Look smart in the best men's shoes
From business shoes to sneakers, the right pair of footwear can seriously make or break your outfit. Don't make the mistake of thinking that all men's footwear is the same. A pair of leather brogues are very different from low shoes like loafers or Oxfords – and it's always a good idea to have options. Of course, every wardrobe should have some sports shoes, too. Trainers give men one of the best opportunities to show off their personality. You might want a retro canvas style for a low-key, indie rock-style look; alternatively, go for bright white sneakers that are reminiscent of the 80s heyday of hip hop, or try chunky, oversized trainers that are thoroughly modern. Look out for sustainable shoes, too; these eco-friendly brands will let you show off your green credentials.
Choosing shoes for men: The office and formal events
For the office, you'll want some pairs of leather shoes. If you're not confident in your ability to choose good shoes for men, stick with the classic brogue at first. This is a great style that can comfortably take you to evenings and formal events, too. Generally speaking, when you're choosing a pair of leather shoes, the darker they are, the more formal. Think about the trousers you usually wear: Black footwear with navy pants is a serious fashion faux pas! If you'd rather keep things a little more casual, or you work in an office with a less formal dress code, you can go for a pair of light tan brogues. These are the definition of smart casual!
How to style your shoes
In summer, show off shoes for men by rolling up the cuffs of your trousers. Make sure you're wearing shoe liners. You don't want to have your socks poking out unless you're wearing trainers. On the other hand, unless it's sandal season, going sock-free is never a good idea if you want to keep your footwear fresh! If you're not a fashion expert, don't worry. Follow a few simple rules to ensure that you always look on point. Go for lighter coloured open shoes in summer, and darker in winter. Make sure your trousers are the right length: Ankle swingers aren't going to impress anybody. Remember to polish them regularly and, if you go for leather brogues, Oxfords or boots, wear them a couple of times to break them in for comfort.
Gaius Okami
