Today, we’ve put together a styling guide just for you to help you choose the correct formal shoes. Whether it’s a job interview, a wedding or just a date, being able to look the part is essential. While we do not doubt that you might have picked the right outfit, your shoes are just as important. So here are 5 types of formal shoes and styling tips that will help you tell the difference between looking dapper and looking disaster:
MEN
1. Brogue
A Brogue is a formal dress shoe that features a decorative technique known as broguing; i.e. perforations on the toe of the shoe. To identify a brogue, one must check if the cap of the shoe forms a design which looks like a “W”.
Brogues can further be classified into four types:
- Full brogues (also known as wingtip)
- Semi-brogues
- Quarter brogues
- Longwing brogues
The variations in its designs have made the brogue one of the most versatile types of shoes in a man’s wardrobe.
2. Moccasin
Moccasin is a type of shoe that has a more prominent sole than most others. It is usually made from suede or any other soft leather and depending on the fabric and colour, can pass off as both, casual and formal shoes. While most people often confuse a loafer for moccasins and vice-versa, one significant point of differentiation to remember is that Loafers don’t have any laces, while Moccasins do.
3. Derby
A Derby is a shoe that is defined by its open lacing technique. This means that the quarters, or the panels of leather containing the lace, are sewn on top of the vamp rather than under it. They come in different colours which range from cognac to other reds and browns and can be teamed with a suit, jeans or chinos. So while you can pair it with a casual outfit, you would want to avoid wearing to a black-tie event. You can shop for formal shoes online and style yourself to look dapper this season!
WOMEN
4. Ballerinas
Ballerina flats are a type of ballet-inspired formal shoes that have become a staple in every woman’s footwear closet. Ballet flats have a very thin or utterly flat heel, a closed toe and a low cut that reveals the top of the foot.
Actress Audrey Hepburn is responsible for popularizing many fashion trends, and ballet flats are one of them. Ballet flats surged back into the spotlight in 2005 when Oprah Winfrey endorsed Tory Burch’s iconic Reva flats on an episode of her show.
5. Mules
In a woman’s world where she needs to get through all sorts of straps and buckles to put on a pair of heels, what can be easier than sliding on and off a pair of heels?
Yes, Mules are so popular because they are so comfortable and can be worn with almost any outfit. Because they have so many style variations, mules can be paired with jeans, a sexy mini, or a lovely evening maxi. And no, there is nothing better than comfort clubbed with high heels!
So, Which of these styles is your pick?
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