The Toe Story: Of Men's Shoes

Q: How many types of shoes do men have?

A: More than you can ever imagine!

Q: What is the first thing a person notices about you?

A: Your shoes.

Q: What was thrown at a Former President at a press conference?

A: A shoe.

We use them as means of making an impression. We have to put ourselves in so many types of shoes in our lifetime that we have no choice but to familiarise ourselves with what is out there.

THE OXFORDS

These are the most formal of shoes. Its versatility makes it the number one contender for the first shoes you should own. Its cut and timeless style allows you to wear with evening wears (tuxedo), business attire and a slightly casual style involving sports coats.

Now, Oxfords come in many different types — plain, cap toe, wingtip, brogues, kiltie, and whole cut. Plain Oxfords are the most formal; whole cut are the least. And then there is the derby, the younger sibling of Oxfords.

THE LOAFERS

A loafer comes handy in casual situations where you want a sophisticated look.

These come in the form of penny, tassel, horse-bit, and kiltie loafers.

THE MONK STRAPS

These are less formal when compared to Oxfords and Derbys, and so, look great with casual attires such as blazer and chino combinations, smart casuals and business casuals.

THE BOOTS

What is so great about boots is that its long shape gives a continuous impression making you look taller. In addition, the shape and structure of a boot will make you appear as more confident and refined.

Chukka Boots are the least formal of boots and look best with jeans, chinos and corduroys.

The first you should own is the Chelsea Boots. Its versatility boot allows you to wear it with suits and even jeans.

Dress Boots are more like the grandfather of Oxfords.

Lastly, you have the Jodhpur boots. You will notice the Lords in the series Downton Abbey wear this while on horseback.

SLIP-ONS

As the name suggests, these shoes are easy to wear and perfect for on the go. Unlike loafers, these shoes are much more casual mainly because of their cut, sole, and material.

BOAT SHOES

These are a fundamental part of slip-ons and look best with casual attire such as chinos and shorts. These are best recommended for summer and for you to even look stylish when at the beach.

SNEAKERS

You can write volumes about them for they come in so many styles that in this day and age they can be styled with almost anything you imagine.

Shoes form an essential part of your attire. They can literally make or break your look and so it is a must for you to understand your shoes and wear it in accordance to the occasion. With time, you will notice how the right shoe pulls in compliments for you and adds a bounce of confidence to your personality.

By Ali Sakhi Khan

Photo: Shahrear Kabir Heemel

Models: Daud and Maruf

Shoes: Apex Footwear

Styling: Sonia Yeasmin Isha

Location: Pan Pacific Sonargaon, Dhaka