Everyone wants to put their best foot forward in their best shoes, but not everyone knows how to do it. Different shoe styles suit different occasions. Some shoes are meant to only be worn to formal occasions, while some others should not be worn at a black-tie event.

Wearing the right shoes can take just any boring fashion to sophisticated. Dress shoes elevate appearance and outfit, whether it is casual or formal wear. The best dress shoes for men are not only stylish but also practical. Use this guide to help you prevent any fashion mishaps in men's dress shoes.

Oxford Shoes

Oxford shoes are a starting point if you are buying your first dress shoe. It is a basic versatile shoe that can be worn almost anywhere. The shoe gained popularity in the 1800s among Oxford University students, which gave the name.

The most recognizable characteristics of the oxford shoe are the closed lace, low heel, and long toe. The shoes come in four different styles, but the most common one is the Cap Toe Oxford. This style is often used for business attires.

Derby Shoes

Derby shoes are often mixed up with Oxford Shoes. Unlike Oxfords, the Derby shoes have an open lacing system.

This means that the section on top of the shoe called the vamp, splits in half and laces. The wider lacing makes the shoes more casual. The leather designs give any outfit a polished look.

Chelsea Boots

The laceless boots called Chelsea boots are minimal and timeless. This type of shoe dated back to the 19th century and gained popularity in Chelsea, London, which is where it got its name. They have been a classic staple of men's footwear choice ever since.

Traditionally, the boots are made of leather but can be found in suede as well. Aside from that, the boot is tight-fitting and cut right at the ankle. The elastic side part on the shoes gives the comfort-fit and allows you to spend all day in them.

Loafers

The Loafers have been worn in various ways throughout many cultures in history. Native Americans wore similar shoes called moccasins. Meanwhile, fishermen in Northern Europe had a different kind but of the same variation to the Loafers.

Loafers are versatile slip-on footwear with nine different styles, but Penny loafers are the most common one. The other types are kiltie, driving, slipper, boat shoes, horsebit, bit loafer, and espadrilles. Another type is Tassel loafers which are more appropriate if used for business attires or weddings.

Chukka Boots

Chukka boots were originally worn in the United Kingdom during the 1940s. Today, the tradition continues and the boots are still seen in both formal and casual attire. The boots are an open lace and ankle-length design.

A chukka boot can be formal or casual depending on what silhouette you choose. However, a slim silhouette is best for formal wear because of its simplicity. This men's boot can be found in leather or suede.