How to buy dress shoes for Style, Comfort & Durability

Let’s just face facts and be honest: most men have some trouble with shopping. They either don’t like to shop, succumbing to the “walk in – grab – walk out” mentality, or they do like to shop but still have some trouble knowing what they should get. This rule especially applies to that accessory the other gender fawns over: shoes. When it comes to men’s shoes, it may seem like the only big decision would be brown or black, but there really is so much more to shopping for dress shoes.


Choosing the right shoes for the occasion
The first thing to consider is why you are purchasing the shoes. Are you purchasing them for work, a special occasion or for casual use? It is very important to have a shoe that fits the occasion. Are you looking for shoes that you’ll wear all day? Then you will want to choose a shoe built for comfort. When looking for a comfortable pair of dress shoes, choose a style that has a nice, solid insole and lots of padding. Since most people walk over 4,000 steps per day, it is vital that the arch of your foot, which is a very sensitive spot, is well protected. You are definitely not going to want a shoe that is going to be pinching your toes or putting strain on your arches all day.











On the other hand, if you are buying a dress shoe for a wedding or other fancy occasion, then you will be able to focus a little more on the look. Pinched toes won’t be so bad for a few hours on special occasions that call for formal dress shoes . But don’t think that just because a shoe looks good, it can’t feel good, too.









Shoe Durability

When purchasing a pair of dress shoes for work, purchase a well-made pair that will last. You are definitely not going to want to go shoe shopping again in a month or two. Some important factors to look for as far as durability is concerned are thick soles and strong stitching. A thick sole will help provide great support and protection for your foot, offering some shock absorption for those 4,000 steps. Strong stitching will help with the general wear on your shoes, and require less trips to the shoe repair store.


What color shoes should I buy?
Once practicality and durability are covered, focus on the fashion and look of the shoes. As mentioned before, there are more decisions to make other than just brown or black. But, this is actually a very important decision in itself. It is really best for every man to have a pair of black dress shoes, as well as a pair of brown dress shoes. Why? Brown dress shoes can be worn with earth tones, such as browns, khakis, blues and greens. Black dress shoes can be worn with, obviously, black dress pants and black or grey suits, but also with white or cream-colored pants. If you don’t have the budget to purchase two pairs of dress shoes, then really consider your wardrobe and what colors you wear most often to determine whether brown or black is best for your first and only pair.

Men’s shoe styles
The style of dress shoes you purchase is also very important. There are many different styles to choose from. Oxfords lace up and tie to ensure they stay on your foot. They have closed lacing and have a piece of leather sewn over the toe of the shoe. Monks have no lacing and close by a strap with a buckle. Derbies are similar to Oxfords, but have open lacing and are considered to be a less formal shoe. Loafers are often called slip-ons and have tassels. The formality of your wardrobe (do you wear suits to work every day, or only to weddings and funerals?) and the elegance of the occasion will determine what type of shoe you purchase. Some men have several pair of dress shoes in different colors and styles, while others opt to have just one pair of black and one of brown.










What should I expect to pay for a pair of men’s dress shoes?

Your shoe budget will also play a huge role in the dress shoes you will be able to purchase. Some designer shoes can cost thousands of dollars, and other shoes at discount stores cost single digit prices and then there is everything in between. Cole Haan and Florsheim and Murphy are two popular mid-priced brands, with prices of many styles ranging from $70 to $200. The most important things to know is your financial situation and exactly what you are shopping for. Do not get yourself in over your head when buying shoes. Plan ahead and save if you want that $450 pair of Tod’s; they have been around for a long time and they will be around for years to come.








Since dress shoes are an investment, you may want to try them on in a store to get the perfect fit. But there are great deals to be had online, so if you have a favorite brand, it’s worth checking out stores like shoes.com or Zappo’s, both of which offer free shipping and returns.

The most important thing to remember when buying men’s dress shoes is that it is a really personal matter that needs a lot of research. From the color to the style to the amount of money involved, you need to be keenly aware of the considerations involved in buying shoes. They can truly make or break an outfit, even for a man. And you’ll be wearing them regularly and to some of the most important occasions in your life, so it is extremely important that a lot of thought is put into the dress shoes you buy. If you follow these tips and do your research, you’ll find the perfect pair of shoes. Good luck!