One type of pants style stands out among the rest when it comes to comfort, style, and popularity -- khakis! Khakis are worn by both men and women in a multitude of settings since they can be dressed up or dressed down, depending on the occasion. But which color of shoes match the best with khakis? If you are searching for the answer to that question, then look no further because we have researched the best color shoes to wear with khakis, and we have them all listed here just for you!
The best color shoes to wear with khaki pants are brown, gray, black, beige, white, and red. When choosing the perfect color, you should consider what type of look you want to achieve and the undertones found in your pants.
We all want to look our very best, and finding the best shoe color is one way to make sure your outfit is coordinated and stylish. Keep reading for our picks of the best color shoes to wear with your khaki pants!
This article may include affiliate links and elements that were carefully created by our team using advanced ai to help you envision the best style advice.
Shoe Color And Khakis
What Is Khaki?
So what are khakis anyway? It's helpful to know what exactly we are talking about in case you aren't sure if your pants actually are khakis. The most basic definition of khaki is a tan color. However, there are quite a few variations of the color, and it can be lighter or darker tan with undertones of green, yellow, gray, and even orange.
Over time, the term khaki became a way to describe cotton, tan-colored pairs of pants. Many people believe khakis and chinos are the same, but that's simply not true. Chinos are similar to khakis; however, chinos can come in all different colors, not just tan.
Khakis are a formidable style in the world of casual pants, and many major clothing brands include khakis in their line. Their popularity is due to their versatility and the fact that they are comfortable. They can be dressed up or down, and they look appropriate in a multitude of settings.
Shoes And Khakis
Shoe choice is especially important when you are creating a look, and finding the right color is equally significant. When deciding on your shoe color, it's helpful to consider what type of look you want. Are you trying for a more casual appearance or do you want to be a little dressier?
Also, the shade of khaki you are wearing should be considered when choosing shoes. Look at the undertones in your pants before deciding.
Below we have listed the best shoe colors to wear with khakis.
Brown
Brown shoes are probably the number one color choice to wear with khaki pants. Either light or dark brown shoes work well since they are earth tones and in the same color family as khaki. The complementing colors will have you looking coordinated and confident.
Gray
There is a long-standing argument about whether or not gray and beige go together. Some say yes, and some say no, However, it is considered acceptable to wear gray shoes with khaki pants, especially if your khakis have gray or green undertones. Gray shoes actually look really nice with khakis, so don't be afraid to challenge the norms.
Click here to see these gray espadrilles for men on Amazon.
Black
Although some say you shouldn't wear black shoes with khaki pants, there is no rule that says it's taboo, and the combo looks great together. It's sometimes suggested that you wear a darker khaki color if you opt for black shoes since very light khakis and black shoes are too much of a contrast.
But that's not necessarily the case, and black shoes with light khakis can be a striking combination. Black sneakers are one stylish and casual option to pair up with khakis.
Click here to see these men's Vans on Amazon.
Beige
Beige shoes look really good with khakis. Even though it might seem that they would blend too much with your pants, that's not true at all, especially if you wear a pair that's slightly darker or lighter than your pants.
The type of shoe you wear also makes a difference. Beige flip flops and sandals can pair well with khakis for a relaxed, summery vibe.
White
White shoes are a nice choice to go with khakis because they provide a classic yet relaxed look. White sneakers are especially popular to wear, and they look great with all shades of khaki.
Click here to see these women's sneakers on Amazon.
Red
Red shoes can really make a bold statement, and the splash of color works well with a neutral like khaki. If you choose red shoes, you might want to pair them up with a pair of khakis that are more beige in color instead of with green undertones.
What Shoes Go With Khaki Pants
There are quite a few types of shoes that can be paired with khakis. Loafers might be the obvious first choice, but they aren't the only shoes that look good:
- Sneakers
- Flip flops
- High heels
- Flats
- Sandals
- Espadrilles
- Oxfords
- Casual boots
Most people consider khakis casual pants, and while that's not untrue, you can also dress up your khakis with the right pair of shoes. You can wear dressier shoes like high heels and oxfords with khakis. These shoes will help you achieve some level of sophistication even though you are wearing more laid-back pants. If you do choose to dress up your khakis with nicer shoes, add a blazer or wear a button-down for a more polished, office-friendly look.
Can You Wear Khaki Pants Year Round?
Although you might be familiar with the rule that you can't wear light-colored pants or shoes in the winter, that rule is dated, and most style experts agree it no longer applies. In fact, khakis, even lighter colored khakis, can be worn all year long.
In summer, they look great with t-shirts and flip flops. In winter, khakis are easily paired with a comfy sweater and a pair of work boots, loafers, or Chelsea boots. If you aren't completely sold on wearing light-colored pants in the winter, darker-colored khakis are also an option.
How Long Should Khaki Pants Be?
According to style experts, khakis should at least reach the top of your shoes. If they go past your shoes, make sure they aren't more than one or two inches over your shoes. You don't want khakis to be too long or too short.
So Many Shoes
So there you have it! There are a lot of options when it comes to choosing a shoe color to wear with khakis, and we've given them all to you here. You can wear just about every neutral color out there with khakis, and you can even be a bit bolder with a pair of red shoes. In addition to the color, the style of shoe you can wear pretty much runs the gamut as well, and khakis can be worn from summer to winter and back again.
If you'd like more shoe style advice, check out these other articles:
What Shoes Go With Chinos? [For Men And Women]
