Different Types of Formal Shoes Every Man Should Know

2025-05-26 17:37:03

A man’s style often begins with his shoes. The way a shoe is crafted, polished, and worn can reveal volumes about his personality, attention to detail, and taste. In the world of menswear, formal shoes are not just a necessity—they are a cornerstone of sophistication. They’re a style statement that speak more than just the aesthetics. Whether you're dressing for a boardroom presentation, a cocktail event, or your best friend’s wedding, knowing the different types of formal shoes ensures that you walk in with confidence and class. It creates an impression that lasts. 

However, due to wide range of options available to choose from, it can be quite confusing to pick the right type of formal shoe for the right occasion. To ensure that you can make this choice easily, we’ve come up with a guide. This guide will walk you through the most essential types of formal shoes for men, each with its own aesthetic, level of formality, and styling potential. Let's begin with the timeless foundation: the Oxford. 

Oxford Shoes 

The Oxford is the definition of classic elegance. Known for its sleek silhouette and structured design, it's the most formal of all types of dress shoes and remains a wardrobe staple for discerning gentlemen. Pick this for the most specific type of formal dressing which requires a particular dress code to be adhered to. Here’s what makes the oxford shoes unique. 

Defining Features: 

• Closed lacing system (eyelets stitched under the vamp) 

• Sleek, low-profile structure 

• Often features cap toe detailing, though also available in plain or wingtip designs 

When to Wear: 

Perfect for formal occasions—think weddings, black-tie events, interviews, and business meetings – or any occasions that call for a strict formal dress code. 

Style Tip: 

A pair of men’s Oxford shoes in black leather is non-negotiable for every man’s formal wardrobe. Thanks to its versatility, it can be paired with a large range of outfits. For a modern take, try an oxblood or deep brown version with a navy suit. 

Derby Shoes 

A close cousin to the Oxford, Derby shoes offer a bit more flexibility and comfort without compromising on style. Their open-lacing system gives them a slightly more relaxed and adaptable fit, making them ideal for everyday formals. Think of them as a less-strict version of the Oxford. Here are their defining features. 

Defining Features: 

• Open lacing (eyelets sewn on top of the vamp) 

• Roomier fit 

• Can range from minimalist to brogued finishes 

When to Wear: 

Suitable for business casual, corporate settings, formal dinners, and even weddings. 

Style Tip: 

Choose Derby shoes for men in brown for versatility—pair them with trousers, chinos, or even dark denim on dress-down days. They can give you a very contemporary look. 

Brogues 

Brogues aren’t a shoe type per se—they're a design feature that adds detail to other classic forms like Oxfords or Derbies. The signature perforations and serrated edges add texture and interest, making brogues a great choice when you want your shoes to do the talking. They’re how your Oxfords and Derbies dress up for a special look. Here’s what defines Brogues. 

Defining Features: 

• Decorative perforations (broguing) on the toe cap and upper 

• Available in full brogue (wingtip), semi-brogue, and quarter-brogue styles 

• Often combined with Oxford or Derby constructions 

When to Wear: 

Best for occasions that call for formal flair—weddings, semi-formal events, or days when you want to stand out without being flashy. Be careful about choosing them – as they’re not always considered formals even when they’re on a typically formal construction. 

Style Tip: 

A pair of wingtip brogues in tan or cognac pairs beautifully with grey or navy suits. They add texture and dimension to solid-coloured outfits. 

Monk Strap Shoes 

If you’re looking for something beyond the usual lace-ups, monk strap shoes strike the perfect balance between traditional and contemporary. With a buckle closure instead of laces, they deliver standout style with minimal effort. They’re not very commonly spotted in formal occasions, but can be paired very well with formal styles. 

Defining Features: 

• One or two buckled straps instead of laces 

• Sleek upper with a low profile 

• Often found in leather or suede finishes 

When to Wear: 

Perfect for cocktail events, date nights, or fashion-forward office wear. 

Style Tip: 

A double monk strap in polished brown leather pairs beautifully with slim-fit trousers and a crisp shirt. Wear without socks for a relaxed European touch. Pick Monk shoes that have metallic buckles for a sleeker finish. 

Loafers 

Loafers blur the line between formal and casual in the best way. They’re the most versatile of all kinds of formal shoes, adapting to both structured and relaxed dress codes with ease. They’re worn with formals, semi-formals and casuals too for a versatile style statement. 

Defining Features: 

• Slip-on style with no laces or buckles 

• Available in various styles: penny, tassel, horsebit, or plain 

• Can be worn with or without socks 

When to Wear: 

Ideal for business casual, summer weddings, and events where comfort and style go hand in hand. Even good for casual hangouts with friends when paired in a relaxed way. 

Style Tip: 

Try loafers for men in suede for relaxed yet elevated weekend dressing or opt for patent leather loafers with a tailored suit for after-hours sophistication. Loafers are truly one of the most versatile options in the bunch and keep a lot of room open for experimentation. 

How to Choose the Right Formal Shoe 

Understanding the different types of formal shoes is only half the story. Knowing how to choose the right one for your lifestyle and wardrobe is where true style begins. Here are some handy tips for how to choose the right formal shoe for the right occasion. 

Consider the Occasion: 

• Strictly formal: Oxfords, plain-toe Derbies, or monk straps 

• Business or corporate: Cap-toe Derbies, brogues, or understated loafers 

• Social events or parties: Monk straps, tassel loafers, or full brogues 

Match the Shoe to the Suit: 

• Black shoes go best with grey, charcoal, or black suits 

• Brown shoes work with navy, tan, and lighter hues 

• Suede shoes can complement linen and semi-formal fabrics 

Prioritise Fit and Comfort: 

• Always try both shoes and walk around before purchasing 

• Consider insoles and sole flexibility if you’ll wear them for long hours 

Conclusion 

A man’s shoe collection speaks volumes about his style. By understanding the most essential types of formal shoes, you’re not just investing in footwear—you’re curating presence, posture, and poise. 

At Mochi, we offer a refined selection of formal shoes for men—from classic Oxfords and versatile Derbies to expressive Monk Straps and relaxed Loafers. Every pair is crafted to offer the perfect blend of form and function, for moments that matter. 

Because a great day starts with the right pair of shoes.
Explore Mochi’s collection and put your best foot forward—always.
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