Fashion Advice
 

I just bought a pair of brown trousers.. don't really know how to describe them. Anyway, they're full length 'soft' sort-of trousers. Yes, so, what sort of shoes would be the best with them?

I have worn jeans and sneakers all of my life so I'm a bit stuck.

depending on the rest of the look, black pumps?

safe boring answer, I know...

perhaps you can post a pic of said trousers for better advise?

Without actually seeing the pants or the pants on you it is tough to say.
I agree with SiN if you are wearing it with a black top. However, if you are wearing it with another earth tone top, I would wear brown boots with heels or a pair of brown loafers. Of course, you could always go with a pair of shoes that match the top and that would pull the whole outfit together. However, do not wear heels if the pants just come to your ankle. The heels will make you look like you bought pants that were too short.
The only real advice I can give you, based on the information you gave, is to make sure that the belt matches the shoes.

heh, I couldn't recommend brown shoes because .. I am not a fan of brown. at all. :)

black shoes would work with a lot, really.

depending on the shade of brown, some rich jewel-tone shoes could also work.

These:
http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/4938372/c/585.html

In red! :)

Honestly though, there are sooo many different kinds of casual type shoes...loafers, mary janes, with heels, without heels...browse around zappos and see what style fits you.
Disclaimer: I don't work for zappos, but I like buying from them--free shipping, excellent service, great variety.

Gosh I want the boots linked above so badly....