Stop wasting money! Start investing in these formal shoes
Formal shoes, or dress shoes, are the compulsory footwear choice for all ceremonial events, business gatherings, and special occasions. That doesn’t mean that they can’t be used on an everyday basis, especially if you work in a field that requires the use of smart casual to formal attire.
As a man, you need to constantly improve your image and the way you present yourself to the world to get the most of your professional and social efforts and time.
That is why you need to have a decent amount of formal shoes ready for any occasion, at any given time. They are truly an investment, and as such will pay dividends to those that realize how important it is to have the right shoes for the job. Trust me, you don’t want to go to that all-important business dinner wearing shoes that don’t match with your belt, simply because you did not have enough pairs to choose from.
But regardless of the surroundings and frequency that prompt you to use these elegant and classic footwear options, you must take into account a few important facts about formal shoes that will help you make the right choice.
-Materials
Men’s formal shoes should be made entirely out of leather. Yes, even the sole. It is a tried and tested material that will be both durable and age well. Quality leather provides just enough insulation from both heat and cold and if you wax it, and protect the leather, it will not crack, crease or wrinkle.
Rubber or crepe soles are to be avoided as although they offer plenty grip, they take away from the formal aspect and feel of your shoes.
-Comfort
Shoes need to be comfortable. Formal shoes even more so. Having your feet hurt within an hour after putting them on will certainly ruin your mood and constantly annoy you throughout the event.
So make comfort your number one priority when picking out a formal shoe. Look for quality non-rigid leather, minimal cushion abilities, and good fit when it comes to foot width. Some manufacturers allow you to choose width size, so be sure you get your foot measured and try them on with appropriate socks. Dress shoes will never be as comfortable as athletic shoes but a great fitting pair can be pretty close.
-Quality
As with all the choices you make, take quality over quantity. You may not be able to recognize a more expensive and better build pair of shoes at first glance, but you would surely be able to understand the difference if you wore one. Certified signs of quality are the use of better grain leather, real stitching and the succession between the stitches, as well as the way the leather binds to the sole. High-quality shoes can last for years, so it is wise to prioritize quality among your search criteria.
-Style
Depending on the ambiance, there are formal shoe options for most of your social and professional needs. Some men prefer the classic oxford or derby while others prefer the monk strap or the loafer. Style comes down to choosing the right shoes to match your dress style. A wise man should have more than one option when it comes to formal shoes even if he doesn’t wear dress shoes daily. More options mean more versatility and fashion taste, and that is exactly the image you want to project.
- Price
When it comes to formal shoes price ranges vary greatly, but as with a good shirt, jacket or suit, you need to budget with your eye firmly on the upper bracket of your disposable income. Shoes are a particularly rewarding investment because they help complement your look, as well as being one of the first things people notice. Having cheap shoes that deteriorate after a couple of times out will only serve you if you are the kind of person that requires formal shoes only to attend weddings and funerals. If you are an iconic man determined to be active, successful, strong and elegant, you need shoes that portray your aspirations.
That doesn’t mean that you should spend ridiculous amounts of money on custom designer shoes, but it does mean the cheap, faux stitch, leather replacement options should never be anywhere near your list.
Try to go for shoes that start somewhere around $200 and be sure you pack a good variety of styles. They are an investment that should be carefully analyzed. That is why we took the liberty of putting together a list of recommendations based on the finest and most fashionable choices, from the most important style categories. These are some of the shoes that check all the boxes.
Source: toboot.com
To Boot New York - Langford Black
This shoe from the American manufacturer To Boot New York is a testimony to simplicity. And as we all know simple things are beautiful, dignified and charming. It is made out of real high grain Italian leather and comes with a simple and comfortable design. The manufacturer provides you with a belt option to match and we can safely say it is one of the best options out there for shoes under $500.
This dapper and simple oxford shoe can be worn on many occasions and paired with your best suits or tuxedos. To Boot New York is famous for quality craftsmanship and elegant design and this shoe is no exception.
No man can go without an Oxford-style shoe and this one will be a good addition to your line-up.
Source: allenedmonds.com
Allen Edmonds - Leeds Shell Cordovan Derby Shoe
The Leeds Shell is a great example of a genuine, well-made plain-toe derby dress shoe. It is part of the Cordovan Collection and it will be a great choice for people that look for comfort and everyday use in a shoe that will perfectly fit with all your suits. This shoe company that operates out of Port Washington, Wisconsin, is famous for providing shoes to the US Army during WW2 and has gained a cult following ever since.
If you are on the look for premium quality, durable, derby shoes, from an upscale manufacturer, look no further than this fine example from Allen Edmonds. You can wear them every day and make them the workhorse of your shoe line-up. You will not be disappointed.
Source: ferragamo.com
Salvatore Ferragamo – Monk Strap
This luxury Italian manufacturer is well known for its shoes, as well as accessories and fragrances. Started in the glory years of Old Hollywood, this beloved brand has maintained its commitment to beauty, style, and elegance.
The monk strap style is very popular in 2019 as almost all major manufacturers have launched their take on it.
These monk strap examples are handcrafted and deliver Ferragamo’s signature superior fit and unparalleled arch support.
The Monk Strap shoes from Ferragamo are a social attire and will be right at home at dinner parties, dates, or fundraisers.
They will complement your look, on any occasion, with elegance and finesse, and will constitute a great all-around choice regardless of the magnitude of your engagements.
Source: louisvuitton.com
Louis Vuitton – Major Loafer
The loafer design is a classic that is still very trendy. It puts comfort above all else and it is as home on a yacht as it is on a business lunch. Loafers are a wise stylish choice for fashionable, laid back
gentlemen that know what their strengths are, and these examples form Louis Vuitton are just the thing you need.
This luxury brand is an international icon worn by the modern and extravagant gentleman who let their style do all the talking. And this is one of the signature style shoes that will be noticed anywhere. It is made from soft calf leather, hand-stitched and uses the Blake construction method, to provide you with the utmost smoothness and assuage.
The Major Loafer is a statement shoe and comes with the brand’s LV initials in the form of stylish metal accessories. They do come in black but the blue will be better suited for all your formal arrangements when a bit of casual is not only possible but encouraged.
Source: wolfandshepherd.com
Wolf & Shepherd – Bannister Patent
This is one example of a black-tie shoe that will not be out of place in the most formal of occasions. Wolf&Shepherd has taken what is essentially a derby design and made it look like something you can wear at an embassy dinner or the Oscars. Their patented leather design is not only easy on the eyes, but it makes just enough of a statement to shine that spotlight on your presence.
These are not subtle accountants shoes, but a powerful elegant formal-wear that has a hidden ace up its heael. They are unbelievably comfortable for a shoe that looks like it belongs on a red carpet. Their patented technology makes these shoes an undercover performance and endurance beast. This technology brought the company a world record for the fastest half-marathon in dress shoes.
They come with things like tongue and heel padding, ultra-soft sheepskin lining, supportive memory foam or laser-cut out-sole.
The Bannister Patent will look great at the most formal events, and they will keep your feet nice and rested with record winning technology. You should have a pair of these remarkable shoes in anticipation of those all-important formal circumstances.
Formal shoes are amongst the best investments you will ever make. Not only because they will make you look smart and dapper but they are key to pulling off any polished look you might need. They may be a little more expensive than your run-of-the-mill, cheap, alternatives but they will be an investment that will yield a tremendous return in the way people perceive you.
If that wasn't enough to convince you, remember that the ladies always keep an eye out for what kind of shoes a man is wearing.
As a man, you need to constantly improve your image and the way you present yourself to the world to get the most of your professional and social efforts and time.
That is why you need to have a decent amount of formal shoes ready for any occasion, at any given time. They are truly an investment, and as such will pay dividends to those that realize how important it is to have the right shoes for the job. Trust me, you don’t want to go to that all-important business dinner wearing shoes that don’t match with your belt, simply because you did not have enough pairs to choose from.
But regardless of the surroundings and frequency that prompt you to use these elegant and classic footwear options, you must take into account a few important facts about formal shoes that will help you make the right choice.
-Materials
Men’s formal shoes should be made entirely out of leather. Yes, even the sole. It is a tried and tested material that will be both durable and age well. Quality leather provides just enough insulation from both heat and cold and if you wax it, and protect the leather, it will not crack, crease or wrinkle.
Rubber or crepe soles are to be avoided as although they offer plenty grip, they take away from the formal aspect and feel of your shoes.
-Comfort
Shoes need to be comfortable. Formal shoes even more so. Having your feet hurt within an hour after putting them on will certainly ruin your mood and constantly annoy you throughout the event.
So make comfort your number one priority when picking out a formal shoe. Look for quality non-rigid leather, minimal cushion abilities, and good fit when it comes to foot width. Some manufacturers allow you to choose width size, so be sure you get your foot measured and try them on with appropriate socks. Dress shoes will never be as comfortable as athletic shoes but a great fitting pair can be pretty close.
-Quality
As with all the choices you make, take quality over quantity. You may not be able to recognize a more expensive and better build pair of shoes at first glance, but you would surely be able to understand the difference if you wore one. Certified signs of quality are the use of better grain leather, real stitching and the succession between the stitches, as well as the way the leather binds to the sole. High-quality shoes can last for years, so it is wise to prioritize quality among your search criteria.
-Style
Depending on the ambiance, there are formal shoe options for most of your social and professional needs. Some men prefer the classic oxford or derby while others prefer the monk strap or the loafer. Style comes down to choosing the right shoes to match your dress style. A wise man should have more than one option when it comes to formal shoes even if he doesn’t wear dress shoes daily. More options mean more versatility and fashion taste, and that is exactly the image you want to project.
- Price
When it comes to formal shoes price ranges vary greatly, but as with a good shirt, jacket or suit, you need to budget with your eye firmly on the upper bracket of your disposable income. Shoes are a particularly rewarding investment because they help complement your look, as well as being one of the first things people notice. Having cheap shoes that deteriorate after a couple of times out will only serve you if you are the kind of person that requires formal shoes only to attend weddings and funerals. If you are an iconic man determined to be active, successful, strong and elegant, you need shoes that portray your aspirations.
That doesn’t mean that you should spend ridiculous amounts of money on custom designer shoes, but it does mean the cheap, faux stitch, leather replacement options should never be anywhere near your list.
Try to go for shoes that start somewhere around $200 and be sure you pack a good variety of styles. They are an investment that should be carefully analyzed. That is why we took the liberty of putting together a list of recommendations based on the finest and most fashionable choices, from the most important style categories. These are some of the shoes that check all the boxes.
Source: toboot.com
To Boot New York - Langford Black
This shoe from the American manufacturer To Boot New York is a testimony to simplicity. And as we all know simple things are beautiful, dignified and charming. It is made out of real high grain Italian leather and comes with a simple and comfortable design. The manufacturer provides you with a belt option to match and we can safely say it is one of the best options out there for shoes under $500.
This dapper and simple oxford shoe can be worn on many occasions and paired with your best suits or tuxedos. To Boot New York is famous for quality craftsmanship and elegant design and this shoe is no exception.
No man can go without an Oxford-style shoe and this one will be a good addition to your line-up.
Source: allenedmonds.com
Allen Edmonds - Leeds Shell Cordovan Derby Shoe
The Leeds Shell is a great example of a genuine, well-made plain-toe derby dress shoe. It is part of the Cordovan Collection and it will be a great choice for people that look for comfort and everyday use in a shoe that will perfectly fit with all your suits. This shoe company that operates out of Port Washington, Wisconsin, is famous for providing shoes to the US Army during WW2 and has gained a cult following ever since.
If you are on the look for premium quality, durable, derby shoes, from an upscale manufacturer, look no further than this fine example from Allen Edmonds. You can wear them every day and make them the workhorse of your shoe line-up. You will not be disappointed.
Source: ferragamo.com
Salvatore Ferragamo – Monk Strap
This luxury Italian manufacturer is well known for its shoes, as well as accessories and fragrances. Started in the glory years of Old Hollywood, this beloved brand has maintained its commitment to beauty, style, and elegance.
The monk strap style is very popular in 2019 as almost all major manufacturers have launched their take on it.
These monk strap examples are handcrafted and deliver Ferragamo’s signature superior fit and unparalleled arch support.
The Monk Strap shoes from Ferragamo are a social attire and will be right at home at dinner parties, dates, or fundraisers.
They will complement your look, on any occasion, with elegance and finesse, and will constitute a great all-around choice regardless of the magnitude of your engagements.
Source: louisvuitton.com
Louis Vuitton – Major Loafer
The loafer design is a classic that is still very trendy. It puts comfort above all else and it is as home on a yacht as it is on a business lunch. Loafers are a wise stylish choice for fashionable, laid back
gentlemen that know what their strengths are, and these examples form Louis Vuitton are just the thing you need.
This luxury brand is an international icon worn by the modern and extravagant gentleman who let their style do all the talking. And this is one of the signature style shoes that will be noticed anywhere. It is made from soft calf leather, hand-stitched and uses the Blake construction method, to provide you with the utmost smoothness and assuage.
The Major Loafer is a statement shoe and comes with the brand’s LV initials in the form of stylish metal accessories. They do come in black but the blue will be better suited for all your formal arrangements when a bit of casual is not only possible but encouraged.
Source: wolfandshepherd.com
Wolf & Shepherd – Bannister Patent
This is one example of a black-tie shoe that will not be out of place in the most formal of occasions. Wolf&Shepherd has taken what is essentially a derby design and made it look like something you can wear at an embassy dinner or the Oscars. Their patented leather design is not only easy on the eyes, but it makes just enough of a statement to shine that spotlight on your presence.
These are not subtle accountants shoes, but a powerful elegant formal-wear that has a hidden ace up its heael. They are unbelievably comfortable for a shoe that looks like it belongs on a red carpet. Their patented technology makes these shoes an undercover performance and endurance beast. This technology brought the company a world record for the fastest half-marathon in dress shoes.
They come with things like tongue and heel padding, ultra-soft sheepskin lining, supportive memory foam or laser-cut out-sole.
The Bannister Patent will look great at the most formal events, and they will keep your feet nice and rested with record winning technology. You should have a pair of these remarkable shoes in anticipation of those all-important formal circumstances.
Formal shoes are amongst the best investments you will ever make. Not only because they will make you look smart and dapper but they are key to pulling off any polished look you might need. They may be a little more expensive than your run-of-the-mill, cheap, alternatives but they will be an investment that will yield a tremendous return in the way people perceive you.
If that wasn't enough to convince you, remember that the ladies always keep an eye out for what kind of shoes a man is wearing.
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