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There are a few wardrobe staples that every man needs. Among them are a classic white button-up shirt, a pair of white trainers, a pair of Chelsea boots and a well-tailored suit. However, arguably one of the most important on the list is a quality pair of dress shoes.
No matter your personal style or aesthetic, investing in a pair of well-made dress shoes is a must. Whether you’re going to a job interview or attending a formal event like a wedding, none of your outfits will matter if your shoes are missing. Dress shoes literally have the power to make or break any look.
There are tons of styles and brands with options that perfectly match what you are looking for. To make your shopping experience much easier, we’ve picked the 12 best dress shoes you can buy and separated them into categories:
If you have wider feet and need options up to size 16, the best seller Rothy’s Driving Moccasins and the Cole Haan OriginalGrand Ultra Wingtip Oxford are the ones to buy.
For those who are about to get married or need the best shoe for a black tie affair, the Suitsupply Black Tuxedo Shoe is the absolute best choice. It perfectly complements a tuxedo and its soft, textured velvet upper adds a touch of luxury to your overall look.
If you like a bargain and prefer a sale option but still high quality, the customer favorite Johnston & Murphy Stockton Plain Toe Oxford is currently on clearance for just $80 at DSW.
1. Best Classic Pick: Cole Haan Modern Classics Wingtip Oxford$300
Cole Haan is one of the world’s leading shoe brands for a reason. It is best known for making high quality dress shoes that are both extremely comfortable and stylish, and its Modern Classics Wingtip Oxford embodies both elements perfectly.
Available in black and British beige, these top-grain leather dress shoes feature classic Oxford wingtip stitching and an EVA footbed for comfort and support, making them perfect for all-day wear. Sizes range from 7 to 13.
2. Best choice for wide feet: Oxford Johnston & Murphy “Melton”$179
These elegant and classic Johnston & Murphy “Melton” Oxford Shoes are a huge buyer favorite at Nordstrom. Available in black, beige, and burgundy, these versatile leather dress shoes aren’t just stylish — they are also suitable for wide feet.
If you have wide feet, just select the “large” or “extra-extra large” option in the “width” drop down menu when shopping at Nordstrom. Sizes range from 7 to 15.
3. Best minimal option: Cole Haan Modern Classic Cap Toe Oxford$300
Boasting a silhouette similar to the Oxford Johnston & Murphy “Melton” footwear, Cole Haan’s Modern Classic Cap Toe Oxfords are perfect for those who prefer to keep things minimal and a bit understated.
Like all Cole Haan dress shoes, they have a soft EVA footbed for added comfort and support while walking, and they have a leather outsole with rubber pods in the forefoot and heel to extra grip and traction. Sizes range from 7 to 13.
4. Most Affordable/Best Deal: Johnston & Murphy Stockton Plain Toe Oxford$79.98 (original $149)
Few retailers offer better deals on designer shoes than DSW, and these Oxfords Johnston & Murphy are proof of that. These simple yet elegant leather shoes are available in two colors – black and cognac – and are currently on sale for just $80.
Sizes range from 8 to 13.
5. Ideal for everyday use: Beckett Simonon Brent Brogues$209 (original $350)
If you’re looking for a pair of high-quality, made-to-order dress shoes that look expensive and luxurious, but are comfortable enough to wear every day, Beckett Simonon’s Brent Oxfords are the best choice.
Boasting a classic silhouette and a playful twist with the inset stitching on the toe box, these shoes will garner so many compliments. And don’t let their sleek, streamlined look fool you, they’re supremely comfortable. Choose from five different colors and 12 sizes, ranging from 7 to 14.
6. Upper Foot Molding Loafers: Moccasin Koio Maranello$275
Loafers are an easy way to add a formal touch to your look without the stiffness that comes with a pair of lace-up shoes. The only downside to some loafers is that the less structured ones tend to lean towards the more casual side.
Koio, however, has managed to make loafers a bit more luxurious with its new Maranello launch. These moccasins are the perfect mix of formal and semi-casual, thanks to their soft grained leather design. Plus, since they’re loafers, they’re great for all-day wear and won’t tire your feet out in the middle of the day.
7. Best Tuxedo Shoe: Suitsupply Black Tuxedo Pullover Suit$299
If you’re going to a black tie party like a wedding, awards show, or gala, you’ll likely be wearing a tuxedo, which you should pair with a classic tuxedo shoe.
Tuxedo shoes are known for being simple and elegant and are usually laceless. Supplyknown for its ready-to-wear and high-end bespoke suits, also offers the perfect black tuxedo slip-on in soft velvet, adding the perfect balance of texture and high-end elegance to your look. Sizes range from 5 to 14.
8. The most inclusive: Rothy’s The Driving Moccasins$185
Rothy’s is known to be one of today’s most enduring and forward-thinking brands. From its best-selling bags to its comfortable, machine-washable shoes, the brand is both ethical and stylish.
His driving loafers for men can be dressed up or down, and the classic loafer silhouette is easy to take on and off. It is available in 12 colors and patterns, and best of all, sizes range from 7 to 16.
9. Most comfortable/best cushioning: Cole Haan OriginalGrand Ultra Wingtip Oxford$200
ØriginalGrand Shoe Series by Cole Haan is one of the most innovative and recognized lines of any shoe brand. Featuring the upper of a classic wingtip Oxford dress shoe and the heel of a chunky sneaker, these shoes are perfect for those who like a little more spring in their step and additional padding.
This is all made possible by the brand’s GRANDFØAM insole, which feels like a pillow under your feet. the ØoriginalGrand Ultra Wingtip Oxford comes in four colors and two widths (medium and wide). Sizes range from 6.5 to 16.
10. Best Casual Pick: Cole Haan Winslow Wingtip Basketball$150
For those who want the look and feel of a classic sneaker with the sleekness and style of a wingtip dress shoe, Cole Haan has created The best of both worlds with his Winslow Wingtip Sneaker.
Pair this shoe with a suit or chinos, and they won’t be out of place. This style is available in two colors (Blue Nights Nubuck and British Tan) and sizes range from 7 to 13.
11. Best Monk Strap Option: Beckett Simonon Hoyt Earrings$209 (original $350)
Nothing beats the elevated elegance and sophistication of a double-buckle leather dress shoe. This style, which has been a staple for decades, gives any dressy look an extra premium touch. They look expensive and inspire respect without going too far with texture.
Beckett Simonon makes some of the finest full-grain leather double-buckle dress shoes, and its Hoyt Monkstrap Dress Shoes are honestly the best you will find anywhere. Choose from five colors, ranging from black to beige, and 12 sizes, ranging from 7 to 14.
12. Best tassel loafers: Beckett Simonon Bernard Loafers with tassels$209 (original $350)
Finally, I firmly believe that every man needs a pair of tasselled loafers. They pair easily with anything from a tailored suit to jeans and a t-shirt.. Beckett Simonon’s Bernard tassel loafers are sturdy and have a slightly pointed toe that elegantly elevates your look while retaining its shape over time.
These are available in five different colors and the sizes range from 7 to 14.
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