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Suit and Shoe Combinations
13 · 09 · 2013

Suit and Shoe Combinations

Written by Beckett Simonon

 
When people consider someone's wardrobe choices, they often start from the bottom: The shoes. Even the finest tailored suit can be ruined with an ugly or worn out pair.

The wrong color shoe will make your outfit seem mismatched, at best.

Not every shoe is made equally, and this couldn't be truer than with shoe colors. If you're going to own one color of the shoe, the best choice is black as it can pair with almost anything.

This is acceptable for events where you don't want to be too flashy (such as an event with a very formal dress code or, especially, a funeral.)

Below is a quick primer on what color pants pair best with the four most popular colors of shoes: Black, tan, brown, and oxblood.

Black Shoes

The most formal shoe color out there and the most restrictive one as well. Black shoes are highly appropriate for grey of all shades and, of course, black. When paired with blue, avoid navy and set your sights on lighter shades. Never, and we mean never, wear black shoes with a brown suit.

Tan Shoes

Tan shoes are probably the most versatile a man can own. They’ll look great with navy, all types of grey, and browns of all shades.

Note their chameleonic superpowers don’t stop at suits. They go perfect with business casual attire, as well. Avoid sporting tan shoes with black suits as the contrast is, at best, flashy.

Brown Shoes

 In formal settings, brown shoes should be avoided when wearing black or charcoal suits. Aside from this, brown is a color that will class up any type of grey and blue fabric.

It will make you look dapper in a camel or brown ensemble. Don't listen to the people who tell you that brown can never be worn in a formal setting. They're hopelessly stuck in the past.

Oxblood Shoes

Oxblood is nobody's first choice of shoe color. Yes, they might look daunting. But we guarantee they're one of the most functional and multifaceted shoes out there.

Plus, they'll make any look in the book bolder and more interesting. They complement all shades of grey, most navy blues, and can even be worn with black.

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Comments

Frank Oct 11, 2019

Thank you for the advice on how to sport tan shoes.It was very helpful, thanks again.

Vamba S. Fofana Feb 28, 2016

This is fantastic! Thanks for the information. Much appreciated.

Beccie Marshall Aug 08, 2014

Very helpful….. Thank you

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