Formal shoes guide: Find the right pair for every occasion.

by: April Anne Villena

It’s necessary for every dapper man or style beginner to know his dress shoes basics. At one point, any guy will have to put on a suit and dress up promptly so it’s always best to have the right formal shoes on the ready. From semi-casual styles up to the fanciest among the bunch, dress shoes come in different types.

Let’s break down the types of formal or dress shoes and talk about which one goes with what you choose to wear.

The Oxford Balmoral Shoes

It’s the classic and most basic of all dress shoes types. Also called Balmorals in England, Oxfords give a classy minimalist appeal, which makes them the perfect shoe to go with almost everything. Notable features of Oxford Shoes are their closed-lacing wherein the quarters and facing are secured under the vamp.

Black and dark brown oxfords in standard leather are perfect for corporate wear and highly polished and shiny balmorals go well with formal occasions when you’re wearing a tux or a suit. Semi-formal and everyday oxfords look best when you have them in cognac, chestnut, burgundy or other lighter elegant brown tones.

The Derby, Gibson and Blucher Shoes

The derby shoe, a.k.a. the Gibson or the Blucher originated in 1850’s initially as a sporting and hunting boot. Eventually, the derby became acceptable as to wear long with everyday clothing. It’s often mistaken as oxfords but the most distinct difference is that the derby has open-lacing with the facing and quarters stitched on top of the vamp.

If you’re thinking of getting your own pair of derbies, make sure to treat them right and pair them with smart casual looks. Khakis and chino pants paired with button down shirts are typically the perfect outfit to pair a derby with.

The Monk Strap

It’s fairly easy to spot the monk strap as a type of dress shoe. Monk straps originate from Europe and are void of the lace up detailing of the oxford or derby shoe. The straps are fastened across the front of the shoe with either a single or double buckle closure.

This dress shoe typically demands more styling and attention so if your cuffed jeans and totally dapper outfits need a touch of uniqueness, go for the monk strap.

The Dress Boots

For a rugged touch, dress boots ought to do the trick. The high cut and longer shaft of the dress boot are the perfect footwear for cold weather. There are different types of dress boots depending on cut, design, and features.

Oxford and Derby Boots

Oxford and Derby Boots follow the style and design of either oxfords or derby but with a longer shaft and hides the ankles.

Chukka Boots

Chukka boots are for more casual looks. Minimal in stitching and design, these boots have open-lacing and only has two to four eyelets.

Chelsea Boots

The Chelsea boots have elastic sides so they’re very easy to slip on. From its Victorian England roots to its revival in 1960s Mod trend up to The Beatles and Harry Styles loving rocking their own pair of Chelseas, these boots offer an incredibly clean look that go well with either denim skinnies or tailored suits.

Loafers and Moccasins

These were first intended as casual house slippers during the time of King George VI in England. Up until today, both the loafers and moccasins are used for everyday wear and are easy to slip on. The types include the tassel, the penny and the bit loafer that all make great alternatives to sneakers for casual outfits.

About Broguing

To set things straight, brogue is not exactly a kind of shoe. It’s more of a design that comes in various pattern of perforations put on men’s dress shoes. Broguing is seen in styles like the oxford, derby, and monk strap and often provides the shoe a more casual touch.