woman wearing camo pants, black tee, and nude sandals

The Do’s and Don’ts of What Shoes to Wear with Camo Pants

Back in the early aughts, camouflage anything and everything was all the rage. First introduced as fashion by Vogue in 1971, the military uniform-inspired trend refuses to live in the past. Camouflage has been an important part of fashion throughout the decades—and is making a major comeback in 2022. Because camo pants are meant to be the focal point of your outfit, you may be wondering what shoes to wear with camo pants to add a fresh twist to this timeless garment. While the former used the print to go unnoticed, the “non-print” print is the new neutral that can instantly elevate any look.

Camouflage in fashion is immediately recognizable, but camo pants for women have left the bulky, unflattering fits of the past behind and have reimagined the fashion faux pas into an on-trend, modern staple. That being said, deciding how to style your new favorite wardrobe piece has become a breeze. Take a page from Rihanna’s fashion playbook and pair the trend with Gucci & Balenciaga pumps, or get the perfect model-off-duty look with your favorite chunky sneakers. With the simple switch of a shoe, your outfit can instantly go from a laid-back street style to understated elegance.

woman wearing white sweater and camo pants with nude heels

What kind of shoes do you wear with camo pants?

1. All The Classics

To master the camouflage trend, the trick is to balance the look with everyday basics. Keep things casual and simple by wearing a relaxed white tee and cuffed camo pants with white trainers. If you prefer to add a bit of edge to your everyday ensemble, throw on a classic pair of booties to complement your camo pants.

2. Go For Bold

When deciding what shoes to wear with camo pants, treat camo as a neutral. Your camo bottoms are the core of your outfit and can be dressed up for any occasion. Throw on a bold red stiletto for a gorgeous look that will have you ready for a night out with the girls. Alternatively, take a relaxed approach to a more formal occasion by adding a glittering designer pump.

3. Street-Chic

Traditionally viewed as a masculine fit, cargo’s have been introduced into the normcore fashion aesthetic. Popular within street style fashion, women are reaching for these eye-grabbing loose-fit camo pants or oversized jackets and making them the focal point of their look. To make the trend your own, pair this look with your favorite chunky sneakers or combat boots.

woman wearing camo pants, black tee, and nude sandals

How do you wear camo print shoes?

If you’re wondering what shoes to wear with camo pants, camo print shoes are likely the last thing on your mind. But if camo from head-to-toe is your thing—we say “go ahead and rock it!” While there are no strict rules in fashion, there is always a way to compliment an outfit. Try styling camo print shoes in a delicate print to keep the two from clashing. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to match the hues or find one that is more subdued.

Can I wear camo shoes to work?

Wearing camo shoes to work is an easy task. No matter your job's dress code, it’s simple to find camo print shoes in a work-appropriate silhouette. Camouflage flats, ankle boots, pumps, sandals…the list goes on. Due to the print's ever-growing popularity in the fashion world, even luxury designers such as Valentino, Christian Louboutin, and Gianvito Ross have showcased camo shoes in their collections.

Those working in a more casual environment can style the trend with their favorite jeans and a white or chambray button-down, paired with a camo print slip-on loafer. Alternatively, head out in leggings with canvas sneakers in a vibrant colored camo. And for someone who works in an environment that appreciates the look of high fashion, we suggest matching a pencil skirt with camo print stilettos.

woman wearing pink sweatshirt and camo pants with orange sandals

What color can I wear with camouflage?

Camouflage acts as a neutral in most cases. And as such, it pairs well with countless colors. Black, white, and other neutrals are a great option when going for a classic look. But if you’d like to add a playful touch to the camo trend, a little color softens the outfit. Bold neons and soft pastels will change the overall vibe and make your camo pieces feel less masculine or traditional.

Explore Camo Fashion at Sanctuary

Camouflage and surplus-inspired pieces are a huge trend that is likely not going out of style anytime soon. Knowing what shoes to wear with camo pants, will help you effortlessly pull together insta-worthy OOTD’s. Because these pieces are eternally on-trend, find a piece or two that suits your personal style and continue to boast the look all through spring, summer, and right into fall.