The Three Best Shoes For Suits
Even the most laid-back men will have to get dapper for a formal occasion every once in a while. When the time comes to break out your suit and tie, you’ll want a nice pair of shoes to add to the style and swagger of your formal look.
The wrong pair of shoes can be detrimental to the appearance of an otherwise stylish and well-tailored suit. The key to looking your best in a suit is close attention to detail. Proper accessorizing requires attention to color, style, and creativity, and shoes are no exception. Shoes are the most important accessory as they are necessary in regards to utility and are one of the most noticeable components of an outfit.
If you’re tired of rocking the same pair of boring leather boats on your feet, consider livening up your look with the perfect shoe to complement your suit. Think of shoes as an investment in comfort, style, and quality. To prevent a footwear faux pas, familiarize yourself with the best types of shoes to pair with formal suits.
Here are your options:
- The Oxford
The Oxford is a classic; it was has been worn by men of distinction since antiquity. The shoe was named after Oxford University for goodness sakes! Oxfords are undeniably the most basic and timeless of dress shoes. If you’re in need of a classic staple that can be worn with both formal and casual wear, Oxfords are your best option. Over the years, Oxfords have evolved from a simple formal shoe into a shoe that can come in a range of styles, colors, and fabrics (calf leather, patent leather, suede, and canvas).
Oxfords are characterized by a sleek silhouette with closed lacing that hugs the foot’s contour. The Oxford is popular due to its simple appeal and ability to go with almost everything. Regard to material is paramount in determining which variation of Oxford will go best with your outfit. For example, a patent leather Oxford pairs well with a formal suit or tuxedo. A rubber soled suede version of the suit, on the other hand, complements a nice, dark wash pair of jeans.
- The Monk Shoe
If you’re more of a buckle guy than a lace guy, then the monk shoe is for you. Instead of an eyelet closure, the monk shoe has a strap across the front of the shoe with either a single or double buckle fastening. The monk shoe is an ideal alternative if you want a contrast to the traditional lace shoe structure. Though monk shoes can, like the Oxford, be dressed up or down, they are a little less versatile. Monk shoes are paired best with a well-tailored, dapper suit. If you opt for the monk shoe, the most important thing to keep in mind is to make sure the buckle of the shoe matches the metal of your belt and cufflinks.
- The Loafer
If you are opposed to both laces and buckles, fret not, the loafer is a great option for you. The loafer is the ultimate casual man’s transition shoe into formalwear. The loafer is essentially a slipper that is acceptably worn to formal events. The loafer, like the Oxford, is a timeless shoe, with proven versatility. The loafer allows a great deal of creativity as they can be fashioned with different straps, tassels, and metals. Due to the versatility of the shoe, it is important to know the difference between a casual loafer and a formal loafer. Penny loafers are casual and are paired best and most appropriately with a pair of chinos or dressy jeans. Tassel loafers and loafers with buckles are dressier options that wear well with a sport coat. The loafer is a good option if you’re attending an event where you’ll be on your feet a lot during the day, as it seamlessly combines quality and comfort.
There are a number of formal shoes to choose from to pair with your suit, but not every shoe is appropriate for every suit. The types of shoes detailed above are ideal options are they are the most adaptable in terms of style and formality. If you’re a casual type of guy, stay true to your appreciation for comfort and opt for a nice slip-on loafer when the time comes to dress up. If you like a little flair, the monk shoe is a sure crowd stopper. Whichever type you choose, make sure you do not compromise on quality, comfort, or, most importantly, personal style.