Today, a lot of people are constantly searching for great ways to achieve their goals of looking and feeling their best. However, this might prove to be a difficult task if you do not know where to start and what tools you need to use. To help you look and feel your best, one of the most effective ways is to wear the type of shoes that suits your personality.
However, it is also necessary to wear a pair of shoes that are suitable for the occasion. For this reason, it is highly recommended that you conduct some research before deciding on any pair of shoes. You may refer to a comprehensive guide about the different types of shoes for men. This way, you’ll be able to check some important details for each type of men’s shoes.
Below is a list of the most popular types of men’s shoes. These would hopefully get you started on the path towards selecting the perfect pair for every occasion:
Oxford Shoes
This type of men’s shoes is originally from Ireland and Scotland. Oxford shoes are laced shoes with shoelace eyelets that are stitched underneath the vamp. Historically, this type of shoes was made of plain leather. However, they’re now available in a wide variety of colors, materials, and embellishments. These shoes look elegant that make them ideal for formal occasions.
Oxford shoes are versatile and timeless, being a favorite choice for men all over the world. Some even wear them for semi-formal or casual occasions, hence making them a necessary staple in every male wardrobe.
Typically, oxford shoes are regarded as a basic and class version of dress shoes. The name actually came from Oxford University, where half-boots named Oxonians were popular in the 1800s. At the turn of the century, Oxonians were looked upon as outdated. With the invention of oxfords, students were able to get something more modern and stylish.
If you want to wear oxfords for business purposes, go for a tan, black, dark brown, or cordovan leather. For everyday attire, any color would do in suede or leather. On more formal occasions like a dinner or wedding, black patent leather would always make a good impression.
Monk Strap Men’s Shoes
Monk strap shoes for men do not make use of shoelaces. They are typically closed by a strap and buckle. When it comes to formality values, this type of shoes for men is between derby shoes and oxford shoes. Monk strap shoes may come with one or two straps, so you can choose the style that seems best. However, the strap of these shoes can be considered an accessory. This is why it’s ideal to use two straps if your foot is a bit on the heavy side. If your feet are thin or slim, one strap should be enough.
With a simple design and a closed toe, such shoes offer more protection than regular sandals. Most people probably won’t consider these shoes to be on the formal side. After all, their simplicity was part of why monks used to wear them at one point. However, they’re also seen as a nice alternative to dress shoes or anime shoes, adding a unique flair to formal outfits.
The style of monk strap shoes is also quite versatile. You can wear them with blue jeans, dapper suits, and even work outfits. They’re sure to attract attention and even pull a whole ensemble together. The materials for such shoes are usually suede or leather, sometimes sporting decorative broguing.
Derby Shoes
Derby shoes are laced shoes. The eyelet tabs for shoelace are attached on top of a one-piece vamp. This type of shoes for men is considered to be less formal as compared to oxford shoes. This is because of the open laces, which let the shoes open wide, hence making them easier to wear. However, they are not ideal for “business casual” shoes.
The usual preference for derby shoes is for casual wear. However, there is another variety of derby shoes (especially with leather soles) that are worn for more formal events.
Derby shoes are also dubbed bluchers or Gibsons. They were originally meant to be a boot for hunting or sporting during the 1850s. When the 20th century arrived, derby shoes or derbies were considered to be decent footwear for everyday tasks. Some might mistake derbies for oxfords, as the two styles have a similar shape with very few differences.
The main difference between a derby and an oxford is how their faces are places. The derby has a facing that’s stitch right on top of the shoe’s vamp. On the other hand, in the Oxford, you can find the tabs stitched underneath the vamp. Hence, derbies have an open lacing that could open up to allow wider fits. This means that derbies are actually more comfortable, while the oxfords have a more streamlined, smooth design.
Wingtips and Brogues
These shoes are almost similar to each other except for certain specific qualities. Wingtip shoes have a ‘W’ design found on the toecap. On the other hand, brogues are shoes which have perforations on them. These perforations allow for water drainage in case you step into a puddle or the shoes get damp for any other reason.
Moccasins and Loafers
These are basically slip-on men’s shoes that never go out of style. These two types of shoes only differ in their place of origin and cut. Loafers have a distinct heel design. They are also available in a wide range of designs, making it difficult to choose which ones to wear in formal or casual events. However, the material and color will help you identify which shoes to use on a certain occasion.
Conclusion
Men’s shoe fashion is surprisingly diverse and varied. The different types of men’s shoes are right at your toe’s tips rather than your fingertips. Your choice only depends on your needs and taste. Still, one should be aware of the different shoe material and designs, which determine whether a shoe is for formal, casual, work, or recreational use.