How to Find The Right Men's Shoes to Match Your Outfit

Paying attention to footwear is just as important as picking out your clothes for the day, as the right pair can make or break your look. Whether you're dressing for a formal event, a business meeting, or a casual outing, the right choice of footwear can elevate your outfit and leave a lasting impression. With an abundance of options available, it can feel overwhelming to navigate the world of men's shoes. In the face of all the variety, many tend to retreat to their staple, favorite pair over and over, making their style fall flat. Fear not, as this article will serve as your guide to finding the right men's shoes that seamlessly match your outfit. From color coordination to style selection, I’ll provide you with tips and tricks to help you put your best foot forward.

Business 

In business wear, the right staple dress shoe will determine the overall success of your look. Consider the dress code of your workplace or specific event you’re attending, and align your shoe choice with its level of formality. For weddings, black tie events, or business formal work environments, you will likely frequent a classic suit or blazer look, which should likewise be paired with classic shoes. The most iconic and timeless of the options are oxfords, derbies, and monk straps. These shoes are sleek, and exude elegance, making them a perfect choice for formal occasions. Staple neutral variations in either will serve you well, as they may be alternated between to coordinate with your range of suiting options. Black shoes are the most formal and pair well with dark-colored suits, while brown shoes work well with earth tones, navy, or lighter suits. Investing into quality pairs from reputable brands, will not only assure a finer look, but more ease and durability as well. A few choice pairs should last you a lifetime. Ensuring proper fit is pivotal, any constriction in the toe box or lack of support can cause significant discomfort or pain. Remember, you'll be wearing them for extended periods of time, so comfort is essential. Lastly, pay attention to details, such as subtle stitching, a polished finish, or brogueing to accentuate your own personality and style preference, differentiating your look from the masses.

Business Casual

For semi-formal settings, the range of options is significantly broadened to include boat shoes, loafers, and boots. These styles strike a balance between formal and casual, adding a touch of sophistication to your look. Boat shoes are a versatile choice for a relaxed yet refined look. They provide a nautical aesthetic, and combine beautifully with chinos or khakis and a button-down shirt, giving off a polished but laid-back vibe. Alternatively, pair them with white or navy trousers, a striped breton shirt, and a navy blazer for a classic maritime-inspired outfit. Loafers, on the other hand, are more office-appropriate. They can be worn with dress slacks or tailored trousers, along with a blazer or a sweater for a stylish and professional appearance. Chukka boots range from rugged to elegant options. They come in various materials such as leather, suede, or even velvet, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Pair them with dark jeans, a button-down oxford shirt, and a lightweight jacket or a casual blazer for a comfortable day-to-night look.

Casual

When it comes to casual outfits, you have more freedom to experiment with different shoe styles. Sneakers and canvas shoes are all popular choices that can be paired with jeans, chinos, or shorts. Sneakers are regarded as the most versatile and comfortable option for casual wear. They come in various styles, including low-top, high-top, and slip-on, and are available in a wide range of colors and materials. I recommend having white sneakers in your wardrobe at all times, as the timeless classic that can be paired with anything from sweatpants to suits. Their neutrality makes them the ideal pairing for any color. Canvas slip-ons are lightweight, summer-friendly shoes that originated in the Mediterranean. They feature a canvas or cotton upper and a jute rope sole. These are perfect for warm weather and pair well with shorts, linen pants, a short-sleeved button-up, or a polo. They provide a laid-back and beachy vibe to your look without the discomfort of exposing your toes in sandals. 

In order to have a fully actualized closet, having an expansive men’s shoe collection is pivotal. Maintain a few colors in each category to make sure you have a pair to match any outfit. Prioritize neutral colors like black, brown, and tan, then factor in navies, whites, and grays to have a well-rounded palette. Stately’s Regal Plan includes a pair of shoes in every package. It’s the best value plan to start with to receive Premium apparel and the right shoes to match your outfit. Sign up or upgrade your plan today!

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