Essentials: The 8 Shoes Every Man Needs

This is a guide to dressing your feet - 8 footwear style must-haves. Think of these shoes as the foundation of your below-the-knee style throughout the year, no matter the occasion.

Oxford Shoes

Oxford shoes are laced shoes characterized by shoelace eyelet tabs that are stitched underneath the vamp. Oxfords are timeless and formal. They have an elegant feel to them and go great with suits.

Oxford shoes can also be dressed down. If you're feeling adventurous, throw in a pair of sleek oxfords into your go-to casual outfit.

Brogues or Derby Shoes

Brogues are actually any shoes that have perforations on them. Historically, these perforations used to let the water out which would flood the shoes in the Scottish and Irish weather. Brogues with perforations and a W shape design on the toe cap are called full brogues (without the perforations they'd be called wingtips).

Consider brogues your workhorse shoes. They go well with everything from jeans to suits and appropriate for everything except for very dressy occasions. But you have a pair of oxford shoes for those.

Derby shoes have the shoelace eyelet tabs sewn on top of a single-piece vam

Think of them as your business casual shoes. They are a little less formal than oxfords, because the open lacing allows the shoe to open wider, and as a result they are easier to put on.

Double Monks

Monks strap shoes have no lacing and are closed by a buckle and strap. There is no rule to wearing one or two straps, but the double monk has a bit more flair to it.

Double monks are a staple to a stylish wardrobe. This is a shoe that will get you compliments and can easily become the focal point of an ensemble.

Chukka Boots

A chukka boot is a great basic shoe. It blends seamlessly within a variety of outfits and is your go-to option for a casual everyday getup.

Worn-in suede chukka boots have character and tell a story. They're perfect for lazy days and smart casual occasions alike.

Casual Boots

A great pair of casual boots will work well in both relaxed outfits and more formal, classy looks.

Look for a pair of boots that is sleek but also has a rugged feel to it. They'll integrate well in a suited look because, you know, uniforms look best when they're messed with.

Boat Shoes

Boat shoes, or topsiders, are a warm-weather essential. An ideal combination of smart and casual, boat shoes are stylish and extremely comfortable for everyday wear, which makes them a welcome addition to every man's summer wardrobe.

Pair your boat shoes with shorts for a laid-back summer look or jeans for an effortless and contemporary effect.

Sneakers

Every guy needs a pair of understated, off-duty sneakers. A low-key pair of sneakers is extremely versatile. Wear them with chinos, jeans and shorts or as a strategic addition to dress down a suited look.

If you work out or run, add a pair of athletic shoes to the list. Athletic shoes can be worn outside the gym too - with jeans or even dress pants. But an outfit like that has attitude and you better have the moxie to back it up.

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