Shopping for shoes can be a nightmare. There is so much choice, and so many different occasions to think about, that it can be hard to figure out what you need, and what you don’t.
A good pair of shoes can be the difference between a great first impression and a terrible one. Make sure that your footwear is up to the task by ensuring that you have these three styles.
The Brogue
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The brogue is a beautifully versatile shoe. Originating in Scotland and Ireland, it has become a shoe that the modern man should not be without. The traditional punch-hole detail on the upper of the shoe gives it a distinction above and beyond other smart shoes.
A pair of black brogues can be smart, and smart casual depending on how you style them. Opt for a brown pair and they will go with a whole range of hues that you already have in your wardrobe.
Make sure to give your brogues the care that they need, and they’ll last longer and improve with age. Choose a polish that has beeswax or carnauba wax in it as it will nourish the shoe and keep it looking good.
The Oxford
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For really smart occasions, there’s only really one shoe to turn to – the Oxford. Sleek and simple, it’s a classic shoe that complements any formal wear perfectly, from a black tie tux to a job interview suit. With closed lacing, and eyelets on the inside, it looks beautiful and minimalist.
Go for a black pair and you’ll have a pair of shoes for every formal occasion. Ensure that you shine your Oxfords before you wear them to keep them looking tip top. They don’t have to be expensive either, as you can get smart black Oxford shoes from a variety of online stores at competitive prices.
The Loafer
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The loafer used to be a house shoe, back when it was designed for King George VI. It was also the shoe of choice for the mods in the early sixties, so it is a shoe with lots of history behind it.
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Elegant and paired down, it is perfect for smart and smart-casual outfits, just like the brogue. Ideal for summer wear – mainly because it doesn’t fair well when wet – the loafer works well with a button down and chinos as well as a linen suit.
I think the shoes in the image labeled “The Oxford” are actually Derbys. They have open lacing.