You’ve picked out the perfect outfit, slipped on your favorite watch, and even grabbed a matching hat, but one thing is missing: the right pair of shoes. Footwear can make or break a look, so it’s important to not only have several versatile options but also know how to properly style them.
We know trends can be hard to keep up with, so we’ve got your back, from classic staples to modern twists. Keep reading for a comprehensive guide that will take you from heel to toe on the latest shoe styles for men.
Classic Oxford Shoes
A timeless staple in any wardrobe, Oxfords have been in style for hundreds of years. As their name suggests, they originated with fashion-forward students at the University of Oxford. Since then, Oxfords evolved into the ankle-high shoe we know today.
There are many types of Oxfords to choose from. Consider some of these sophisticated styles:
- Plain-toe Oxfords – Tried and true, these are the most formal and simple Oxfords, with minimal detailing and a sleek finish.
- Cap-toe Oxfords – With an extra piece of leather across the toe box (a cap), these Oxfords add extra flair for formal events.
- Oxford Brogues – Also dubbed brogues, these Oxfords offer a more casual wingtip shape.
- Saddle Oxfords – With a vintage feel, these shoes feature a saddle-shaped layer on top. You’re probably thinking of the signature black-and-white combo, but you can now find saddle Oxfords in a range of colors.
After selecting your favorite Oxfords style, it’s time to nail your outfit.
Prep for Formal Occasion with Oxfords
Once at the forefront of rebellious university fashion, Oxfords have evolved over the years to become essentials for men’s formal wear. Pair Oxfords with a well-fitted suit for an upscale occasion, or wear them with slacks to elevate a casual vibe.
Consider switching up the color or material for more versatility in your wardrobe. Black leather is an elegant staple for a wedding or other black tie event, while brown suede is a chic option with a navy suit for the office. For more stylish options, explore our collection of business casual men’s shoes to complement your look.
Casual Sneaker Essentials
Throughout any climate and season, comfy kicks are a must-have for any wardrobe. Your go-to pair of sneakers can take you from a casual workday to weekend adventures and everything in between.
No matter your vibe, there are lots of sneaker styles to choose from, including:
- High-top
- Low-top
- Slip-on
- Platform
- Athletic
When you find a sneaker you love, consider getting it in several colors to mix and match with different outfit combinations.
Take Your Sneakers to the Next Level
The right sneakers can achieve the best of both worlds: seamlessly complete a casual outfit or effortlessly dress down formal wear. Pair white high-top sneakers with jeans for a clean look with extra ankle support, or colorful low-tops with shorts on a summer day.
For a stylish shoe with all-day comfort, look no further than the Lucas II Lace Up Sneaker, featuring luxe leather uppers, contoured footbeds, and shock absorption cushioning. For more elevated details like a perforated toe and colorful outsole, lace up the Lucas Court Lace Up Sneakers, complete with a built-in VIO MOTIONTM Technology footbed.
Stylish Chelsea Boots
Striking the perfect middle ground between combat and desert boots, the smart-casual Chelsea boot is versatile, confident, and stylish. Often made with a durable sole and waterproof outer material, Chelsea boots are great rainy-day options and travel companions when you want to stay comfortable without sacrificing style.
Why add Chelsea boots to your rotation? Here are just a few perks:
- No laces – Chelsea boots easily slip on and off, making getting ready a breeze.
- Low heel – This small detail is part of the reason that Chelsea boots can easily upgrade a casual outfit.
- Durable sole – No matter the weather or season, you can rely on a Chelsea boot.
- Streamlined design – These sleek, no-frills boots are easy to match with pieces you already have in your closet.
If you’ve seen peers wearing Chelsea boots and wondered how they pulled them off, read on for our expert suggestions.
How to Style Chelsea Boots
Chelsea boots can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. If you’re going for a casual look, try black boots with dark jeans or brown boots with a lighter wash. For a more formal event, complement suede Chelsea boots with a matching blazer, or add the finishing touch to a suit with well-polished leather boots.
Try as we might, the Chelsea boot still hasn’t won you over? The Danfield Lace Up Boot offers a desert boot alternative, featuring soft leather, a removable footbed, and patterned outsole.
To cuff or not to cuff?
The cuffs of your pants, that is. At the end of the day, it all depends on your personal preference—Chelsea boots look just as good with cuffed jeans as they do with straight slacks. Keep in mind that a cuff will add a casual touch to an outfit.
Sophisticated Loafers
A classy pair of loafers is perfect to have on hand for a range of occasions. These laceless slip-on shoes are often made with leather or suede, for a sleek and durable addition to a formal outfit.
You may be thinking, I work from home; sophisticated shoes aren’t for me. However, that’s where loafers come in. Even if you don’t dress up every day, you never know when you’ll be invited to a formal event. An upscale brunch, a graduation, a funeral—there are countless occasions where neither casual sneakers nor sleek dress shoes are appropriate, and loafers step up to the plate.
Styling Tips for Loafers
For a smart-casual look, pair straight-cut jeans with brown loafers and a button-down or polo. If you’re heading to a formal event, wear black leather loafers with dark trousers and a blazer.
That said, the greatest loafers debate remains: with or without socks? Let’s break it down.
- With socks – For formal wear, socks are definitely the way to go. Choose neutral colors that complement your pants or suit.
- Without socks – Dress down an outfit by foregoing socks with your loafers. This option is especially chic and breezy on a summer day.
For a modern casual loafer, try our Thompson Slip On Loafer with a contoured footbed for all-day support.
Sleek Dress Boots
Elevate your formal footwear game with a trendy pair of comfortable boots for men. A more unconventional version of the typical dress shoe, a dress boot shows that you’ve put extra thought into your outfit and are staying ahead of the fashion curve.
Look and Feel Your Best in Dress Boots
Dress boots are chic footwear that can readily be styled up or down. For instance, combine dark wash jeans with a deep chestnut boot for an elevated version of an everyday outfit, or match a polished black dress boot to your belt and blazer for a formal occasion.
A dress boot is a star-of-the-show type of shoe, so make sure to do it justice with the right outfit.
Timeless Dress Shoes
Many of the shoes we’ve already mentioned, from Oxfords to dress boots, can be worn as dress shoes with formal attire.
Now, we’ll take the opportunity to break down key considerations when styling dress shoes.
- Right fit – Contrary to popular belief, dress shoes should not be the most uncomfortable items in your closet. They shouldn’t squeeze, pinch, or constrict your feet. In fact, when they are well-made and properly fitted, dress shoes should be quite comfortable.
- Matching socks – We don’t just mean a matching pair of socks—that should be the first step. Additionally, your socks should match your dress shoes as well as your suit. Stay on the safe side with neutral tones rather than vibrant shades. Insider tip: a fashion faux pas to avoid is white socks with black dress shoes.
- Quality materials – A poorly constructed shoe will not only look tired and drab, but will not stand the test of time. When you’re dressing for success, you don’t want to worry about chipping plastic, loose stitching, or rundown soles. Choose high-quality materials like leather or suede to enjoy your dress shoes for years to come.
Men’s dress shoes come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can choose what fits best with your aesthetic.
Summertime Sandals
Warm days and longer nights always mark a wardrobe transition. Be prepared ahead of time with comfy summer sandals that can take you from a family lunch to a weekend beach trip.
Stay Cool in Stylish Sandals
No socks, no problem. Here are some of our favorite summer shoe styles for men.
- Flip-flops – A poolside staple.
- Slides – Chic yet convenient footwear.
- Gladiators – A sturdy walking sandal.
- Mules – Elevated sandals for formal occasions.
Make sure to seek waterproof options if you’ll wear them to the beach or pool.
Find Everyday Shoes and More at Vionic
Upgrade your footwear game with the wide selection of men’s shoes from Vionic. Made with premium materials and biomechanically designed footbeds, our shoes are designed for all-day arch support and flawless style.
From casual kicks to formal wear, we’ve got you covered. Browse our men’s new arrivals for the hottest trends of 2024.
Sources:
Footwear News. The History of Oxford Shoes: From University Grounds to Red Carpets. https://footwearnews.com/shoes/mens-footwear/history-oxford-shoes-1203600295/.
MasterClass. Guide to Oxford Shoes: Explore the 5 Types of Oxfords. https://www.masterclass.com/articles/oxford-shoe-guide.
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