Dress shoes are essential footwear for men. They are usually made of genuine or synthetic leather and are a must-have fashion item when dressing for a formal occasion like a wedding or office party. They are also formal enough to be worn to the office on a daily basis. Below is our suggested list of 4 types of dress shoes we think you should own.

Oxford and derby shoes

Oxford and Derby shoes are timeless classics and an essential part of any gentleman's shoe closet. Oxford shoes feature a closed lacing system, giving them a neat and polished look, and are a perfect choice if you've ever wondered what shoes to wear with suits. Derby shoes are similar to Oxfords, but with an open lacing system for a more smart-casual look. Pair them with a polo shirt and dark trousers, and you'll look like a million bucks! Oxfords are usually made of genuine or synthetic leather, while Derby shoes are also available in materials such as suede, making them a more versatile style for both smart-casual and smart-casual looks.

Lace-up shoes

Lace-up shoes exude a simple, utilitarian vibe and are versatile enough to suit any occasion, depending on the style. Usually in slim, clean cuts, they're best paired with casual evening wear or smart weekend attire to project an aura of laid-back ease without being sloppy. Imagine wearing a smart shirt and crisp trousers with a pair of lace-up shoes, and you've got the look ready to paint the town red.

Strollers

As the name suggests, loafers pair well with casual or smart casual looks. They are slip-on shoes without laces that have a moccasin-like cut. These comfortable men's dress shoes exude a very casual yet elegant vibe, perfect for the more dandy gentlemen among us. This style is also adaptable to several looks. Wear them with a turtleneck sweater, jacket, and trousers for a smart and elegant dinner look.

Monk straps

If you're unsure how to choose formal shoes with a versatile style, you can never go wrong with monk straps. The formality of this style falls somewhere between the Oxford and the Derby, being less formal than the Oxford but more formal than the Derby. It has a strap on the top with one or two buckles, giving a very elegant and sharp look. This is certainly practical for those who don't like to fiddle with laces but still want to look sharp. Pair them with a nice button-down shirt, blazer, and trousers for an interview-ready look.
Whether you're a stoic businessman dressed to impress or a fashionable metropolitan man, men's dress shoes are a must-have in your wardrobe. We hope this guide to men's dress shoes has helped you choose the style that suits you best.

VOLZAK ®