When it comes to dressing for work, there are a few cardinal rules that everyone should follow. One of the most important is to dress appropriately for the type of job you have.
In this article, we will be discussing the best shoes for men who want to dress business casual. We will be covering a range of different styles and materials, so that you can find the perfect pair of shoes for your needs.
So whether you’re looking for something stylish and sophisticated or something more comfortable and practical, we have you covered.
Let’s get started!
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Who Are Business Casual Shoes For?
Well, they’re for you, obviously. But, that’s not what we’ve meant.
Business casual shoes are for anyone who wants to dress stylish but also doesn’t want to deal with blisters that come from supertight wingtips.
Source: florsheim.com
You might be thinking, “But, I can just wear my sneakers with a suit and that would be comfortable.” We’re not here to argue with you, but we will say that it’s not the best idea.
Your shoes should always match the formality of your outfit. So, if you’re wearing a suit, you should be wearing dressy shoes.
No matter what the Instagram influencers suggest.
What To Pay Attention To When Shopping For A Business Casual Shoe?
Before we get into the different types of shoes, we wanted to give you a few pointers on what to look for when shopping.
Comfort
First and foremost, you want to make sure that the shoes you’re buying are comfortable. There’s nothing worse than being in pain at work all day.
Make sure to try on the shoes and walk around in them for a bit before you make your purchase.
If you can, get a comfy foam or silicone insole to make them even comfier. That should really propel your comfort game.
Material
Source: bp-guide.in
The way we see it, you have three options – leather, vegan (faux) leather and suede. That’s about it when it comes to materials.
We suggest sticking with leather or vegan leather. They’re the most versatile and practical options. Suede is a bit more difficult to take care of and it might come across as a bit too casual on some occasions.
Brand
Brand name shouldn’t be a be-all-end-all when shopping, but at the same time – you kind of have to pay attention to it.
We’re not saying that you should only buy designer shoes, but brands like Zara or H&M might not be the best options for a business casual shoe. They usually won’t last long and will scuff, crease and scratch way too easily.
Our Top Picks
We’re finally here – the top five best business casual shoes for men in 2024!
1. Oxford
Source: zappos.com
A timeless classic, oxford shoes will never go out of style. They’re the epitome of a business casual shoe and they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Worn with suits as well as jeans, they’re the perfect versatile shoe. And, they come in a wide range of styles – from traditional black to more modern browns and even patterned options.
Which to buy?
- Magnanni Federico Oxfords – A classic, yet affordable black oxford shoe that will never go out of style.
- Florsheim Ariano Cap Toe Oxfords – Super versatile pair of vibrant brown oxfords that can be dressed up or down.
2. Loafers
Source: youtube.com
A classic business casual shoe, loafers are the way to go if you’re looking for something comfortable and stylish. They come in a wide range of materials, from leather to suede, and they can be slip-on or lace-up.
Whether you go with a penny loafer or a tassel loafer, you can’t go wrong. Just make sure to get a pair that fits well and is comfortable.
Which to buy?
Bernard Tassel Loafers – For someone that wants a pit more pizzazz, these tassel loafers are a great option. They’ll make any outfit pop.
Bruno Marc Penny Loafer – A super affordable and equally comfy penny loafer that comes in a ton of different colors for every occasion. You can find them at https://www.brunomarcshoes.com/collections/loafers.
3. Monk Strap
Source: bodileys.com
Monk straps are a bit more of a modern take on the classic business casual shoe. They usually come in leather and they have a buckle instead of laces.
They’re a fantastic option if you’re looking for something to leave a lasting impression. They come in a wide range of colors and styles, from single to double straps, so you’re bound to find the perfect pair for you.
Which to buy?
The Crockett & Jones Lowndes – This pair comes at a price, but then again – you get quality. If you want a luxurious and high-quality monk strap, this is the way to go.
Vass Budapest Walnut Museum Double Monks – Slightly more affordable, but still premium pair of monks. Handmade from the finest leather, these are a pair you’ll get to wear for years to come.
4. Chelsea
Source: amazon.com
There’s a reason why Chelsea boots are more popular than ever.
They have a sleek design that can be dressed up or down, making them the perfect choice for any man. Chelsea boots also have a versatile style that can be worn with jeans, chinos, or suits.
So, if you’re looking for a boot that will never go out of style, then Chelsea boots are the way to go.
Which to buy?
Clarkdale Hall Cognac Chelsea Boot – Both rugged and classy, these cinnamon-brown Chelsea boots will make a great addition to any man’s wardrobe.
Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boot – Every man should have an Italian shoe in his closet, and if there was ever a shoe to start with – it’s this one. A quality boot that looks good with literally everything.
5. Brogue
Source: wellbuiltstyle.com
Brogue is for those who dare to be different. A timeless style of shoe, the brogue has been around for centuries.
What sets it apart from other shoes is the intricate detail and craftsmanship that goes into each pair. From the perforated toe to the wingtip design, brogues are truly a work of art.
And, they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. So, if you’re looking for a shoe that will make you stand out from the crowd – you know what to get.
Which to buy?
Ace Marks Wingtips – If you want to stick to the formal edge of the spectrum, these caramel wingtips are a great choice.
Charles Tyrwhitt High Top Brogue – These ankle-high brogues are perfect for making a statement. Pairable with both cuffed jeans and classy trousers, they’ll add a touch of dapper to any outfit.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – ten of the best business casual shoes in five styles!
Remember, the key to nailing the perfect look is finding a shoe that fits your personal style. Also, it’s owning one shoe in each of these five styles. Just sayin’.
Have fun shopping.
