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Ayo Edebiri Just Proved This Elegant Shoe Trend Makes Light-Wash Jeans Look Best in Winter

By Swedan Margen

Ayo Edebiri Just Proved This Elegant Shoe Trend Makes Light-Wash Jeans Look Best in Winter

Ayo Edebiri has been at the top of my list of celebrities I look to for outfit inspiration ever since she started working with Danielle Goldberg, the celebrity stylist who recently made Vogue's '2026 Best Dressed List.' So, it only makes sense that this week, she once again inspired me with what she wore to the world premiere of 20th Century Studios' Ella McCay in L.A.: light-wash blue jeans and black-and-white heels.

For the occasion, Edebiri wore a look from Chanel's 2026 Métiers d'Art Show, an especially fitting choice because the collection itself was stunning and because she is one of the brand's newest ambassadors. Her outfit featured a pair of straight-leg light-wash jeans and black pumps with a diamond-shaped white cap-toe design, a reverse colorway of what appeared in the ensemble on the runway (or should I say, the subway platform?). She finished the look with a simple white T-shirt layered under a long, sparkly tunic topped with a black satin bow.

Ayo wears a white tee, black and white top, light-wash jeans, and black and white pumps.

On Ayo Edebiri: Chanel top, jeans, and pumps

I've always believed light-wash denim is one of the most elegant shades; I don't often reach for it in winter. But since L.A.'s weather isn't like the East Coast's right now, it makes sense that Edebiri would lean into the lighter palette. Despite the airy wash and lack of a jacket, the look still felt seasonally appropriate thanks to the shoes. The color-block heels, mostly in black, added warmth to the denim, while the touch of white brought elegance to what many see as casual pants.

Seeing this look has convinced me to dig out my light-wash jeans and style them with color-block heels this winter. If you want to do the same, keep scrolling to shop my selection of the best light-wash jeans and black-and-white heels to pair together and wear now.

The Best Light-Wash Jeans and Black-and-White Heels

Levi’s® 501 '90s Jean

The iconic 501 jeans will add a chic vintage touch, regardless of what you wear on top.

Italian Leather Cap Toe Slingback in Bone

Quince

Italian Leather Cap Toe Slingbacks

If you love the classic and timeless look of Chanel's cap-toe slingbacks, add these to your cart.

Harlow Mid Rise Ankle Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans

rag & bone

Harlow Mid Rise Ankle Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans

This exact silhouette is what's trending right now.

bergdorfgoodman, Turgimod Bicolor Patent Leather T-Strap Pumps

Manolo Blahnik

Turgimod Bicolor Patent Leather T-Strap Pumps

I don't like to pick favorites, but these rich pumps are my favorite in this highly curated edit.

The '90s Iggy Lo-Rise Baggy Jean

Denim Forum

The '90s Iggy Lo-Rise Baggy Jeans

Don't sleep on Aritzia's denim selection.

retrofete, Simona Slingbacks

retrofete

Simona Slingbacks

I can't believe these Saint Laurent-looking slingbacks are on sale.

Trf Wide Leg Low Rise Jeans

ZARA

Trf Wide Leg Low Rise Jeans

Style these with loafers, ankle boots, or pointed-toe pumps.

Harmony Slingback

Tony Bianco

Harmony Slingback

The bow is such a fun and cute touch.

Joan Jean
Tweed Patent Cap Toe Vesper Slingback Pumps 37.5 White

Saint Laurent

Tweed Patent Cap Toe Vesper Slingback Pumps

levi, Low Loose Women's Jeans

levi

Low Loose Women's Jeans

These give a loose look without appearing sloppy.

Buckled Strap Heeled Shoes

ZARA

Buckled Strap Heeled Shoes

When you're not wearing these with light-wash jeans, style them leather pants or an LBD.

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