I’ve always loved wearing trainers with tailored trousers, and I usually go for the now ubiquitous white sneaker – Stan Smith-style, or my favourite Seven Feet Apart kicks – with slim-fit cigarette trousers. Easy. But a look I’ve always fancied is straight out of the Toast catalogue: wide, heavy trousers with retro high tops. And let’s be honest, this look is much easier if you’re tall, and, as we’ve established in previous En Brogue In Full posts, I do not fall into this height category.

When these amazing Laskaas boots came into my life a few weeks ago though, I wanted to wear them with everything, so I thought I would give it a go with a bit of tailoring. And then I remembered this pair of Topshop trousers that I’ve had for a while – turns out they’re perfect! They’re just about short enough to show a tiny bit of my upper ankle, and I think that’s the key to making this look work. Any longer, and you’d not only miss the detail of the lovely boots, but they’d be a little less flattering on the legs. Any higher and the gap might be a bit too much, like you’re waiting for a flood (fans of the ’80s film The Outsiders might get that reference!).

PHOTOGRAPHY: ZAC FRACKELTON

Of course this means that trying on is absolutely key, so if you already have the shoes and are on the hunt for the trousers, it might be better to go in store rather than shop online. I’ve paired mine with this striped shirt from Mango – I love the colours and balloon sleeves but again, would advise trying this one on. I bought it online and it’s a funny wide, cropped shape which makes it hard to tuck in (as you can probably see in the pictures!). It’s great under dungarees, mind you.

READ MORE: HOW TO WEAR DUNGAREES

As usual, I would love to know what you think of this week’s look! Is it something you would try yourself? Do you have a favourite retro sneakers brand you think I should have included? Is there anything else you would like to see me try out? Leave comments below.