If men’s clothing were a ship, shoes would undoubtedly be the ship’s anchor. Amazing shoes do more than just look good. They back wardrobes, keep outfits in check, and, with proper thought, may help a guy transition between all the seasons and social settings.
What Shoes Should Every Man Have?
Everything a man needs to go from the height of summer to the deepest winter, stopping at every possible dress code along the way, should be included in a carefully chosen capsule footwear collection. The ageless classics that make up its contents are adaptable mainstays that may be dressed up or down, combined and rearranged endlessly. Think of these as your shoe rack necessities—the kinds of shoes that every stylish man should own.
1. A Pair of Black Classic Dress Shoes
Every guy must own a pair of black dress shoes for formal occasions, whether weddings or black-tie events and galas. And if you’re working in a company with a business formal or other more formal dress code, you should have more than one pair for greater convenience. But if you needed to stick to one pair, what style would you go for? I’d suggest Oxfords.
Oxford shoes are the epitome of dress shoes with elegant, subtle lines that instantly refine any outfit. One distinguishing feature of Oxford shoes is the quarters sewn beneath the vamp. They come with a straight toecap, flowery wingtip toecap, or plain vamp. They also offer a “closed” lacing mechanism with a V-shaped slit.
Oxfords are the must-have shoes for special events: wearing black ones to a wedding or other ceremony will enhance your ensemble with style and elegance and be in style. But you can also wear them with jeans, a suit, or even chinos if you want a more relaxed style. Only ensure to pair them with less formal tones like brown, burgundy, or navy blue.
2. A Pair of Brown Causal Shoes
Similarly to how black shoes are the staple for formal occasions, so are brown shoes for every other, more informal, and daily occasion. No matter your style and circumstances, there’s a pair of mens brown shoes for every guy. These shoes are versatile and easily paired with most colours and fashion accessories. Besides being easily dressed up and down, meaning you can wear them anywhere depending on your attire, brown is rich and interesting, coming in many shades, from warm through charming to cool. Each shade radiates a special type of sophistication that can enhance any outfit, additionally adding to their versatility.
Since mens brown shoes are available in various styles, colours, soles, and curves, consider the style and formality level to choose a pair that’ll go well with most outfit combinations. If you lean more towards classic combos, opt for a dressier shoe, such as a lace-up with a smooth, rich finish and a sturdy rubber outsole. If you’re up for more casual outfits, pick a dark brown sneaker with a contrast off-white outsole. Punch details and contrast materials create a unique design and texture that pair well without looking dull.
Chelsea and chukka boots are another option for year-round coverage in style. A pair of smooth leather brown Chelsea boots will add the subtle elegance of dress shoes to a formal suit for a timeless look. For a more rock ‘n’ roll style, simply put on a leather jacket, jeans, and a basic T-shirt with your black boots. Desert boots, also known as Chukkas, and low boots are less formal. These high-top lace-ups go well with casual attire and are ideal for chilly climates.
The brown hue is another key factor when choosing your pair of brown shoes for men. Although the ideal tint for you is personal, it may also depend on the event and the clothes you choose. Generally speaking, a darker shoe appears more official. Also, different brands have different opinions about how light or dark their brown shoes should be.
3. A Pair of Low-top White Sneakers
Sneakers are a staple in any man’s wardrobe, whether used for work or play. Besides the enormous design and colour availability, white remains the ultimate favourite. Consider your go-to white minimalist sneaker black Oxford’s Yang’s Yin. Anything from sweat shorts and a sweatshirt to selvedge denim and a crew-neck top can go with them. However, choosing smooth leather or suede instead of canvas is essential for increased longevity.
A pair of white leather sneakers, branded jeans, and a simple or multicoloured T-shirt are the perfect combination for days when all you want is a casual, comfy look. Nowadays, wearing a suit with leather sneakers is totally appropriate for a more official appearance. Although white sneakers have completely defied convention, they nonetheless appear fashionable. Sneakers, chinos, and a blazer are great for more laid-back business wear.
Simply fit your white trainers in a weekend bag when going on an excursion. While easy to wear on strolls in the city or the countryside, they’ll effortlessly lend a touch of fashion. The most adaptable colour is white, but for a more subtle style, neutral hues like grey, navy, or black also look great.