No matter how sophisticated your style is or how sharp your suit, the overall impression largely depends on how your choice of shoes complements the outfit.

 

And as design pushes fashion ideas in clothing, your choice of kicks has also become as big of a statement as the suit they are walked with. For that reason, choosing the right pair to match with your outfit is a decision that can’t be taken lightly.

 

Deciding which shoes will best work with your outfit, however, is not always as straightforward as it seems. With its power to make or break your look, it can be a daunting process to make. For that reason, we’re here to guide you every step of the way to help you slip into the pair that will make you look dapper from head-to-toe.

 

Navy Blue Suits

Best Paired with: Black, Brown, Red, or Burgundy Shoes

 

Navy is a youthful and versatile color that perfectly balances smart and casual, making it ideal in the office or at dressier affairs. Moreover, it complements the classic choices of men’s leather shoes such as black, brown, red, and burgundy. Due to the subtle elegance and calming traits of the navy color, the shoes play a significant role in determining the formality and attitude of your ensemble.

 

For instance, black leather shoes are an excellent choice for business-related events. The earth-tones of brown boots, on the other hand, leaves a relaxing impression that is perfect for semi-formal occasions. If you want to add a pop of color and go for a playful vibe, kicking in some red or burgundy shoes should do the trick.

 

Medium and Light Gray Suits

Best Paired with: Black, Brown, Red, or Burgundy Shoes

 

Various shades of gray offer the same flexibility as navy blue suits, though it is best worn for less formal events. This is an excellent choice for casual pieces as it pairs well with any color of leather, enabling any man to slip into any shoes of your choosing.

 

For instance, black shoes strike a balance between relaxed and formal, which is perfect for suits worn as everyday business attire. Brown and burgundy shoes, on the other hand, takes social events a step further and is best matched with a patterned or colored shirt.

 

Brown Suits

Best Paired with: Brown, Red or Burgundy Shoes

 

Pairing a brown suit with brown leather shoes may seem questionable, but there’s no need to worry about giving off a tree bark impression as brown on brown makes for a surprisingly seamless combination. Keep in mind that the shades of brown should have a bright contrast between the shoe leather and the color of the suit to add distinction and structure. As a rule of thumb for these pairings, go for a darker shade of brown leather to keep the eye from being drawn downward.

 

Black Suits

Best Paired with: Black Shoes

 

Black is a strict color and does not make for as flexible and effective canvas as gray, meaning that blending boldly colored shoes may leave more of a brash impression. Black suits encapsulate tradition and are ideal for highly formal events, which makes black leather shoes the only way to go for this route.

 

Oxfords are typically the first port of call amongst other selections, though Derbies, monk straps, Chelsea boots, and brogue boots also add a flair of elegance to the ensemble. If this sounds too square for your taste, you can add a subtle playfulness by incorporating colors using brogue shoes with a contrast sole detailing.

 

We have years of experience creating high-quality, luxury suits and shirts that last for the long-term. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!