A good pair of dress shoes like men’s blue dress shoes is not only a luxury but also a need. Sure, shoes have their place, but sometimes even the finest of them aren’t good enough. Some situations need footwear that is as elegant as ageless, whether it’s a wedding, a job interview or a meeting with corporate bosses. Fortunately, there are choices for any taste.
Before you look for brown shoe for men, these are the five dress shoe styles every man should know now and forever.
Oxfords
If you can buy only one pair of dress shoes in your wardrobe, an oxford should be your first choice. It’s a style that goes with everything, so you’ll never be caught off guard at a significant business event—or if you have to wear a tux. This is due to the “closed-throat” design of the oxford.
Don’t understand? Just check at the eyelets near the top of the shoe. Does it resemble a “V” rather than a series of parallel lines? You’ve got an oxford, and its sleek shape ensures that you’ll appear put-together for any formal event.
Derbies
Derbies are less formal than oxfords in terms of formality, but don’t let that deter you. Are you going to be surrounded by black-tie traditionalists? A decent pair can go with just about any suit (though maybe not a tux).
The open-throat silhouette—the leather surrounding the laces runs parallel and across the vamp—can also be worn with denim or tweed pants. If you’re the kind of man who wears a suit daily but also wants a pair of shoes for date night on the weekend, derbies are a great option.
Brogues
Brogues are often referred to as wingtips, and there’s a reason for that. Two of the more popular designs feature ornamental “wings” that extend from the shoe’s toe.
Loafers
Some people used to think loafers were too informal to wear with a suit. Just ask your father—or maybe your grandfather. Thankfully, such times are no longer with us. Now, the slip-on design is available in forms that are sleek and elegant enough to go with even the finest two-button suit.
The two most common variations are penny loafers and bit loafers. There’s a strap across the shoe on penny loafers with a cutout that was supposedly meant to carry a penny (it wasn’t, but it’s still a great tale). Bit loafers have a metal piece across the foot that is entirely decorative but yet stylish.
Chukkas
Chukkas are a bit of a gamble. Some are clearly not designed for formal events and would be more appropriate on a building site than in a boardroom.
Others, on the other hand? They have the same level of refinement as the different styles on this list. Shorter-than-average boots will often feature a smaller toe and crisp lines going up to an ankle that will fit comfortably beneath a pair of suit pants.
