How To Pick The Perfect Formal Dress Shoes For Men?

There’s a lot that goes into a formal shoe! So, there are a lot of factors to keep in mind while choosing one as well. In this article, we are going to break this process down step by step.

At the end of this article, you will be able to choose between elevator shoes and oxford shoes without a second thought. 

Let’s start with an easy choice!

Formal or Semi-Formal?

This will entirely depend on the occasion, and not much is left to you. If it’s a casual venue, you can still choose to go semi-formal, but for a formal occasion, you will always have to choose the perfect traditional lace-up shoe.

Semi-formal shoes have become quite trendy in recent times, and you can opt for wearing a loafer with jeans instead of your everyday boots! Both these ranges have many different choices. But always make sure that you are dressed for the occasion.

The Material

Formals shoes are primarily made out of two materials, pure leather and suede. If the formal shoe you are planning to buy is not made out of these two materials, then it’s probably a cheap knock-off. If your shoe is made from good leather, then it will be firm and not have any creases on the surface. At the same time, it will also be supplied to the touch. 

Along with the material, you also need to take a good look at the stitching quality of the shoe. Premium quality leather shoes have stitches that are quite visible but can easily be camouflaged as well. 

You should always inspect for blemishes as well when buying a formal shoe. It’s easy to overlook small dents in the leather, only to realise later that your perfect look will be ruined!

How to Check The fit?

There are three primary steps you can follow to ensure that you have bought a shoe that will surely fit you. Of course, this only applies to store-bought shoes, so skip ahead to the next part to read about popular designs if you are ordering online.

Step 1: Walk

Always wear the shoes and walk around to make sure they are comfortable. No part of the shoe should feel stiff around your foot. A premium shoe, be it dress shoes for men, or monk shoes, will always provide comfort to the foot instead of clamping down on it.

Step 2: Wear socks

Wearing socks while trying out the shoe will ensure that its fit is always perfect. Some formal shoes can only be worn with skinny socks. So, this will also give you a better idea about which style you want to choose.

Step 3: Toe movement

Since formal shoes are more linear designs, a bad shoe will not give you enough space for moving your toe freely. So, move your toe up and down to check whether you are making the right choice.

Common Formal Shoe Styles

Oxford shoes: This is the most common type of formal shoe that there is. It gets the name from the university as this is where the style came into existence. If you are attending a strictly formal event, then a formal dress shoe men is a must. Even otherwise, a premium quality Oxford shoe will be the perfect addition to your tuxedo.

Derby shoes: This is quite similar to the Oxford style; however, the positioning of the laces for Derby shoes are different and placed more outwards. While this does make Derby shoes more stylish, many consider them to be slightly non-traditional.

Brogue shoes: These are some of the most flamboyant and stylish formal shoes you will find. Easily recognisable due to their perforations, Brogue shoes are quite hardy and will last you a long time. They are also known for being extremely comfortable and providing lots of toe movement space.

Loafers: The most common type of semi-formal shoes that you will find anywhere, these slip-on are quite the rage in the market. You can find both leather and suede variants; however, only choose the leather if you are keeping the rest of your clothes formal as well.

Monk shoes: Another great design that can be found in both formal and semi-formal styles. Monk shoes usually sport two or sometimes one strap and a metal fastening. They are slightly raised in most cases as well.

Elevator shoes: This is a great choice as it doubles as both a formal dress shoe for men and something to be worn with jeans and tees as well. These rise close to the ankle in height and have a strong heel. Their semi-formal counterpart is not at all suggested as part of a formal wardrobe.

Summing Up

When choosing a premium formal shoe, it’s important that you check all the boxes. These shoes are costly, and you don’t want to end up with a shoe that doesn’t match your style or occasion.

Start by understanding what you need and prefer. Then consider the popular designs that exist. It’s safer to go with the classic designs when choosing a formal shoe since it’s tough to go wrong with the traditional look. But if you are looking for a semi-formal look, then there are many style options that you can choose from.

Make sure that the shoe is either leather or suede, as these are the two premium materials that formal shoes are made from. Pay note to the stitching quality, and then make sure you have the right size for yourself. 

Choosing the perfect formal may seem difficult at first, but the process is quite straightforward. Own a premium formal dress shoe men and maintain a sharp fashion statement!