How to Choose the Perfect Dress Shoe Style for Men: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top 10 Styles

When it comes to dressing up for an occasion, a man's shoes can make or break his outfit. Choosing the right dress shoe style can be overwhelming, but fear not! In this guide, we will walk you through the top 10 dress shoe styles for men and help you choose the perfect one for your outfit.

Oxford Shoes

Oxford shoes are the most formal and classic dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their closed lacing system and the absence of any decorative elements. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Oxford shoes:

• They are typically black or brown in color
• They are best suited for black tie events, weddings, and other formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Oxford shoes with jeans? While Oxford shoes are typically worn with suits or dress pants, you can also wear them with jeans for a dressier, sophisticated look.

Brogue Shoes

Brogue shoes are another classic dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their decorative perforations and are available in a variety of styles, including full brogues, semi brogues, and quarter brogues. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Brogue shoes:

• They are available in a variety of colors and styles
• They are best suited for semi-formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Brogue shoes with shorts? Brogue shoes are typically worn with pants or suits, and are not recommended to be worn with shorts.

Monk Strap Shoes

Monk strap shoes are a stylish and versatile dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their buckle strap closure and are available in both single and double strap styles. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Monk strap shoes:

• They are available in a variety of colors and styles
• They are best suited for semi-formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Monk Strap shoes with a tuxedo? Monk Strap shoes are not typically worn with tuxedos, and are best suited for semi-formal occasions.

Loafers

Loafers are a comfortable and stylish dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their slip-on design and are available in a variety of styles, including penny loafers, tassel loafers, and horsebit loafers. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Loafers:

• They are available in a variety of colors and styles
• They are best suited for semi-formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Loafers with shorts? Loafers are typically worn with pants or suits, and are not recommended to be worn with shorts.

Dress Boots

Dress boots are a stylish and versatile dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their ankle-length design and are available in a variety of styles, including chelsea boots, chukka boots, and dress boots with laces. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Dress boots:

• They are available in a variety of colors and styles
• They are best suited for semi-formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Dress boots with a suit? Dress boots can be paired with a suit for a dressier look, but make sure the boots are polished and match the color of the suit.

Dress Sandals

Dress sandals are a comfortable and stylish dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their open-toe design and are available in a variety of styles, including gladiator sandals, fisherman sandals, and dress sandals with straps. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Dress sandals:

• They are available in a variety of colors and styles
• They are best suited for semi-formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Dress sandals with socks? Dress sandals are typically worn without socks, but you can wear them with no-show socks for added comfort.

Derby Shoes

Derby shoes are a classic and versatile dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their open lacing system and are available in a variety of styles, including classic Derbies and wingtip Derbies. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Derby shoes:

• They are available in a variety of colors and styles
• They are best suited for semi-formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Derby shoes with shorts? Derby shoes are typically worn with pants or suits, and are not recommended to be worn with shorts.

Dress Sneakers

Dress sneakers are a comfortable and stylish dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their sneakers design and are available in a variety of materials, including leather and suede. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Dress sneakers:

• They are available in a variety of colors and styles
• They are best suited for semi-formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Dress sneakers with a tuxedo? Dress sneakers are not typically worn with tuxedos, and are best suited for semi-formal occasions.

Cap Toe Shoes

Cap toe shoes are a classic and timeless dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their decorative stitching and are available in a variety of colors and materials. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Cap toe shoes:

• They are available in a variety of colors and styles
• They are best suited for semi-formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Cap toe shoes with jeans? Cap toe shoes are typically worn with pants or suits, and are not recommended to be worn with jeans.

Wingtip Shoes

Wingtip shoes are a stylish and versatile dress shoe style for men. They are characterized by their decorative perforations and are available in a variety of colors and materials. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing Wingtip shoes:

• They are available in a variety of colors and styles
• They are best suited for semi-formal occasions
• They are versatile and can be paired with both suits and dress pants

FAQ: Can I wear Wingtip shoes with shorts? Wingtip shoes are typically worn with pants or suits, and are not recommended to be worn with shorts.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect dress shoe style for men can seem overwhelming, but with this comprehensive guide, you should be able to find the perfect pair for any occasion. Remember to keep in mind the formality of the event, the color and style of your outfit, and the versatility of the shoe style. With these tips, you'll be stepping out in style in no time!