Hope: I'm looking for a casual pair of shoes I can wear this Spring. My girlfriend bought me a few pairs of jeans with a straight leg that are tighter than what I'm used to, and they don't look right with my sneakers.

Really, sneakers don't look right with much excepting maybe warm-up pants. And anyone wearing warm-up pants, well...
You should really purchase a pair - or two - of J.Crew's MacAlister boots. Soft suede and crepe-soled, these boots are the perfect answer for transitioning from winter to spring.
Available in dark khaki, chestnut, stone, and anchor grey (shown above), J.Crew's MacAlister was inspired by boots worn by British officers in WWII. They're made in Italy so you know these shoes will last for years.
Suede MacAlister boots, $135, J.Crew

