Men's Dress Shoes: The Complete Guide To Finding the Right Pair for Any Occasion

Men's Dress Shoes: The Complete Guide To Finding the Right Pair for Any Occasion

To any modern-day gentleman, shoes are as important as any other piece of apparel. Whether you are a sneakers guy or more of an oxfords guy, the kind of shoes you choose to put on for any occasion will play a significant part in defining your style.


When looking for men's dress shoes that will make a style statement, there are so many different options available that it can be difficult to know which pair is the perfect fit for your needs. Whether you are shopping for formal occasions or semi-formal events, HolloShoe has got you covered with our complete guide on men's dress shoes.


In this article, we'll provide tips on how to choose the right pair of men's dress shoes based on style, fit, and comfort, as well as offer suggestions on what type of men's dress shoe goes best with different outfits. Get ready to look dapper, sharp, and stylish in no time!


Types of Dress Shoes for Men


There is a myriad of different types of dress shoes for men to choose from, each with its own unique style. Depending on the occasion and your outfit of choice, you can use this guide to pick the right men's dress shoes that will help you make a statement. (This list isn’t exhaustive, but it gives a starting point with a selection of the best dress shoes for men)

1.Oxford Shoes

Also known as Balmorals, oxfords are considered one of the most classic men's dress shoes for formal occasions. They feature a low-cut, lace-up design and give off a sleek and polished look, which is why they are often the shoe of choice for men attending weddings or other black tie events.


Oxford shoes have quite a history in fashion and have been around since the 1800s. They were worn since the time of Beau Brummell, who is considered one of the greatest influencers of men's wear, and are still worn today. 


With time the make and design of oxford shoes have improved to offer more comfort and even a classier look. Due to their versatility and timelessness, oxfords are the most popular dress shoes and are also considered more formal.

2.Derby Shoes

Similar to oxfords, Derbies also feature a low-cut and lace-up design. The difference between the two is that derbies feature an open lacing system, meaning that the laces are not sewn directly into the shoes. This makes them slightly less formal than oxfords but still gives off an elegant and sophisticated look.

Derby shoes are a great choice for men attending semi-formal events such as work dinners or office parties, where you still want to wear something formal but may not need to be overly dressed up. They also make a great alternative to oxfords when you are looking for men's dress shoes that don't appear too formal or stuffy.

3. Loafers

Loafers are the perfect men's dress shoes for men looking for convenience and style in one package. This slip-on style shoe is an easy choice when you are running late and still want to look your best. Loafers have a more casual vibe, which makes them the ideal men's dress shoes for men who are looking for a shoe that is comfortable and stylish at the same time.


These men's dress shoes can be paired with just about any outfit, from casual jeans to more formal suits. They also come in various styles and colors, giving you plenty of options when it comes to choosing men's dress shoes for any occasion.

4. Brogues

Brogue shoes are another men's dress shoe option that features a perforated design along the toe and sides of the shoe. This style is considered to be more casual than oxfords or derbies but can still offer a smart look when paired with the right outfit.

These men's dress shoes are a great choice for men who want to add a bit of personality and style to their outfits. They are also ideal shoes for men attending semi-formal occasions such as garden parties or cocktail events.

5. Monk Straps 

Another popular shoe and one that makes a statement is the monk strap. This men's dress shoe is a good in-between choice for men who want something dressier than a loafer but not as formal as an oxford or derby. It features a buckle closure and comes in various colors and styles, making it suitable for men attending different events.


Monk straps are an excellent men's dress shoe option for men who want a more contemporary look, especially when paired with a casual suit or blazer.

6. Boots

Although men's dress shoes typically lean towards the more formal side, boots are an exception. This men's dress shoe can be worn for formal occasions such as weddings or dinner parties as well as less formal events such as weekend outings.


Boots come in many different styles and colors, from classic Chelsea boots to more contemporary offerings. When choosing men's dress shoes, boots can be a great option if you want to add something unique and stylish to your outfit.


Choosing the Right Pair of Men's Dress Shoes: Tips and Tricks


Now that you know what types of men's dress shoes are available, here are some tips and tricks on how to pick the right pair for any occasion.


Consider the Occasion

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a pair of dress shoes is the occasion. For formal events such as weddings or black-tie dinners, men should choose a pair of men's dress shoes that are more on the formal side, such as oxfords or derbies. For semi-formal occasions, men can choose shoes with a bit more personality, like monk straps or loafers.


Comfort is Key

No matter what men's dress shoes you choose, comfort should always be a priority. Men should look for dress shoes that are comfortable and provide enough cushioning to keep their feet in good condition all day long. It is also advisable to look for men's dress shoes that have a breathable lining to reduce sweat and keep feet cool.


Style Matters

When choosing men's dress shoes, men should always consider the style of their outfit. For formal occasions, men can go for more classic styles such as oxfords or derbies in black or brown. 


For semi-formal events, men can choose men's dress shoes in brighter colors or patterns. For more casual events, men can opt for loafers or boots in different color combinations and styles.


At HolloShoe, we understand the importance of men's dress shoes and offer a wide selection of styles and sizes to choose from. Whether you are looking for men's dress shoes for a formal or semi-formal occasion, HolloShoe has you covered – visit our website today to find the perfect pair!

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