These days, given the vast universe of shoe designs for men, it’s never been more difficult to decide how to step out into the world in the right footwear. Whether you’re looking to build a whole new wardrobe, trying to find the perfect gift for that special someone, or just trying to put a decent outfit together, we’ve got all the footwear options you could need.

Selecting appropriate footwear isn’t just about fashion; it’s about functionality and appropriateness for the occasion. From making a statement at formal events to ensuring comfort during athletic pursuits, the right shoes can elevate an outfit and contribute to overall confidence and comfort. Learning about male footwear is truly game-changing!

What Kind of Mens Shoes Are in Style?

Classic Dress Shoes 

Looking for the perfect pair of shoes to make a great first impression? A sleek pair of dress shoes is the way to go. Whether you’re suiting yourself for a wedding, date night or a special event, you can’t go wrong with these sophisticated shoes for men that look as great as they feel on the feet. But don’t limit this formal footwear to special occasions only. A pair of classic dress shoes can revamp a casual outfit without a lot of effort put into it.

Oxfords

Oxford shoes are a timeless shoe style known for their closed lacing system. They typically feature a low heel and a sleek, elegant silhouette, providing a sophisticated look. They’re ideal for formal events, business settings, weddings, and sophisticated occasions, and you can easily style them. Pair black Oxfords with a tailored suit for formal events. Brown Oxfords work well with business casual outfits or can be dressed up for semi-formal occasions.

Derby Shoes

Derby shoes, also known as Bluchers, resemble Oxfords but have an open lacing system. The shoelace eyelets are stitched on top of the vamp, offering more room and flexibility compared to Oxfords. As such, they’re suitable for business casual, semi-formal, and smart-casual settings. Styling is easy: Pair with slacks or tailored pants for a polished yet relaxed look. They can be worn with or without a tie, depending on the dress code.

Monk Straps

Monk strap shoes lack laces and instead use buckles or straps across the upper. They can have single or double straps, adding a touch of uniqueness to formal attire. They’re suitable for business casual to semi-formal events. Style-wise, you can pair single-strap monk shoes with trousers and a blazer for a sophisticated appearance. Double-strap monk shoes can add a slightly edgier vibe to tailored outfits.

Loafers 

Loafers offer versatility and can transition seamlessly between casual, smart-casual, and semi-formal settings. The key is to choose the right style and pair them appropriately with the rest of your outfit to create a cohesive and stylish look. They’re fit for various occasions such as business-casual settings, formal events, casual outings, and even beachside events.

How to Style Loafers 

For an informal setting, opt for more casual loafers, such as suede or leather loafers with minimal detailing. Pair them with jeans, chinos, or shorts for a laid-back yet stylish appearance. Recommended Styles: Penny loafers or drivers are excellent choices for casual occasions due to their versatile and relaxed look.

For dressier occasions, elect more elegant and polished loafers, like black or dark brown leather penny loafers, to complement formal attire. Wear them with tailored suits or dressier trousers for a contemporary take on formalwear. Recommended Styles: Penny loafers with a sleek design or tassel loafers in classic colours can add a touch of sophistication to your formal ensemble.

For summer getaways, consider wearing loafers without socks or with no-show socks for a breezy and relaxed feel. Opt for lighter materials like suede or canvas loafers. Pair them with linen pants, rolled-up chinos, or casual shorts for a stylish summer look. Recommended Styles: Boat shoes or suede loafers in lighter shades are perfect choices for summer occasions due to their comfort and summery aesthetic.

Chelsea Boots

Chelsea shoes for men are known for their iconic slip-on design, typically featuring elastic side panels and a loop or tab at the back for easy wear. They boast a sleek, minimalistic appearance with a close-fitting ankle and a low, stacked heel, making them a timeless footwear choice.

How to Pair Chelsea Boots with Different Outfits

Formal Attire – Chelsea boots in black or dark brown leather pair exceptionally well with suits or formal wear. They offer a sophisticated alternative to traditional dress shoes and bring a contemporary edge to formal attire.

Smart-Casual – For a semi-formal look, combine Chelsea boots with tailored trousers, a button-up shirt, and a blazer. Opt for suede Chelsea boots for a slightly more relaxed yet stylish appearance.

Casual Outfits – These types of boots effortlessly complement casual attire such as jeans or chinos. Pair them with a T-shirt and a leather jacket for an effortlessly cool look.

Layered Styles – They also work well with layered outfits, such as combining them with a sweater, a scarf, and a pea coat during colder seasons.

Sneakers

Sneakers are well known for their versatility, providing comfort and style for various occasions. These types of shoes for men are constantly taking over the fashion industry. They offer excellent support and cushioning, making them suitable for extended periods of wear. While there were a handful of sneaker models taking over 2023, you don’t have to stick to those if they’re not quite up your alley. Sneakers have evolved beyond just athletic footwear and have become a fashion statement in their own right. 

Tips for Styling Sneakers

• Everyday Outfits: Pairing sneakers with jeans, chinos, or shorts creates a relaxed and trendy look for everyday wear.
• Athleisure Style: Combining sneakers with athleisure wear, like joggers or sweatpants, offers both comfort and a stylish appearance.
• Smart-Casual: Elevate a smart-casual outfit by pairing tailored trousers or a blazer with minimalist, sleek sneakers.
• Monochrome Look: Wearing sneakers in a similar colour palette as the rest of the outfit creates a cohesive and modern appearance.
• Experimenting with Colours and Textures: Mixing and matching sneakers with different colours, patterns, or textures can add flair to an outfit.

Key Takeaway

Men’s footwear fashion continues to evolve, embracing a blend of traditional styles with contemporary innovations. The lines between formal and casual are blurring, allowing for more versatility and creativity in styling. In conclusion, the diversity in men’s shoe styles caters to different tastes, occasions, and functionalities. The evolving trends reflect a fusion of classic elegance with modern practicality, giving men a wide spectrum of options to express their style while ensuring both comfort and fashion-forward choices.