Everyone in Los Angeles Knows This Shoe Trend Makes Denim Shorts Look Way Cooler

By Swedan MargenJuly 11, 2025

Big city living requires flexibility at all times when it comes to ever-shifting temperatures. Understanding the importance of having an extra layer on standby, even during the summer months, is crucial to seasonal dressing. Between sweltering subway rides or walks and overzealous office air conditioning, city temperatures can swing wildly throughout the day. That’s why I like to start my summer outfits with a versatile base—something comfortable enough to handle whatever climate the day throws my way. This week, the summing styling inspiration for said base comes courtesy of model Kaia Gerber.

Gerber, who understands that great summer-in-the-city styling thrives on a little contrast, built her look around a pair of classic cutoff denim shorts. But rather than opting for the usual suspects—sneakers or flip-flops—she went for a shoe pairing that's far more striking: a pair of black, knee-grazing leather boots. It's not the most obvious combination, but that's exactly what makes it work. The boots add coverage and a sense of intentionality that makes the outfit feel dynamic as well as city-ready. And, while Gerber was spotted styling this look in L.A., I can't help but think it's perfect for navigating the fickle summer weather.

Kaia Gerber walks down the street wearing a red boxy shirt, denim cutoff shorts and knee-high boots. She carries a black bag and accessorised with necklaces and hoop earrings.

Gerber layered her look with an oversize shirt in a rich ruby red and kept the accessories simple: gold hoop earrings and delicate layered necklaces. But it's the boots that elevate the entire ensemble. For summer days that don't hit boiling point, knee-high boots remain a personal favorite, especially when worn with short hemlines. They ground the outfit and add the visual interest that's often overlooked during the warmer months.

This denim-shorts–and–knee-boots combo is a styling formula I'll be returning to again and again. Read on for my edit of the best pieces to recreate the look yourself.