What Shoes To Wear With Suits: The Ultimate Guide

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen a lad casually strutting around in a pretty decent suit, just be completely taken aback by his shoe selection. And then it hit me – not many men actually know what colour shoes to wear with suits.

Now, before we move on any further, let me say that I am completely aware that fashion is an expression. It’s a way for you to show the world who you are. But, you need to level with me on this one – some rules aren’t meant to be broken.

So, in order to save you from any future fashion faux pas, I’ve put together this guide on what shoes to wear with suits, so you don’t ever again have to utter the words “Darling, do these shoes match?”

Just kidding. I know you didn’t ask.

Types Of Shoes To Wear With A Suit

First things first, we have to define what types of shoes you can wear with a suit and raincoat. You can’t just slip on any old pair of shoes and call it a day. That would be a fashion disaster waiting to happen.

Instead, why do you do yourself a favour and grab yourself the following:

1. The Loafer – Laidback And Lavish

Unless you’re attending a fundraiser with the rich and famous (if you are, please can I be your plus one),then  the chances are you’re not going to be donning a tuxedo. Which means you can relax and let your feet breathe.

So, when it comes to rocking a suit during the daytime or during some semi-formal or casual event, you’re going to want to ditch the traditional lace-ups in favour of a more relaxed loafer.

Slipping on a pair of loafers will give off an air of nonchalance, which is perfect if you’re looking to achieve that whole “I’m-too-cool-for-this” vibe that I live by.

Just make sure you avoid anything too flashy or decorative. Don’t be Nick Cannon.

2. The Monk Strap – Dressy And Refined

My personal favourite when it comes to classy shoes, the monk strap is the perfect balance between formal and casual.

If you’re not sure what a monk strap is, it’s basically a shoe that’s fastened with a strap and buckle (or sometimes two straps) instead of laces.

Monk straps are ideal for more all occasions and are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Just avoid anything too chunky or clunky. Not to hate on anyone’s style, but leave the stocky monks to ladies. They’re much too feminine to work with a tailored suit.

3. The Oxford – Timeless And Elegant

I generally don’t see how you could style these wrong, to be honest, unless you are matching it with shorts and a string vest.

The Oxford is the epitome of a classic dress shoe. It’s sleek, it’s refined and it works with just about any outfit – including a suit.

Whether you’re donning a dapper three-piece or a lounge suit, an Oxford will always look the part.

As simple as that.

4. The Derby – Quintessential And Ageless

When you want to go formal-formal, the Derby is your go-to shoe.

A step up from the Oxford, the Derby is characterised by its open lacing system, which gives it a more refined look.

Like the Oxford, the Derby can be worn with just about any formal attire. In fact, I would argue that it’s the perfect shoe to wear with a suit if you’re going for that traditional, old-money businessman vibe.

The only time I would say to avoid the Derby is if you’re going for a more casual look. In that case, stick to the loafers.

5. The Brogue – Bold And Audacious

If there was ever a shoe to be careful with, it’s the brogue.

The beauty of the brogue is that it can easily be dressed up or down, which means it can work with both formal and casual looks.

However, because of this, it can be easy to overdo it.

I get that your favourite Instagram bearded model likes to flaunt his brogues with raw denim and an unbuttoned shirt, but that doesn’t mean you should too.

Instead, use the brogue as an opportunity to add a touch of personality to your look, not make the outfit about them. You want your suit to be the star of the show, not your shoes.

6. Chelsea Boots – Suave And Rugged

Here’s where it gets tricky.

You see, Chelsea’s are the perfect boots to wear with a suit. They’re sleek, they’re stylish and they give off an air of sophistication.

The issue is that not all of them are created equal. In fact, some Chelsea boots can look downright ridiculous with a suit if you don’t know what you’re doing.

So, what’s the secret to pulling them off?

Simple. Make sure you choose a Chelsea boot that is slim, sleek and doesn’t have too much going on in terms of design and avoid them with formal events. You can only pull these off in a smart casual dress code setting.

How To Pick The Right Shoe Colour?

This is where the magic happens. This is how you prove you’re savvy when it comes to fashion.

You see, the key to nailing the whole shoe and suit pairing is to make sure you follow some simple rules on suit colours.

1. For Black Colour Suit

In all honesty, you only have one choice when it comes to black.

• Black

I know, I know… You’re thinking “black on black is boring” or “I want to add a pop of colour” or “I can pull off dark brown shoes.”

Well, I’m here to tell you that black is never boring. In fact, it’s the perfect way to show that you mean business. It’s how you show you’re a man of sophistication and style.

And, I know your favourite rapper is rocking mocha-coloured Jordans and a tux, but then again – Pharell wore shorts and a blazer to Grammys, and I didn’t see anyone copying him. Well, maybe Russel Westbrook.

So, just keep it black on black. Trust me.

2. For Charcoal Colour Suit

While it may seem super versatile, you actually don’t have that many options when it comes to charcoal.

• Black
• Oxblood

That’s it. Don’t overcomplicate it.

You could go with a different shade of burgundy, but then you run the risk of looking too festive.

And, while you could experiment with different shades of brown like chestnut, it’s best to leave browns for some other piece from your closet, as it’s way too easy to slip up and make a mistake.

3. For Grey Colour Suit

A grey suit would be slightly more versatile than a charcoal suit. Mostly because you have a few more shades to work with. So, the colours?

• Black
• Burgundy
• Brown

Now, you can’t quite pick and choose any of these and call it a day. Well, you can if it’s black. But, as a general rule of thumb, you should go with a burgundy footwear if you’re rocking a darker shade of grey, and go with a light, subdued light brown if you’re sporting a light grey suit.

4. For Navy Colour Suit

Finally, we have some options to play with.

• Black
• Brown
• Burgundy

As you can see, we have three different options to choose from. Now, this does not mean that every shade of brown or burgundy shoes will look good with your navy suit, does it?

Yes, it does. It really does.

5. For Blue Colour Suit

Whatever you do – don’t pair a light blue suit with black shoes. It’s a crime against fashion.

The only ones that work are:

• Brown

That’s it. Just brown. Preferably light or rusty brown.

No navy or grey shoes, and unless you’re planning on running home from work – no white trainers, please.

6. For Brown Colour Suit

Brown suits should be relatively easy to pair. You can go with either:

• Brown
• Burgundy

Both will look great, it’s just a matter of matching the right hues. While black might seem like a decent idea, I wouldn’t do it. Just stick to earthy tones.

7. For Tan Colour Suit

Lighter tones usually go with lighter tones, there no need for you to “break the rules” or “spice things up”.

So, for a tan suit your best options are:

Brown
Ivory

One thing that’s cool about light-coloured suits is that while you can’t quite play around with colours – you can play around with materials. Leather, suede, you name it… As long as it’s brown or ivory – it will work.

Best Suit-Shoe Combo For Any Occasion

In the end, I wanted to extend a helping hand and give you a few ideas for different occasions and dress code.

Sounds good?

1. Black Tie Events

Please don’t be that one guy who shows up in sneakers. Just don’t.

These events are formal occasions for a very good reason. No one’s forcing you to come, but if you are coming – look the part in suit shoes.

So, what does that mean?

• Black tux
• Black oxfords or derbies

Easy. Classy. Ageless.

2. Business Meetings

Here’s where you get to experiment a little bit, but I like to think about physiology when it comes to this one.

You want to look commanding, you want to look like you’re in control – like someone people can trust with their money. That being said, go for a presidential look with:

• Navy three-piece suit
• Black oxfords or derbies

I’d skip on a brown dress shoe. Black says “I get things done.”

 

3. Casual Get-Togethers

It’s casual. The world is your canvas. You can do whatever.

Now, depending on who you’re getting together with, you might want to consider your audience. If it’s a bunch of guys, you can probably get away with anything. If it’s ladies, you might want to make a little bit more of an effort.

To nail it with both:

• Grey single-breasted suit
• Black Chelsea boots

Trust me. This one’s going to work.

4. Date Night

It’s paramount you got to look the part. You’re going to want to look dapper, but not too formal.

You need to find a balance between classy and comfortable – because if you’re not comfortable, it’s going to show and you’re going to come across as either arrogant, stiff or nervous. Neither of which is attractive.

So, if you want to come across as charming and well-put-together and leave a lasting first impression, go with:

• Tan double-breasted suit
• Light brown monk straps

I’d avoid loafers, as there’s a good chance the lady’s not into your feet.

5. Party

If it’s a boat party there’s only one thing you can wear and that’s loafers. Suede loafers in pretty much any colour will do. But, let’s face it – how many of us party on a boat? Not many I’d assume.

So, since you’ll probably pop down to a pub or go to a club, try and wear:

Anything but a suit

You’re going to a party. Relax.

Final Verdict on what shoes to wear with suits

So, there you have our ultimate guide on suit show shopping.

Unless you’re planning on rocking a mint green or lavender suit, I think we’ve covered all the bases.

So, save this somewhere, pin it, print it, use it as a cheat sheet, or memorize it by heart for all I care – just make sure you remember these rules. They’ll elevate your suit game!