Introduction
A Mens dress shoes say much about a man. More than mere pieces of footwear, they’re an integral part of a person’s attire-important components that bring out one’s overall style. A great pair of men’s dress shoes will up the ante on your overall look, raise your confidence level, and maybe even make a statement. But with so many styles out, it does get very confusing.
The following will discuss a few of the really classic, really timeless styles of mens dress shoes. Whether you’re a seasoned fashion enthusiast or building up your wardrobe, these hints can really help you make good choices and step out in style.
Top Mens Dress Shoes
The Oxford
The Oxford shoe is a classic example of the shoe that originated in 19th century Scotland and Ireland. Oxford’s original name was the ‘Balmoral’ after the Balmoral Castle. It became a popular footwear style at Oxford University whose students wore this sleek design to oppose the knee-high boots. Its closed-lacing system and streamlined design distinguished it from other shoes making it a sign of elegance and stylishness that every gentleman across the globe still wears to date.
An Oxford sets an example in a category of timeless class among men’s footwear, especially in mens dress shoes. Sleek, polished design with closed lacing has long been favored by gentlemen of taste and style. Linen, neat, and with fewer details, they are perfect for truly formal events from black-tie events and very important business meetings to weddings.
Besides this, another reason the Oxford has remained a staple in men’s fashion is its adaptability. Traditionally made from the finest leather in classic colors of black or brown, modern renditions really push the envelope in hue-from deep burgundy to rich navy-which go with just about any suit or formal wear.
The Oxford is different because its looks are understated yet refined. While less formal shoes take on an open-lace design, the close-laced scheme of the Oxford brings out a much more fitted approach to ramp up the sleek profile. The wearer thereby looks sleek and polished, perfect for adding just that touch of class to complete any formal ensemble.
For the man who wants style without sacrificing comfort, today’s Oxfords have cushioned soles and supple leathers so he doesn’t have to decide between the two. Whether headed to a gala or out the door to the office, Oxfords will add an air of class instantaneously as one slides into them with the confidence of a true gentleman.
Plain Toe Oxford: The most basic and shortest, it has only one cut of leather across the toe.
Cap Toe Oxford: a bit more formal version featuring a thin stitch on top of the toe.
Wingtip Oxford: a style easily recognizable by the perforated “wings” which branch out from the toe cap on either side.
Derby Shoes
If you are going to use them for just about everything, then the Derby is your man. Unlike the highly formal Oxford and its closed lacing system, the Derby usually comes with open lacing, giving it a much more casual and easygoing look. This type of shoe is a bit less formal with the open laces compared to the previous type, while being more comfortable and providing more room around the ankle-what most men will surely appreciate.
The no-nonsense Derby would do great when you would want to confidently let everything be just perfect-smooth and casual. Be it smart-casual day in the office, a weekend wedding, or simply an evening out, the Derby has got you sorted. They can be paired up really nicely with fitted trousers or even slim jeans for that great and really refined yet approachable look.
While traditional in leather, the Derbies also come in everything from suede-the even more casual version-to very popular choices in brown and tan during the daytime events. They still can look correctly formal for evening events if done in black. The Derby combines comfort with versatility and style, and for this reason, it is an indispensable component in the wardrobe of any well-rounded man who seeks functionality with flair.
Plain-toe derby: the most general style and versatile.
Cap Toe Derby: This has some ornamental stitching across the toe.
Wingtip Derby: Identical to the Wingtip Oxford, but with an open lacing.
Monk Dress Shoes
Of course, one unbeatable shoe that has to be dressy and distinctively peculiar is the Monk Strap. Indeed, a buckle closure adds a smooth, clean line to the rather minimalist touch of the more conventional lace-up derivatives of Oxford and Derby. Undeniably, what surely sets them apart is a unique fastening mechanism that adds that touch of sophistication to formal and smart-casual ensembles alike.
Available as both a single and double strap, this style speaks to modern elegance while retaining something of an old-world charm. A single strap provides an uncluttered, streamlined look that is great for conservative wear. The double monk strap, by contrast, has two buckles, adding an air of boldness. This would be best fitted to that gentleman who enjoys playing with his wardrobe but in no way does he ever wish to breach the most basic rules of style.
The Monk Strap is one of those shoes that can claim versatility among its better-sounding assets. From sharp business suits to merely smartly appareled trousers and a blazer, these mens dress shoes make seamless work of the divide between formal and laid-back elegance. These are the weapons of choice for men who look at moving away from convention with regards to lace-ups while never sacrificing either class or sophistication.
In other words, the monk strap encapsulates sleek sophistication elegant yet unusual enough for the modernist who wants to have it both ways when it comes to footwear.
Double Monk Strap: Has two straps
The Loafers
The origin of the loafers is very controversial. Some credit goes to Norwegian farmers who wore similar slip-on shoes for their work, while others point to Native American moccasins as inspiration for the design. Loafers are a man’s literal best friend in the name of versatility. Conceived as a comfort mens dress shoes for being out of commission, loafers have emerged to become that chic choice which strikes a perfect balance between casual and formal wear. Usually characterized by a slip-on design and no laces, loafers strike a perfect balance between convenience and sophistication.
Loafers come in a variety of styles, but predominately speaking, there are two kinds the penny loafer and the tassel loafer. The sleekness of the penny loafer in its minimalistic design just screams perfect for those who like to keep things clean and simple. So versatile, one can wear it with everything from fitted trousers to a casual pair of chinos.
The tassel loafer does so with panache. A little more structured and with added tassels, the tassel loafer perfectly enhances smart casual style without crossing into formal territory; it simply adds some oomph. Traditionally, people wear loafers as warm-weather men’s dress shoes, but with the right fabrics and colors, they can be styled throughout the year. A light suede pair works great during summer, while a dark leather loafer—especially brown—also serves well.
But the real attraction of loafers lies in the easy grace with which they wear casually lunching or paired up with a blazer for that perfect smart-casual event, loafers strike that perfect confluence of comfort, style, fashionable and refinement.
Loafers are slip-on shoes that are comfortable yet elegant. Actually, these are considered casual wear however, there is a more formal alternative for loafers.
Penny Loafers: Classic: having the slot for the penny across the vamp in metal.
Tassel Loafers: Their vamp is adorned with decorative tassels.
Bit Loafer: It is more formal in style, having a metallic bit across the vamp.
Wearing appropriate mens dress shoes for the occasion
There is a need for thinking ahead about the purpose of the event as well as the type of dressing. Here are a few basic rules. When attending to formal events, it is best to go with Oxfords, monk straps or formal loafers. In business casual shoes, a derby, a monk strap or more dressy loafers may be appropriate. When going out casually, loafers, boat shoes or even sport shoes are acceptable. Conclusively, it is well-known that a good quality dress shoe is one of the best investments a man can ever make.
Besides elevating your look, it comforts and lasts longer. Knowing the different styles and the occasions they are best suited for will have you confidently selecting the right shoe to complete your outfit and round off your fashion statement.
