Breaking the Shoes code

Although shoes are a staple item in people's wardrobe, would you believe that they have many categories, construction methods, finishes, and painting techniques, making them quite versatile, which needs a bit of study to understand how and when they can be worn? Here is a quick breakdown of the variety of shoes and their uses:

Oxford

Oxford is a classic men's dress shoe that belongs in every man's wardrobe. It features a closed lacing system, which highlights stitching across the bottom. Oxfords also tend to feature a low heel and short back, creating a neat and polished appearance. Perfect for pairing with a suit, Oxfords are a reliable choice for every formal occasion. While black, glossy styles efficiently work for the highest of dress codes, other varieties of Oxfords can suit any number of events.

Derby

Like Oxfords, Derby shoes are another popular type of dress shoe. Slightly less elaborate in design, however, Derbys features an open lacing system, unlike oxford shoes that have the bottom of the lacing section sewn closed. The relaxed style is suitable for most formal occasions, including pairing with a suit. While traditional leather varieties of Derby shoes are perfect for a classic, polished look, other types, in materials such as sartorial fabric, suede, are ideal for a slightly informal look.

Monk Strap

The monk strap shoe is a chic and unique dress shoe. Highlighting a strap across the top and a buckle (or two), the sleek design can be worn with several formal looks for everything from a business meeting to a night out. The popular and fashionable shoe is also an excellent choice for gents seeking a polished style with more interest than the standard Oxford or Derby. Just be sure to choose a leather style with a bit of shine to keep the look refined and pleasantly sharp.

Loafer

Loafers are laceless shoes often featuring a Moccasin-style construction. The comfortable slip-on shoe is perfect for adding a stylishly elegant touch to formal outfits. Although loafers can work with several looks, they pair great with suits, especially those worn with flare. Choose between varieties such as classic Penny loafers, Tassel loafers, or Bit Loafers in leather or patina for a unique and dapper look. 

Brogues 

Brogues is not a separate style of a shoe but a detail on any shoe. The name comes from the process of broguing, which involves adorning shoes with large perforations (pinpricks). As such, an Oxford or a Derby, are often classed as Brogues because of this decorative addition. It may cause some consternation; however, the unique look creates a shoe with personality and style. Best of all, they can be worn with anything from jeans to a suit.

Chelsea Boot

When you think of dress shoes, you may not immediately think of boots; however, you should. After all, when rightly fashioned, boots can provide gents with a great finishing touch to formal looks. Chelsea boots charm a casual look to cocktail attire. The round toe, ankle boots feature elasticated sides that make them easy to slip on and off without laces or buckles. Departing with these traditional fastenings allows Chelsea to create a super sleek and streamlined look.

Chukka Boot

Chukka boots are a classically styled dress boot that finishes at the ankle. Their shorter height means that they feature minimal lacing, creating an uncomplicated appearance. It's this sharp yet straightforward style that also makes Chukka boots ideal for both smart casual and semi-formal dress codes. Although these boots do sometimes appear in traditional leather, it is often featured in suede, which also adds to the shoe's relaxed image.

Slippers

As the name suggests, this category of footwear has gained popularity lately. Predominantly due to variety and diversity on the occasions these are worn. They can be made in or with a combination of linen, velvet, leather, suede, and sartorial woolen fabrics. They are much lighter and easy to slip into for a quick dash in and out. Designer Slippers today are essential in ethnic & ancestral styled clothing. One can embroider slippers with their initials or their favorite motif, making them stand out.

Sneakers

Today Sneakers are everywhere. The brands which were making classic leather shoes have lately started making Sneakers in diverse styles. Sneakers have added a new flair of casualness in lightweight clothing. As summer kicks in, linen and cotton suits are all over town. These complement well with sneakers giving them a trendy and hip look.