A few centimetres can change the outfit.

The same shoes and trousers can look different with just one turn-up or a few centimetres off the hem. A good trouser length reveals the shoe and works with the fabric’s width and movement. There is no universal measurement, but there is a useful way to judge it.

With sneakers: consider the sole and leg

Satellite has a clearly shaped runner sole. Straight jeans with a small turn-up reveal the transition to that shape. With wide trousers, a slightly longer hem can fall over the start of the shoe, provided it does not drag on the floor. Narrow trousers bunching above a sneaker can look busy. Try a temporary turn-up before having them shortened.

With loafers: give the instep room

The open line of the Danny Vera Loafer changes the proportions around the ankle. The cream trousers in the image leave the top of the shoe visible. A slightly longer leg makes the look more formal; a shorter leg with sock or ankle showing feels lighter. Check the trousers when sitting too. It is better to choose that transition consciously than discover it at the event.

With pointed shoes: keep the line flowing

Cork Ocean has an elongated toe. Softly falling tailored trousers support that line. The hem can lightly touch the upper without covering the laces completely. A very narrow leg can make the shoe look longer. For balance, try a straight cut. The coral suit in the image shows how a roomier trouser makes the shoe part of the whole.

Bring your shoes when having trousers altered. Judge the length standing, walking and sitting, with the socks you intend to wear. Ask for one leg to be pinned first: comparing in a mirror tells you more than a fixed measurement.

Artistic styling images created with AI. Visit the product pages for original product photographs and current sizes.