Guide to Men's Formal Footwear

We all know that comfortable shoes are important for men. Running shoes are not the best option for every situation. These are the models you should choose if you need to wear formal Shoes Men’s Elevator to work or at a formal event.

The Oxford

The Oxford shoe, also known as Balmorals, is one of the most formal shoes for men. The Oxford shoe has a unique lace-up and tie that is characterized by closed lacing. The distinctive shoelace eyelets are placed underneath the upper vamp. The lacing covers the shoe tongue elegantly and discretely. These shoelace eyelets are typically made from leather such as calf leather or patent leather but can also come in suede and in black or dark brown colors. These shoes are typically low- to medium-heeled and can have a leather toe section that covers the toe. This gives them a nice cap. The Oxfords are a formal shoe that can be worn with suits.

The Monk Shoe

The monk shoe, which is second in formality for men, is the most formal. These shoes can be made of leather or suede and, depending on their model, may have a toe cap. However, their main feature is their fastening: they are fastened using decorative straps or buckles. Monk shoes can be found in either black or brown versions. These shoes are more popular for office wear because they have a higher heel but look great with suits.

Derby Shoe

The derby shoe is next on our list. These shoes have an eyelet on the top of the upper vamp and an open lace. This allows the shoe tongue to be seen underneath the shoelaces. Derby shoes are made of leather and come most often in brown colors. These shoes were originally worn as hunting and sporting shoes. However, they became more popular as city shoes and are now part of the formal wardrobe.

Blucher

The blucher shoe is another variation on the derby shoe. This shoe has a vamp made of one piece of leather and open lacing where the tongue can be seen. These shoes were popular in 18th century army uniforms, but they became "not so" and formal enough to be worn on "semi-formal" occasions.

The Brogue

The Brogue is another formal shoe with a low heel. The vamp is made up of multiple pieces of leather that are joined together and fastened with laces. The visible edges of the upper leather pieces have decorative and serrated borders. These shoes have highly decorated toe caps. They can be half brogue, wingtip or quarter brogue. They were originally considered outdoor shoes but are now very popular as dress shoes.

Formal boots

The formal boot is the last type of formal footwear for men. The formal boot is made of black leather and has all the same characteristics as the Oxfords. It can be worn on daytime formal occasions.