As we know, a quality leather upper shoe can be polished, refurbished and brought back to life several times over, just like a Goodyear or Norweigian construction which can be re-soled every couple years, which can make even an old tattered pair of shoes look and feel almost brand new. This is the concept I will be speaking of in regards to buying quality men’s dress shoes. Always focus on fit and comfort, and only buy timeless designs that will last and focus on versatile fabrics that can be worn with most of your wardrobe.
Below are 6 Simple Guide To Men’s Dress Shoes and Their Style Of Lace-up
The Wingtip Dress Shoe
This is a classic go-to as a wingtip, it is generally sleeker and more elongated than the captoe. For this reason I find captoes better for guys with larger feet, and heavier body types. Sleek wingtips like these which I’ve had since college have a narrow classic vibe which best with slim tailoring, lightweight fabrics, and trimmer body types.
The Captoe Dress Shoe
This simple captoe is your most basic, conservative dress shoe. If you’re looking for a workhorse for your day-to-day business attire, you can’t go wrong with a pair of embellished captoes in chocolate brown and black leather. Look for a pair with a thin, sleek leather sole and toe box with an elegant shape that follows that natural lines of your foot.
The Wholecut
Wholecut or seamless shoes are made from one solid, beautiful piece of leather. For this reason, they are more luxurious and eye-catching. Wholecut are sleek, sexy, minimal, and have become the go-to style for the modern gentleman’s formal wear – as patent dress shoes have lost traction due to their lack of versatility. These can be worn with suits and tuxedos – simply keep them freshly shined.
Spectator Dress Shoes
The spectator is a wingtip brogue comprised of two different colours and fabrics. Typically the toe, heel cap and lace panels are rendered in a darker fabric than the quarters of the shoes. This old-school shoe, popularised in 1920s and 1930s, is generally reserved for special occasions and events that require semi-formal attire. With that said, there’s no reason a sleek modern pair can’t be the perfect match for a killer suit.
The Exotic Dress Shoes
If your motive is to stunt on them, an exotic skin is the boldest move. Weather it’s crocodile, alligator or ostrich, exotic skins are often considered a display of wealth. Keep in mind there come with certain connotations, and can turn some people off. Think of then as an expensive vehicle, there’s a time and place for it.
Derby Dress Shoes
Derby shoes are characterised by their round toe shape and the eyelets sewn to the exterior of the vamp, are generally considered a casual shoe. This style has a sporting and hunting background, which was popular in 1850s . They are also popular in light buckskin suedes, traditionally known as bucks. These shoes are not meant for dress attire. Save them for jeans, seasonal trousers and business causl dress.
In conclusion, no matter the style of dress shoes you decide to invest in, remember to keep them polished, give them a day rest and fully dry between wears, and always keep cedar shoe trees in them when they are not on your feet.
