Shoe Options for Men in Business

Men have the option of the traditional lace-ups such as oxfords, brogues, capped toes, wing tips, or slip-ons. The laced shoe is the most professional shoe for men in business and dressier than the slip-on. In fact, the laced shoe is considered by many to be the only option when wearing a business suit, especially in the most traditional professions.

Slip-on shoes should be simple in style and of top quality leather. For business in general, avoid styles that have a lot of details, any metal branding or design motifs. The simple tassel style is recommended only for men working in a more relaxed business environment.

Shoes should be made of leather both for the upper part and for the soles. Thick rubber soles only make you like a ‘backroom Boy’, regardless of how comfortable they might be. Choose good quality calfskin leather shoes with a leather lining which allows your feet to breathe, and are most comfortable.

The most appropriate colour for shoes is black. Cordovan (a reddish-black- burgundy), Oxblood, maroon or dark brown are also acceptable in many businesses. Beware of light colours or trendy fashion colours like moss green or true blue that sneak in once in a while among the offerings in men’s’ shoe stores. As great as they look, these fad colours are short lived and for casual wear only, never in business.

Men looking for something lighter or cooler to wear to work during the hot season can choose a lighter leather slip-on or lightweight lace-ups. Simple styles in good quality leather are business appropriate and acceptable in more casual work environments or on casual Fridays.