Modern Styles for Men's Shoes

Men's shoe selections can seem rather boring at first glance, with few designs or color options. But styles for men's shoes are evolving as men grow increasingly conscious of what goes on their feet.

For example, colors are no longer forbidden on men's shoes. The full array of colors was once confined to only golf and bowling footwear, but they have now spread into all men's shoe styles. From soles to laces, men now have more choices than just black, brown or white.

Basic, boring shades have been replaced with forest green, metallic blue and cranberry. Playful color combinations can also be found, along with fun stitching, assorted fabrics and extra embellishments.

The classics still hold strong in men-s shoe styles, though, with slick blacks and textured leathers as popular as ever. Regardless of style, the basic color matching rules still apply. Belts and shoes should be as closely matched as possible, and formal shoes should be slightly darker than the slacks they're paired with.

Dress Shoes
Wingtips will always be in style, and they work for a formal affair or just the office. The classic "V" wing shape and visible stitching are the wingtips' hallmarks. Wingtips can be found in loafers, boots and formal shoes. Many men's shoe companies are becoming whimsical with wingtips by creating brightly colored variations of the basic black-and-white two-tone theme.

Oxfords are your basic, smooth, laced men's dress shoe. Technically they have the lace right over the upper instep. They go with almost any tailored style, color or fabric. They're traditionally crafted from leather, and sometimes manufacturers use shiny patent leather. Their sleek look is useful for creating a crisp, professional impression.

Loafers are always slip-ons, and they are traditionally made from leather. With their crisply cut lines, they avoid looking like slippers. They're versatile and comfortable, and they fit with work or play. Loafers are, by far, the most popular style for a men's business shoe.

As far as the toebox goes, it doesn't matter if you go with square- or round-toe shoes. As long as the shoe looks good and the style is appropriate, most kinds of toe shapes will work. Be careful with moccasin toes, though, as they can make a dress shoe seem cheap or too relaxed.

Tassels and buckles can be a nice touch, but they tend to give a sportier look than appropriate for a true dress shoe. If you're going to use shoes with tassels or buckles, check the bottom hem of your pants to be sure they won't catch or drape oddly because of the decoration.

Casual Shoes
The most popular men's casual shoe is the basic sneaker. Sneakers are the ideal casual walking shoes for men, and they work for every activity possible, except for the office or a formal occasion. If you're a basketball star, you may be able to get away with a tuxedo and sneakers, but everyone else should refrain from combining the two.

Sneakers cover many categories in men's casual shoes. They're available for lounging, running and walking. They come in every color of the rainbow and are great to wear while running errands or mowing the lawn.

The proper sneaker style depends largely on what activity they'll be worn for. High-tops work well for any activity involving dirt, like mowing the lawn or gardening, since they keep crud from getting into the shoes. Low-tops are much better for walking or running because they're lightweight and let your feet breathe a little.

Sneaker extras all have to be decided on a personal basis. With options like enhanced traction, shock absorber and air cushions, it all just depends on what feels best. Make sure the special feature actually helps you, though, and doesn't just help inflate the sales price.

Boots are another sturdy stand-by in men's casual shoe styles. Cowboy, combat, hiking or moccasin, a boot that's comfortable and matches most of your outfits is a smart choice.

Make sure to match boots with appropriate pieces and styles. Combat boots do not go with an expensive suit unless you're a rock star. Cowboy boots seem to look better with business clothes when worn in Texas rather than in New Jersey.

Deck shoes are slick-soled shoes originally created to protect expensive wooden yacht decks from getting scuffed or ruined. They're traditionally created from canvas and can be laced or slip-on. They're obviously meant for casual wear and look awkward in an office. They should never be worn for sports, since they have a slick sole and no traction.

Sandal styles have really expanded from just the basic flip-flop or slip-on. Sandals come specialized for water use, hiking, sports, walking, gardening and just about everything else. They range from practical to dressy casual and are available in any color or material. The only styles not available are sandals that look good with socks, so always avoid that particular combination.

Keep in mind, whatever type of shoe you're buying, it's best to shop around the middle of your day. At this time, your feet will be slightly swollen, and you'll be closer to finding the perfect fit. Whatever shoes you buy should be comfortable to walk around in, even with heavy use.