If the current heatwave has taught me anything, it’s that the men of Britain need new summer shoes. Look down at your next barbecue or beer garden at your local pub, and you’ll see untold horrors: hiking sandals up the hill; battered boat shoes, those dodgy Reef flip flops with a bottle opener in the sole.
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Shoes
While men may pay close attention to their sneakers and dig into the details when it comes to finding the right brogue, when it comes to summer shoes, it seems to go haywire. But there are more stylish solutions for warm weather men and none of them are the kind of scary, directional styles you’ll only see at fashion week.
First things first: if you haven’t bought new summer shoes in several years, go into your wardrobe, pull out those €10 sandals you bought in a Greek convenience store 15 years ago when your old ones have broken and throw them in the trash. Yes, I know you can always put them on your feet, but don’t.
Next, assemble your new arsenal of summer footwear, which should include at least one pair of sandals, one pair of appropriate footwear (eg, a loafer), and a sneaker or tennis shoe. Avoid the pool slides unless you are near a pool; ditto hiking sandals unless you’re hiking and running sneakers unless you’re running a race.
You’ll be happy to know that expensive doesn’t always mean better. Birkenstocks, for example, are affordable and timeless. Espadrilles, which the Spaniards have worn since the 14th century, are a safe bet for those who prefer a closed toe. A sleek trainer with athletic-style socks (avoid anything funny or novel) will work with most things. For more chic occasions, you can’t go wrong with a brown leather loafer.
My last advice? Don’t dismiss the idea of a pedicure. It’s basic grooming and no one should show their toes in public without some sort of tidying up. You might even enjoy…
Step into summer with these shoes
1. The classic Birkenstock
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Birkenstock
- Easy to put on, can be worn with just about anything and will never go out of style. Wear with socks if you dare.
- Two strap leather sandals, £95, Birkenstock
2. The fisherman’s sandal
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fisherman sandal
- A modern classic with more coverage and support than a slip-on sandal. Go for a grown-up take on the style to wear with rolled-up chinos after the sun goes down.
- Leather and grosgrain sandals, £125, Russell & Bromley
3. The espadrille
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Sneakers
- The rope sole and canvas upper give a casual, stylish and summery look without much effort.
- Canvas espadrilles, £60, Toms
4. Tennis
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Tennis
- Your everyday summer shoe, which can be paired with jeans, shorts, chinos, etc. Do not wear them with black socks.
- Leather trainers, £120, Veja
5. The trainer
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Coach
- The so-called “dad trainer” has become a wardrobe staple that nods to the 90s. This style strikes a nice balance between nostalgia and modernity.
- Trainers, £100, New Balance
6. The moccasin
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Loafer
- For work, weddings and any chic summer event, decent loafers will serve you well. Suede is more discreet than leather, but always use a protective spray.
- Suede loafers, £89.95, Massimo Dutti
What is your favorite shoe for the summer months? Tell us in the comments section below
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Gallery: Loungewear (Red (UK))
