
They’re elegant without being extra, stylish without showing off.
Pair them with culottes and suddenly you’re the mysterious guest at the art show.
They give your ankles a subtle highlight while keeping everything secure.
Just don’t be surprised if someone asks where you got them.