/GettyImages-1081734562-f41f9b9076884fce8af924cabf3e60d5.jpg "The 19 Best Men’s Dress Shoes of 2022")
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When putting together the perfect wedding attire, whether as a guest or for your nuptials, your dress shoes should never be an afterthought. Shoes are a way to bring personality to any outfit and formal wear is no different. Whether you’re looking to stand out with a pair of colorful oxfords or want something more sophisticated and chic to tie your look together, dress shoes offer a lot more versatility than you might think.
Choosing the right dress shoe depends on two factors: style and fit. Choosing a dress shoe that matches both your fashion and your sole is the secret sauce to finding your perfect pair. From classics to must-haves, we’ve researched the best dress shoes to help you in your search for the right pair.
Ahead, the best dress shoes, expert advice from shoe designer Enrico Cuini, and some frequently asked questions.
What to look for in a pair of dress shoes
Style
While there aren’t a ton of different dress shoe designs, there are plenty of style options to choose from. And you want to find a dress shoe that looks like you, not just you in a pair of dress shoes. We want our shoes to be like an extension of ourselves and if traditional toes and wingtips aren’t for you, Cuini says that’s okay. “Loafers can be considered dress shoes if they are made with high quality leather and properly polished.”
In shape
Fit is a necessary thing to consider when buying shoes, especially dress shoes. After all, you’re going to be wearing (read: dancing) them all night, and maybe all season too. With a more expensive purchase like dress shoes, it’s best to measure your feet and compare your measurements to the brand’s size guide. Keep in mind that sizing guides from brand to brand may differ – just because you’re a size 11 in Cole Haan shoes doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be the same size in Nordstrom dress shoes . Also, take into account that some brands don’t offer half sizes, for example, or they may produce in European, IT or UK sizes, rather than US.
Unlike sneakers, Cuini says “dress shoes will be much more comfortable” and it’s important that they “fit without slipping or slipping inside shoes.” Wearing well-fitting dress shoes “will allow you to wear them throughout the party or event,” says Cuini.
FAQs
You want your wedding day shoes to be in perfect condition for your big day. To polish dress shoes, Cuini recommends using a “soft cloth and lots of elbow grease” with shoe polish. Since not all shoes and brands are created equal, it is important to know the care instructions to ensure proper cleaning and polishing of dress shoes.
Although we encourage you to wear what you feel most comfortable with, it’s traditionally recommended to match your socks to your pants, not your dress shoes. When your socks match your shoes rather than your pants, it can make your dress shoes look out of proportion with the rest of your attire. However, on formal occasions, you should match your dress shoes to your belt.
Why Trust Byrdie
Contributing writer Jessie Quinn has a bachelor’s degree in fashion journalism and has a thing for shoes. She believes shoes are an extension of personality and self-expression. Why shouldn’t this also apply to your wedding day look? When it comes to her taste in wedding footwear, Jessie likes a classic cap-toe oxford or something that leans into the whole personal style component, like Ariat cowboy boots or Dr. Martens. Oxfords. These might not be the most obvious choices for a wedding day ensemble, but you’ll never regret dressing up like you on the big day.
