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A mule can also help balance the casual nature of denim shorts by dressing them up a little.

And by showing off the ankle, mules are great for any length of shorts.

Close-up of woman wearing denim Bermuda shorts, gray blazer, woven tote bag, and black and white cowboy boots

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I love a strappy sandal with Bermuda cut-offs and an oversized statement blouse, Lopez says.

Cowboy Boots

Cowboy boots are a classic denim pairing.

Cowboy boots instantly elevate your look and add some fun personality to the outfit.

Woman wearing a cropped peach halter top with high-waisted black denim shorts and black Chuck Taylors

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Lopez and Parlade agree that a kitten heel is the way to go.

ItsCarrie Bradshaw-codedand giving model-off-duty.

Logistically, Parlade says the footwear choice is all about balance.

Model wearing mauve tank top with denim shorts and black woven mules - Byrdie Shoes to Wear With Denim Shorts

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These can be anything from Crocs and Hoka Recovery Slides to Tevas and other velcro sandals.

My go-to combination for vacation is a chunky dad velcro sandal or chunky platform slides, Lopez reveals.

Theyre comfy fortraveland walking around, and they make your outfit feel a little more it-girl.

Blonde woman wearing a denim blazer and white denim shorts with ballet flats - Byrdie Shoes to Wear With Denim Shorts

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Gladiator Sandals

Another footwear silhouette thats back from the dead to complement your denim shorts?

Additional hardware on the shoes add an edgy appeal to denim.

Mesh Flats

If youve been on TikTok lately, youve likely noticedmesh flatsflooding your feed.

Woman with a slicked-back bun, pink leather jacket, jean shorts, and pink strappy heel sandals

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In case you havent heard yet, mesh flats are the new shoe of the summer, Lopez says.

These shoes elevate the textile without making it look too dressed up.

you might opt for aMary Janeplatform heel, espadrille wedge, or any material youre looking for.

Brunette woman wearing a navy blazer with a black top and dark denim shorts, along with black and white cowboy boots - Byrdie Shoes to Wear With Denim Shorts

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I love pairing a chunky loafer and white crew sock with denim shorts, Lopez says.

Parlade agrees, noting that she particularly enjoys pairing loafers with micro shorts.

This combination is work-appropriate and another great option for strolling in the city.

Blonde woman in a zebra top and denim shorts, riding a bike in neon yellow kitten heel sandals - Byrdie Shoes to Wear With Denim Shorts

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Model wearing a black leather jacket and denim skirt with Crocs - Byrdie Shoes to Wear With Denim Shorts

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Brunette woman in long denim shorts with brown leather gladiator sandals - Byrdie Shoes to Wear With Denim Shorts

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Woman in a long denim skirt with mesh flats - Byrdie Shoes to Wear With Denim Shorts

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Brunette woman in long denim shorts with a blazer and matching platform heels - Byrdie Shoes to Wear With Denim Shorts

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Model wearing a striped long-sleeve crop top with long white denim shorts and black chunky loafers - Byrdie Shoes to Wear With Denim Shorts

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