Choosing Fashion Over Comfort

.Reading time 2 minutes.

Who says style has to be uncomfortable?  You wear your favorite shoes and clothes over, and over again because you feel the most comfortable when you’re wearing them.  So, why not try for comfort and style next time you’re searching for new shoes?  Go for a derby!

If you have a casual work environment, go for a derby style shoe with a rubber sole.  A derby shoe is one of the most timeless, casual styles you can invest in.  Take care of them properly, and you will have them for a long time, long after the trends change.

            For a more traditional work environment, choose a classic, plain-toe derby with rubber or leather soles.  Wearing a derby shoe with a leather sole keeps your look classy and professional.  Adding rubber soles to traditional dress shoes, adds bulk and weight to your shoes, giving you a chunkier profile.  The upside to adding rubber is the endless level of comfort.  You’ll notice the difference immediately! 

On a typical New England winter day, no one will notice if your shoes look a bit chunky.  But, they will notice you’re the only one standing on the train platform wearing dress shoes.  Having a rubber sole helps your shoes last longer, and keeps you from bringing two pairs of shoes to work in inclement weather.  You’ll also stand out and be noticed for your fashionably practical footwear.

When Combat Boots Won’t Work

.Reading time 1 minute.

What’s a jump boot you ask?  Well think of your average, tactical, military boot, combined with a classic leather boot.  A jump boot is the combo of these two styles with a twist.  Usually form fitting, low to mid-calf height, and made of leather.  This style of footwear is very broad, but perfect for those of you who aren’t fans of combat boots.

Without even knowing it, you probably have a jump boot in your closet already!  This season, choose to invest in a pair of leather jump boots.  Play it safe in black or brown, or go bolder in tan or a suede finish.  If you’re really feeling special, treat yourself to all four options and round out your boot collection.  Opt for tan if you’re unsure of which color will give you the most versatility. 

Wearing a tan jump boot, allows you to make a casual statement with black jeans, or look more put together in a tan or navy pant.  Whichever colorway, brand, or style you choose, your investment will not go to waste on a jump boot.

The Shoes You Need Now

.Reading time 3 minutes.

As part of our footwear essentials series, we’re diving into more must-have styles you need this season. Check out all of our essentials below:

Invest in a Quality Modern Sneaker

Step Up Your Style in Chelsea Boots

Finish Your Fall Look in Chukka Boots

Every man needs a great pair of dress shoes to round out his wardrobe.  Even if you only wear them 1-2 times per year, or even less than that, it’s worth investing in a quality pair.  You never know when a special occasion, like a friend’s wedding, or an unfortunate occasion, like a funeral may occur.  Be prepared, and leave the last minute shopping to the “Late Lacys”. 

Finding your brand, in other words, the brand of dress shoes you feel most comfort spending your hard earned money on is a good place to start.  If your favorite casual shoe brand makes dress shoes, start there.  However, if you know you will be living in your dress shoes for most of the year, invest in a high quality brand to get the most bang for your buck.

I have two suggestions for styles that will stand the test of time; the first is the cap toe oxford.  Most men’s footwear brands make their unique version of a cap toe oxford in various colors and most have mass appeal.  This classic style allows you to wear your oxfords to work and special occasions.  Never feel under-dressed again, and rest assured the cap toe will never fall out of fashion.

The second dress shoe suggestion is a more modern look, the monk strap.  As you break-in your monk strap shoes, the material softens and you can usually slip them on like a loafer.  But, this look is much more sophisticated than your average loafer.  There are so many variations to choose from within the double monk or single monk styles.  Decide if you like a plain-toe or a more detailed approach, and this will help you decide which style you feel most comfortable in.  Once your level of detail is decided, the rest is easy.  Choose a style you will want to wear with every look in your closet, and your investment will be solidified.

Footwear Essentials for Men: The Modern Sneaker

.Reading time 1 minute.

Believe it or not, so many men still have not caught onto the modern sneaker trend!  For the last few years, sneakers have been the biggest menswear trend, by far.  If you’re still unsure about wearing a modern sneaker, next time you’re at work, or the bar, check out what your peers are wearing.  Take a look at your coworkers, and especially your boss, check out what they have on their feet.  Chances are, your job has become/is becoming a more business casual environment. 

Take a cue from the men around you, and give into this updated footwear trend.  It’s worth investing in a quality brand which offers comfort, a variety of traditional colors, and materials.  A quality pair of modern sneakers will certainly last you through this season, next spring, and many seasons to come.

Romantic Renaissance

.Reading time less than 1 minute.

From elements of delicate sheer fabrics and lace, to dramatic draping and excessive use of feathers and pearls.  This fall 2019 trend brings the age of renaissance and excess back, in the most romantic ways.  This ultra-feminine, dark, romantic-feeling trend ties all the best parts of the Renaissance-era together in a modern package.  High necklines and low hemlines are updated through use of sheer fabrics and intricate lace detailing in blouses and skirts.

This fall brings so many versatile trends! From metal elements, to the brightest neons, and 70s’ inspired work wear. Click each link to get the full scope of the fall trends you need to know about.