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<p>The post How To Measure Heel Height on Dress Shoes (Men and Women) first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>The heel is an essential part of any type of shoe and has become an integral part of a wide variety of dress shoes. As such, knowing how to measure shoe heel height is key. However, a question that comes up almost anytime is why do men’s dress shoes have heels?
While this may seem like a simple and straightforward question to answer, there is actually a good deal of background and history as to how the heel came to be.
Once we understand where the heel comes from and what it's for, we'll also learn how to measure heel height on shoes.
The heel on dress shoes and more pronounced shoes like high-heels are quite unique because their history has a very different story to tell than what you would think.
Modern-day heels are more focused around fashion trends and comfort, while traditional heels were designed to make horseback riding easier for riders.
The heel of a shoe would help add a place for the shoes to lock into a horse stirrup.
That way, there is additional security for those riding horses for battle or hunting.
With heels having such a practical use back in the early days of humanity, it is interesting to see them being used as a modern form of status and elegance.
However, the heels that we once again associate with feminine style were still not intended for females until modern times.
The royal males were interestingly the ones who were seen wearing high heels in public.
From the ancient horseback riders of the middle east to modern heels that you can find on nearly all pairs of shoes, there is also a rich history of the heel on men's dress shoes.
Like every other piece of clothing from older times, the heel has evolved from its roots of horseback riding.
There is no longer a nobility associated with high heels, so there is a gap between old traditions and new ones.
Many historians attribute this removal of higher heels on men’s shoes as a result of the French Revolution, when heels were seen as a sign of the hated patriarchy.
Eventually, higher heels became a grim sign of tyranny until they later became a fashion staple for women.
Despite history and fashion, there is still the question to be asked why men’s dress shoes have heels in modern times.
A popular belief as to why many dress shoes targeted at men have begun to start using heels again is due to their acceptance in the new wave of dress shoe styles.
Oxfords, monk straps, Chelsea boots, and almost every other popular dress shoe design soon embraced the addition of the heel again.
The shoes were seen on movies and celebrities wore them often, so they were taken to the mainstream men’s fashion world, which helped them made a good comeback.
The heel's size also increased until seeing men and women with heels became normal.
Heels have gone from a status of nobility to being seen on every dress shoes a man or woman owns.
To see why modern men’s heels still exist, let’s see why the modern dress shoe should even need a heel in the first place.
With both men’s and women’s dress shoes, the presence of heels makes them stand out as unique among the rest of the shoes in a person’s closet.
From the sizing of the heel to the style, men and women’s heels look very different.
Despite the many style differences, there are many commonalities present among the shoes that we can see on either option.
The primary similarity we see between the men’s and women’s heel purpose is to elevate the wearer's height.
Heels on dress shoes have become something of a staple of a more formal outfit as they both literally and figuratively elevate the wearer.
As you can see across a wide range of men’s dress shoes like oxfords and loafers, they have a higher heel than a standard pair of sneakers you would wear when running.
This elevated heel has become popular recently since it gives the wearer a few extra inches of height when they wear their dress shoes.
Almost all women’s dress shoes follow a similar fashion to the men’s design by having a heel on almost every variation of dress shoes.
Many people will associate the heels on a woman’s shoes with those seen on the very tall high-heel design of dress shoes, but there are heels to be found on a vast majority of women’s dress shoes.
Dress shoes designed for everyone will have some form of a heel to help the shoes and the wearer stand out.
Having a good-sized heel on the bottom of a shoe will give a formal outfit some added taste and elegance for any occasion.
Heels are very quickly becoming something of a fashion staple in the dress shoe world with their style.
As a bonus, heels are also showing to serve a practical use when added to a pair of nice shoes.
People want to protect their dress shoe investments by protecting them from damage to save time and money later on.
The back area of dress shoes are often the most damaged, so an added heel means added protection.
This new layer of protection means fewer trips to the cobbler to get the dress shoes' sensitive leather repaired.
The heel region of a shoe can often be exposed to a large amount of pressure when you walk normally, which can lead to increased wear in that area.
As such, adding a larger heel section to a pair of dress shoes that are generally expensive can make the shoes last longer.
Adding a heel to normally fragile dress shoes goes a long way to give them support and protection.
Men’s and women’s heels have quite a few differences that determine how each one functions and helps the shoe overall.
The difference between a heel on a man’s shoe and that on a woman’s are quite unique.
Both style and functionality play a significant role in modern heel uses.
As to why do men's dress shoes have heels, the heel gives more rise and protection to the shoe.
Most men’s dress shoes are made of leather and don’t have much protection.
The heel adds reinforcement to the shoe so that the leather does not need to touch the ground and break.
As a bonus, the heel on men’s dress shoes can easily add an inch or two to the wearer’s height.
The heel on a woman’s shoe acts differently since it is primarily designed to lift the wearer.
High heels, in particular, help the wearer have more defined legs and heightened foot placement.
However, the aggressive angles and higher heel heights are something that not all women are comfortable wearing.
That is why lower height heels are so popular since they give a nice boost in height without the discomfort.

While measuring the heel of a shoe is more often a consideration made for women’s higher heeled shoes, understanding the size of a heel on any shoe can come in handy for anyone.
If you are a taller person, you will likely want to look for dress shoes with less pronounced heels to make you even taller.
When looking to measure the height of any heels, all you really need is a ruler or tape measure.
For you to get the most accurate measurement, a flat surface is ideal so that the measurement reflects the height of the heel on a standard surface.
With your heels in place and your measuring device in hand, you are ready to start measuring.
The best way to measure the size of a heel is to measure the heel's distance where it touches the floor to where it connects to the bottom of the shoe.
On the vast majority of dress shoes, the area where the heel connects to the shoe will be along a seam line that acts to hold the two pieces together.
With your measuring tool, you can now measure the said area in inches or centimeters to see how much of a lift you would get when wearing the pair of shoes.
Understanding the height of the heels you like is important when buying in the future.
With an idea for your preferred size, you can buy shoes with that heel length.
From the office to the dance floor, every shoe and heel offers something different to the wearer.
Thus, there are a variety of heel designs and slight changes between styles that make specific types suited for particular needs.
Let’s look at a few things to look for when choosing your next pair of dress shoes with a heel.
The heel size is something that we have covered already. It is the one that determines the amount of added height that you will get with a pair of shoes.
Knowing that you would rather have a two-inch heel over a three-inch heel will allow you to get the perfect dress shoes for your needs.
The right sized heel is the one you would love to wear.
In general, taller heels will be more reserved for women’s shoe designs since men’s shoes will likely only have a slight heel rise.
On the other hand, shorter heel height will provide a more stable walking and standing platform for most.
That is why most heeled shoes that are labeled comfortable are generally on the shorter side.
Even with men’s dress shoes, small height variations on dress shoes can lead to a vastly different wearing experience.
Generally, men should choose shoes with heels that are below 1.2 inches or three centimeters.
That is because it will look more of a pair of boots rather than dress shoes.
That said, you can go a little higher if you're height is below five feet, and your main purpose is to elevate your height.
In a similar vein to the height of the heel, the heel's width can also have an impact on how the overall shoe will look and feel.
The heel design on most men’s shoes will cover most of the heel area of the shoe and will more than likely sit flush with the shoe's silhouette.
As far as women’s shoes go, high heels will have a skinny bottom point for higher looks.
Unfortunately, the added height of the heels also hurts the overall stability of the shoe.
Despite not seeming like an important consideration for such a small part of a shoe, the heel's material can play two vital roles in the overall usability of the shoe.
The material used in constructing the shoes primarily affects the grip.
A rubber heel provides more grip when walking than a leather heel that could cause a slip.
The material a heel is made out of also determines how durable it will be when walking.
Certain materials are better for impact protection and getting dirty, while others are somewhat fragile and built for looks.
The last thing that can play a role in how a heel feels for you and fits into your wardrobe is to see how it is attached to the shoe itself.
For the majority of lower end and more affordable dress shoes, you will see that they are attached by glue to the shoe.
That is not ideal for a pair of shoes you want to last a lifetime.
You should look for a heel attached via a Blake stitch or Goodyear welt that generally holds up better.
Having a stitch also means you can replace the heel down the line much easier.
The toe area of dress shoes will not only affect the shoes' appearance but also your comfort while wearing them.
Something too pointy, square, and round will not look attractive, which means going for dress shoes with perfectly symmetrical toe shapes is a no-no.
It is always best to go for those that have a similar silhouette to your feet.
As we have come to understand, there is a lot more to the heel on a dress shoe than meets the eye.
We need to ensure that we are taking the necessary steps to keep it looking and working it’s best.
Let’s look at a few of the best and most effective ways to make sure the heels of your shoes are always in their best condition.
Just because your heels are causing you to slip doesn’t mean you have to put them away in the back of the closet.
Heel savers and similar products have become essential for many.
You can add a special layer to your heels to help them last longer and get you a better grip.
Heel savers can be a great help, especially for high heels with just one point touching the ground.
Wearing high heels doesn’t have to be scary with heel savers to protect them from breaking when you take a wrong step.
While this may seem like an obvious piece of advice, several people completely neglect to clean their shoes' heels.
Cleaning the heels of your shoes will help them give you stability back and allow them to last longer.
Something like rubbing alcohol can be your heel’s best friend.
This simple solution cleans off the gunk and dirt that builds up over time.
Dress shoe heels and those with larger and higher heels will both benefit from the cleaning.
Something that people never really think about is the way they walk and apply force when walking.
This can have a serious impact on the heels' and shoes' overall lifespan and hinder their ability to protect our feet.
Too much pressure can seriously damage our heels when walking.
The repeated impact from hard walking or dragging feet can damage smaller heals and break higher ones.
Take some time to see how you walk and apply pressure to shoes.
Lighter steps could be an easy way to save your new heeled shoes.
If you want your heels to last as long as possible, you need to care for them properly.
That means taking them off slowly and not just ripping them off because you are tired.
Ideally, using a shoehorn ensures safe and gentle shoe removal.
Small things can add up over time if you are not careful with your shoe heels.
Neglecting to care for them once leads you to do it many times over without a thought.
Heels are sensitive and need special care to keep you supported.
A common argument is whether short or high heels are better. When it comes to men’s dress shoes, this argument is less pronounced yet still something to consider.
Regardless if you are looking for new oxfords or high heels, picking the right heel height is an important consideration.
With high heels, you are obviously going to get a higher level of elevation with many women’s high heels making the legs look better for formal wear.
Most high heel options will be styled for women as that is the direction that fashion has gone.
The primary downside of a higher heel is that they are harder to walk in.
The smaller base with a larger height means you are walking on mini stilts with every step.
The design of many high heels is also not for maximum comfort.
The shorter heel on both men and women’s shoes make them easier to walk.
The shorter height means less balancing and a more natural position for the feet.
High heels are great for a short event but can get rather annoying after some time.
Despite just being a small part of your overall shoe, the heel on your dress shoes is essential.
Understanding how to measure heel height on shoes will allow you to shop with confidence going forward.
Despite just being a piece of material, heels have quite a bit of personality.
Height is associated with power. Of the last twenty United States presidents only two have been under 5’10” and ten have been over six feet. Short men are more marginalized than taller men. According to Medical News Today, the average height of a male in the US is 5’9” and the average for a woman is 5’4”. 5’8” is generally accepted as a minimum height for female models.
Heel height helps address the problems associated with short stereotypes and provides the extra height. A pair of oxford shoes with a thicker sole and the heels of the shoes created to match that are the perfect pair of formal shoes to provide the extra inches of height, so you are not overlooked.
Not only Oxford’s but other types of footwear can also feature different heights. These range from basketball shoes to cowboy boots.
Here are three final tips.
1. Avoid shoes with a square toe as they do give the impression of reducing the extra inches of additional height you are aiming for.
2. Be wary of any pair of shoes where the heel is too high. Remember that looking uncomfortable does you no service. Any height increase must be comfortable and not cause pain. Experiment with the best height for you.
3. For women, in particular, it is a good idea to try to take an additional pair of low heel shoes to change into, in case the high heel shoes become too painful to wear.
<p>The post How To Measure Heel Height on Dress Shoes (Men and Women) first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How To Break in Your New Leather Dress Shoes Quickly first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Breaking in new dress shoes such as Oxfords, Derbies, and brogues can sometimes be challenging. Most types of dress shoes are usually made of leather. Imitation leather dress shoes made with human-made materials will also need to be broken in; however, these shoes won't always mold to the shape of your feet in the same way that a leather shoe can.
Lots of things affect how comfortable dress shoes are. Does your brogue have a rubber sole or leather sole? Are your toes unusually long or do you have flatter arches?
Should shoes fit snug? There are two schools of thought when it comes to choosing the right size and fit of the shoe. You don't want to choose a size that's too small and will rub on your toes, but a roomier shoe will also be a problem as, in time, it will stretch.
Generally, you're advised to make sure that the shoe is ‘snug’ on your foot. There are also cultural differences when it comes to how well a shoe should fit you. Europeans prefer a tighter fitting dress shoe, while Americans and the English prefer a looser fit.
When you're looking at various styles of shoes and buying shoes from Europe or Britain, you must remember that the fit may be different. Because of this, it's important to consider the kind of fit you prefer and work from there.
This is going to dictate not only where your shoes are made but also the kind of fit they'll end up having once they've been adequately worn in. While you're shopping for shoes, make sure you take a look at where they're made. Also, take into account whether they trend towards being true to size or have a larger or smaller fit.
Dress shoes like Oxfords and brogues are generally highly engineered and designed to be comfortable to wear. However, there are different shaped dress shoe toe styles: rounded, more square, or pointy. You need to choose a shoe style that best suits your foot shape too.
Something important to consider here is whether or not you have wider feet, as that can change the options that are available to you. Furthermore, it's wise to consider the kinds of outfits you plan on wearing with the shoes so that you can get something with the right complementary style.
Generally speaking, you have probably spent a lot of money on your shoes, so you should probably avoid the ‘extreme’ methods of making your shoes more comfortable. Unless they're far too small, stretching them will be permanent and could ruin them.
It's typically much better to choose shoes with a closer fit to your foot. That way, they can stretch into shape through normal wear without being too uncomfortable. If you need to, try out a few different size options to ensure you get the best possible fit.
Placing bags of water into your shoes and then placing them into the freezer overnight is one way to stretch your shoes out. The water will freeze, and the ice expands.
In the morning, your shoes will be stretched out. However, the leather will probably be dried out too and could have water damage.
While there might be some rare instances in which this method works, it's generally not a good idea because of the potential damage it can cause. If you do try it, keep in mind that your shoes may be damaged afterward. It's often better to return or replace the shoes with something that offers a better fit instead of trying this.
Another way to stretch out the leather is to apply high heat. If you heat the leather while wearing the shoes, they'll stretch out and fit better. However, once again, you're stretching and damaging the leather by applying heat. This will be permanent, and your shoes will also stretch during the normal process of wearing them.
Like the freezing method, you'll need to realize that your shoes could be irreparably damaged by this method. They also run the risk of ending up too loose if you adjust them to the perfect fit and then continue to wear them in.
Don’t wear your new shoes for the whole day. Instead, wear them at home first, or for shorter trips. You could also take along a second pair of shoes. Over time, your dress shoes will stretch, and mold to the shape of your foot. This process can take a few days or weeks, but the leather will soften, and your dress shoe will become more flexible.
Wear socks but remember that leather is a natural material that will not magically stretch back. You can manually manipulate the leather where it may be hurting you, such as ‘riding your ankle’ or pinching your toes. You can also wear cushioned plasters if you have developed blisters.
Placing wooden shoe stretchers into your dress shoes overnight will help break in new shoes. Or you could take your shoes to a specialist and have your new shoes professionally stretched. Stuffing socks and newspaper into your shoes can also help to soften up the shoe.
These methods are generally much better as they offer a more natural way to stretch the shoes into shape. A professional will also be able to make the needed changes with a much lower risk of causing permanent damage to the shoes themselves.
The best way for you to initially break your shoes in is to wear them. Slowly, over time, the shoe will mold to your feet. However, if your dress shoes are still hurting you, then you need to look carefully at the fit and size. If your arches are too low, you can consider adding arch supports or an inner sole to your shoe.
Your foot may be slipping too much inside the shoe or running on the shoe. Similarly, if your foot is just too wide for the style of a dress shoe that you've chosen, it will continue to be painful to wear and will not support your foot correctly.
Your mobility will be hampered, and ‘breaking’ your shoe in may cause damage to your tendons and nerves. If this is the case, then you need to choose a different style and size and start again.
When it comes to the fit of your shoe, it's not generally a good idea to “tough it out” as your feet can be damaged. It's far better to take your time and select a shoe that you can wear in, while still being relatively comfortable.
All quick fixes will work, but you will need to be cautious. Is the whole shoe too tight or is just a specific part causing discomfort? You can make a solution of rubbing alcohol and water and rub it into the inside of your shoes. Place your shoes on your feet immediately and wear them.
This will help the shoe to mold to the shape of your foot. As with any quick-fix solution, you need to be sensible. If you don’t have much time and are desperate to alter the fit of your shoe, then carefully go ahead.
However, leather does stretch, and applying a lot of leather conditioning products may be a better idea. Softening the leather is probably a better way to make your dress shoe easier to wear if you're in a crunch. You may also crack the leather if you bend your dress shoes too much.
If you're considering a method like this, make sure to take into consideration how long you'll need to deal with the discomfort in the shoe. If it isn't long and you'll be able to find a more accessible option later in the comfort of your home, that's generally a better option.
The best way to break in your new shoes successfully is to do it slowly. It will probably take about 2 -3 weeks, and yes, you'll have to suffer a little. However, there are several products and methods you can use to lessen any discomfort.
Keep in mind that while a little discomfort can be expected, you shouldn't be in extreme pain. When you aren't wearing the shoe, wooden shoe stretchers can also help to get them to fit right. Be sure to wear socks and plasters (if necessary) during this time.
Remember, you shouldn’t wear your dress shoes for a full day at first, but rather in shorter bursts. You'll be rewarded with a well-fitting dress shoe which has molded to your foot and will be comfortable to wear.
So we’ve already discussed and established some tried and tested techniques for breaking in those new shoes. After all, you've invested in a pair of quality footwear, designed to last so your pain will ultimately be rewarded when they eventually fit you like a glove.
Your shoes will most definitely stand you in good stead down the line with any painful pinching or discomfort behind you. So the real moral here is not to get discouraged and remember that while you might have to break your shoes in gently at first until your feet fit them, pretty soon your patience will pay off.
Don’t delay, go right now and grab your shiny new shoes from out of their box, pop them on your feet and have another ten minutes just wearing them around the house while you get on with a few extra chores. Walk up and down the stairs, for example; even wear them while you're preparing dinner this evening. The point is, get used to how they feel on your feet while you're indoors at home.
As we already discussed, the watchwords when breaking in a new pair of shoes are, briefly and often. Don’t feel that you have to wear them for hours at a time. They may have felt initially comfortable, and they'll soon feel part of you too with some time and effort. So to recap, we recommend regularly wearing them for say 10 minutes at a time to get you started.
Why don’t you try taking your new shoes along with you, but only wearing them sporadically at work, for example? That way you know you can travel back and forth from home in your more comfortable, well broken in shoes while effectively giving your new ones a bit of a trial run.
If that's all taking too much time and quite frankly, you just love your new shoes and you want to get down to the business of actually wearing them, then as a final option, you could head back into your local cobbler. Forget the heat and cold remedies, filling your shoes with ice packs or even potatoes. Instead, hand them over to the professionals, and they'll have you skipping with joy out of the shop for less than a decent pair of dress socks will cost you. They'll be able to machine stretch the shoes to your exact specifications, and after just a couple of hours drying time, you should be good to go.
The effects of new shoes can be devastating as far too many school children forced into new leather shoes would be able to tell you. Even if they are the right fit in the shop, the effects cannot be felt as a two-minute test walk is not a long time. They will feel like comfortable shoes but will still need to be broken in to avoid sore feet and far worse.
Shoes can rub on hot spots and create painful blisters. Breaking in shoes properly for a couple of days can help avoid that awful heel pain that we can experience while we wait for the stiff leather to become a comfortable fit.
Looking good is an important thing. Feeling good is even more important and a rushing new pair of boots out is not worth the foot pain you can experience if they are too tight across the tops of your toes. Remember that in a situation like this that a pair of thick socks does not help; it makes the constriction tighter.
Remember the best time is a comfortable time and while that new pair of leather shoes is not a good fit, they are the wrong shoes to wear. More importantly, you avoid pain, painkillers, and in some cases the doctor.
<p>The post How To Break in Your New Leather Dress Shoes Quickly first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post Guide to Lace and Tie Your Dress Shoes the Right Way first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
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Does it matter how you lace men's dress shoes with shoelaces? (Yes, it does.) Or what are the right shoelaces that you should use? What's the difference? Men’s style experts agree that amongst the different lacing methods bar, or straight lacing, is more formal, and the only way to properly lace dress shoes.
Criss-cross lacing, one of the open-lace styles is too casual and not appropriate for formal events. By contrast, bar lacing is one of the closed-laced styles. Walk down the aisle, looking dashing, and be in classic tip-top shape for that formal business meeting. Impress your lady, with a pair of well-laced dress shoes. Yes, she will notice the difference.
Are all your ‘good shoes’ dress shoes? No, they're not. There are many styles of men’s shoes, and they aren't all ‘dress’ There are formal shoes and casual shoes. There are Loafers, Brogues, Oxford shoes, Wingtip brogues, Chukkas, Derby shoes, Boots, and Monk straps.
What people often fail to understand is that while shoelaces serve a very practical purpose, they are also an accessory. They add to smart shoes and formal attire to make the appearance even more elegant.
Different types of shoes have laces that are specifically engineered for that particular shoe. Laces are designed to complement the lacing style and function of the shoe. Laces for athletic shoes are very different from laces for formal shoes. What kind of laces do you need for dress shoes?
Dress shoelaces are made from different materials and are designed to fit through the eyelets, or holes, in the ‘vamp’ part of the shoe. These are the two pieces that open to allow you to slip on your shoe more easily when the laces are undone. Ill-fitting laces will make it more difficult to lace up, and open, your shoes. Make sure the length is correct.
There are two main styles of dress shoelaces. They can be either thin, round laces or thin and flat laces. Both types have a waxed edge.
Laces can be made from either organic fibers or synthetic. What's the difference? Well, synthetic laces are very strong, but, tend to come undone more easily.
You have the wrong type of laces, perhaps of inferior quality, that does not ‘grip’ well. You may have experienced this irritation, and not know why. Are you constantly tying your laces when you're wearing a particular pair of shoes? Perhaps, it's time to change the laces. This is a simple way of up-styling your shoes too. You can even go for stylish, bright-colored shoelaces, and stand out from the crowd.
Even if you've bought brand new formal shoes, you need to check the quality of the laces. Cheaply made laces can snap, and it's often worth your while to upgrade to better quality shoelaces. The right shoelaces are not an expensive investment.
Dress shoelaces are a ‘finer’ styled shoelace than regular ones. Never buy nylon athletic laces, but, instead, buy the best durable dress laces you can afford. There is no doubt that this is the best option to round off the right pair of dress shoes.
You could choose cotton laces or a poly blend/nylon lace. Remember that they must be either thin and round, or thin and flat.
There are two factors to consider, that will help you decide what length lace you'll need. The first is the number of ‘eyelet pairs,’ or ‘holes’ on your shoe. The second is the width and size of your foot.
Why does this matter? Well, over time, your shoe may stretch a little, or your feet may be a bit bigger. Generally, you'll only ever be deciding between two lengths of laces.
Dress shoes either have an even, or odd number, of eyelet pairs, and you choose your laces accordingly.
Men’s fashion stylists suggest that you check the laces that come with your shoes. Remember that even some higher-quality dress shoes may be sold with inferior quality laces.
Your shoes are an investment and upgrading to superior laces is recommended.
Men’s fashion has also seen, historically, some very interesting trends with laces. There have been satin ribbon laces, velvet ribbon laces, and wider laces.
Men then tied small bows, which matched their bow ties, on their shoes, and looked very dapper. Trends change and, even if you fancy some vintage laces, you may have a problem fitting them into modern shoes, as the eyelets may be too small.
Dress shoes are best paired with a classic pair of dress shoelaces to ensure a formal look.
You need to count the number of pairs of eyelets – they will be odd or even. This is important.
You must not start threading your lace straight away. If your shoe has an uneven number of eyelets, the threading process will not even out, and one side will be shorter and irritate you – forever. What you'll need to do is make sure that one end stays a few inches longer, probably two or three.
Bar lacing or straight bar lacing looks smarter, and the laces are over the eyelets, not under. Feed the laces in, through the holes, and then, like a big loop stitch, take one lace over to the opposite hole.
Repeat with the right, and left laces. Do not cross the laces over. The same lace will thread over the same level eyelet pair and create straight lines. This is bar lacing and will compliment your dress shoes' appearance. The neat horizontal lines create an elegant, clean look and are the right way to enhance your overall look.
It may be surprising, but the difference in appearance is far from being a subtle difference.
Traditionally men’s dress shoes are worn to smart events or maybe part of your formal business attire. ‘Fancy colored’ laces are also available but proceed with extreme caution.
Your enthusiastically chosen bright-colored shoelaces may scream poor taste, when worn with beautiful pair of Oxfords, to a business meeting. However, they can add a lot of character, and be a fun choice if you’re wearing formal dress shoes to a less formal event.
The golden rule, often quoted, for men’s shoe choices is this – “Avoid brown in town.’’ Generally, brown shoes, even dress shoes, are not a good choice for the evening.
It's usually better to wear black dress shoes in the evening when you're ‘out on the town.’ Be sure that your laces are threaded correctly in your shoes, and never – never – criss-cross your dress shoelaces.
It may seem like a small difference, but it looks much smarter. Keep your dress shoelaces straight, or bar, and enjoy looking your stylish best.
<p>The post Guide to Lace and Tie Your Dress Shoes the Right Way first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How to Clean Leather Dress Shoes Without Polish (At Home) first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Disaster! Those lovely leather dress shoes you hoped to wear tomorrow night are not in good shape and you have no shoe polish. So how do you solve this? How did you do manage shoe care, and can you find a good alternative? The answer is yes and here we examine effective ways to achieve this.
Never rush to polish. We need to start with clean shoes and it just needs a few simples steps. Start with the simplest step and remove the shoelaces. Once this is done, we can start to clean the shoes. There are several ways to do this, but there is one essential rule – if you use water, get rid of the excess water and let the shoes dry before polishing.
Soap and water are always something we have to hand, Using a sponge, a damp cloth or even an old T-shirt. Smear this with a small bit of dish soap and using a circular motion, clean in small circles. Clean over the entire shoe, If you have access to a shoe tree, insert that in your shoe to ensure that the shoe is firm and you can get to even the small areas as the leather will not move as you clean.
Mix this in the ratio of 1 part vinegar and 2 parts water. This is great for areas with extreme winters as it helps dissolve winter salt stains that can build up in such places.
Use a lightly moistened cotton ball in the nail polish remover and wipe over the shoe. This is very useful for shoes that have been polished several times as it can strip the excess polish.
It can’t become simpler. Brush firmly over the entire shoe, removing all the dirt. This can also be used as a buffing brush.
If you have time this should be the next step. It helps rejuvenate the shoes. Granted you may not have the required items, but it is worthwhile to do this if possible. It has the effect of improving the lifetime of the footwear. Leather can dry and crack after cleaner. Remember that after all, it was once skin.
There are three products that can be used for this. All of these not only rejuvenate the leather but also help protect it. These are:
Leather Conditioner – Use a cloth and rub the conditioner over the entire shoe. Allow it to dry.
Oil Renovator –This is applied in the same way as a leather conditioner and needs ten minutes or more to be absorbed by the leather.
Saddle Soap – Dampen a sponge or cloth and rub it over the soap until lather forms. Rub the lather over the shoe and let it dry.
With preparation done, we move on to what alternatives there are to the polish that is absent. There are surprisingly many. One rule applies for each of these alternatives – always buff afterward to ensure

Using the inside of a banana peel, rub it over the whole shoe. Wipe off the excess with a paper towel or a cotton cloth. The downside is that it can take a while to remove the peel.
Hair Gel
This only needs a small amount of gel and so many people have some to hand. Apply a light dab and rub well using a dry cloth. Make sure, if possible, not to use a gel that comes at a high price point.
Olive oil is a household staple in many homes. Use a mister and spray a little on the shoes. Let them sit for a while and then wipe down with a dry soft cloth. Optionally, add a few drops of lemon juice and buff them for a high shine. There are two warnings here. Using excess oil can be difficult to wipe off and too much lemon can make the leather dry out.
Olive oil will be quickly absorbed by your patent leather shoes and keep you with shiny shoes for a while.
Yet another item that most households have, and the method is quick and remarkably effective. Simply peel the potato and rub it over the shoes. After that wipe it with a clean cloth. You need to wipe it quickly before the potato juice dries and work quickly before the potato turns brown.
Simply rub the juice of half a slice of orange directly on your shoes and leave them to dry before buffing them to a shine. Orange is common in things like dishwashing liquid because it cleans so well, and this is an added advantage to using it. It can however be quite wet so drying can take a while.
Again, a common item that most of us have. A small amount on a ball of cotton wool can go a very long way when well buffed and can give a mirror shine to the shoes. Some lotions can be very greasy and should be avoided. It is a good idea to save money by avoiding high-end lotions.
Perhaps the most important thing is to check the odor of the oil as some can smell vile. If you have one that smells decent. Use a little on a cotton wool ball and rub it into the shoes. Let the oil sink and after it has, then use a clean cloth to buff them.
This is for white dress shoes. You can use an old toothbrush for this or a soft brush and rub it in and then buff it to make each shoe shine.
This has been used for centuries to polish shoes. It is easily available but can be expensive. The beeswax needs to be heated either in a microwave or by placing it in a bowl over hot water. Getting it softened to the right consistency can be a challenge. When it is sufficiently soft, rub it into the surface of the leather, and after that buff it to get a superb shine.
Making Your Own Shoe Polish
To make your own shoe polish you will need:
Water
1 ounce of beeswax. This should be white beeswax as it does not add color
3 ounces of olive oil
Optionally 1 ½ teaspoons of brown or black oxide pigment powder if you want colored polish.
Simmer two inches of water in a double boiler and add the beeswax and olive oil. Stir until dissolved,
If needed grind the oxide to powder and stir it in. Place in a jar or tin and allow to harden for an hour.
This polish can be used sparingly as a little goes a long way.
The gorgeous hibiscus flower works very well for leaving shoes shiny and it couldn’t be simpler. Simply rub the flower over the shoe for a bit and then clean it with a clean cloth. As always, buff the shoes afterward for that perfect shine.

Oregano leaves contain essential oils that are useful for treating leather, Rub the shoes with the leaves and then buff them well to get a great shine. A big plus to oregano leaves is that they have both antifungal and antibacterial properties which makes them fantastic for looking after leather.
This is a use for the old sticks of lip balm lying around the place. Dab the lip balm on the shoes and rub it with a soft cloth. Use a soft rag and rub until your shoes shine.
This has mixed results on leather shoes and is recommended with caution but can provide a brilliant shine. It may be an idea to try this on an older pair of shoes first and decide whether you are happy with the result before using it on a newer pair of leather shoes.
Use is typical. Using a small amount, rub it in and then buff. Just be careful how much you use as using too much can leave shoes greasy.
This is an expensive choice and works very well. Dab a small amount of your shoes and use a cotton wool ball to rub in small circles to bring out the shine. After that, buff with a clean rag until the shoes shine luminously.
Mix two parts oil and one part oil and combine them well. Rub some over each of the shoes and in a short while you will have a great shine. This solution is not without problems though as linseed oil can take a while to dry out and can result in mildew.
Many polishes contain unhealthy chemicals so using many of the suggestions listed here are environmentally friendly solutions as well. For this reason alone, these alternatives to shoe polish are worth investigating as a permanent solution to shoe care.
<p>The post How to Clean Leather Dress Shoes Without Polish (At Home) first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post Do You Tie Dress Shoes? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Your shoelaces serve more than the essential function of keeping your shoes securely fastened. They can also complete the overall look of your outfit. The style and shoe color you go for, and even how you opt to tie them shouldn’t be overlooked or considered as an after-thought. It can be every bit as noticeable as the shoe itself, especially when it comes to the elegant and stylish look of your favorite dress shoes.
Chances are you won’t have more than two pairs of expensive lace-up oxfords in your wardrobe. The good news then is that by changing the color and styling of your tie up laces, you can often create the effect of wearing an entirely new shoe. How easy and inexpensive is that? The great thing about shoelaces is they're just as easy to take out as they are to put in, so learn a few new techniques with how to fasten them.
Shoelaces have been around since time immemorial. Man has always shown his inventive and creative flair, and as early as 3000 BC, some rudimentary form of a shoelace has likely been in existence. Traditional laces have developed over time and have historically been made from all manner of natural fibers, from hemp and cotton to various forms of leather. If you could manufacture rope from it, usually it followed that there was a shoelace made of the same material.
Even when we were little boys, we had to wear formal clothes to formal events. This also meant dressing up in formal lace up dress shoes. It was usually our dad’s job to tie the laces, and I doubt there's a kid out there who actually paid attention to the process.
But as we get older and become adults, there are no excuses for not knowing how to tie our dress shoes correctly. Unless all you ever wear are sneakers, of course. To answer the fundamental question, dress shoes DO need to be tied, and there's no excuse for wearing them untied for any occasion.
Before we get started on the ins and outs of tying your dress shoes, you may be interested to know a little bit about where this idea of tying shoes came from. As far back as about 3,500 B.C, people have been using different materials such as hemp, rawhide, and other similar kinds of materials to tie shoes. There were many situations even back then in which laces were needed to help keep different types of shoes on the feet of their owners.
The kind of shoelaces used was different depending on the sort of shoe they were being used with. Not all shoelaces work well on all types of shoes. It could also often depend on the region the people lived in. Naturally, not all styles of footwear will work in all environments. Just like today, using the wrong type of shoelace on a particular kind of shoe would have been considered inappropriate.
Today, there's an even wider variety of shoe styles and unique laces out there. It's important to not only know what types of laces go with each shoe but also how to tie those laces. Naturally, you don't want to go about tying a pair of Oxfords in the same way that you'd tie a pair of Vans skater-style shoes. That would be a way to get some curious looks for sure!
Luckily, when you go in to purchase a new pair of dress shoes, there will be plenty of examples on display to look at for an idea of what you need to do. Otherwise, there's no shame in asking a professional if you're new to dress shoe lacing. It's essential to keep in mind that having sloppily-tied dress shoes is even more of a faux pas than it would be with something like sneakers.
When it comes to the sophisticated and elegant nature of the dress shoe market, shoelaces do matter. The last thing that you want to do is ruin the overall aesthetics of your shoes with a pair of thin, cheap, and downright nasty laces! You need your laces to be 31.5 inches long, made of waxed cotton ideally. Preferably, especially for an Oxford-style dress shoe, round and thin as these are easier to thread and more resilient so they shouldn’t break.
The most formal dress shoes, the Oxfords, are characterized by a closed-lace system, meaning that the laces close up the shoe and keep it securely and comfortably around your foot. The usual way for lacing Oxford shoes is the straightforward bar lace or straight-laced way. This is considered the traditional, formal style and the only recommended method for tying the formal Oxford dress shoe.
The tying of the formal Oxford dress shoe also needs to be elegant and tidy. Depending on the shoelace, the top knot will look like a bow, adding to the elegance of the shoe.
Another type of dress shoe that requires lacing and tying is the Derby shoe. Derbies are considered less dressy than Oxfords but are still formal business attire and are also appropriate to wear in more laid-back combinations. The lacing of the Derby shoe is usually done in a crisscross style. This is considered to be a less formal and more laid-back style.
The crisscross style of lacing is the most secure type of lacing and has the most “holding” power. This is common with the Derby shoe. The design of the Derby shoe is an opened lace system, and the crisscross lacing style fits perfectly with the design of the shoe. There is, of course, nothing wrong with the bar lace (straight lacing) system for lacing and tying them.
Laces are supplied when you get a new pair of dress shoes, but you should not limit yourself to just one pair of laces. You can certainly add a little “wow” effect to your old shoes by simply using new laces, even in a different color.
The best quality laces that should be used with the most formal dress shoes, like the patent leather Oxfords, should be made from waxed round cotton string. They should be thin enough to fit through the small eyelets of the formal Oxford shoes, but strong enough not to break or disintegrate when tied securely.
Another style of laces which is appropriate for lacing dress shoes is waxed flat cotton laces. These are more common for less formal events and used with shoes like the Derbies, wingtips or other styles of less formal brogues. The flat lace also needs to be thin enough to fit through the eyelets of the Derbies snugly and strong enough to withstand secure tying.
The athletic nylon lace is NEVER appropriate to use for lacing and tying dress shoes, as this is only appropriate for tying sneakers or running shoes.
The easiest and least expensive way to refresh a dress shoe is to change the laces. But what colored shoelaces should you select? And at what length?
To select the length is easy, just copy the length of the existing laces. You should know that choosing the appropriate length is essential. Laces that are too short will not properly secure your shoe on your foot. Laces that are too long will interfere with walking and look inappropriate.
When it comes to selecting the color of the laces, you can choose the same as the old ones, but this can be a little boring. To refresh the look of the shoes, choose a color from laces that are closely matched in black or brown that will complement the shoe. Or go wild and pick completely different colorful shoe laces, for example wearing black shoes with dark purple or grey laces, or brown shoes with dark green shoelaces. Today you can find shoelaces in all colors, so you can go crazy and get a few different colored laces and wear them on various occasions.
We have to note here that for lacing the most formal patent leather Oxford dress shoes, you should use silk or polished waxed cotton round laces that are tied into a little bow on top of the shoes. This will give you an exquisite look to match with any tuxedo suit or similar formal outfit.
When wearing a work suit, you can use laces in plain cotton that match the color of the shoe. For more laid-back occasions, the dress shoes can be laced with some more “fun” colored laces.
As an alternative for a dress shoe, a thin flat lace is also appropriate. These will create a bolder and more individual aesthetic and bring some extra personality and character to your traditional styled dress shoes.
Many people don't realize there's a multitude of choices when it comes to tying dress shoes. There are different ways to tie dress shoes, and the correct method depends on the style of the shoe and the occasion you're preparing to attend.
We have mentioned straight-bar lacing and the crisscross as the most common styles of lacing dress shoes. These are among the most common options and tend to be the easiest to complete. However, there are a few more options out there as well that might spice up your look a little!
Over Under Lacing
This style of lacing is rather simple but results in an exciting look on your shoes. It creates a series of X's down the length of your shoes. There might be a couple of X’s or a more extended line depending on the shoes you wear. At the top, you'll tie them in a tight bow as you would normally. Make sure it's tight to ensure it won't come undone!
Vice Versa Lacing
In this style, you get a single line at the top going across the shoe opening, followed by the laces simply moving down vertically into the next holes, followed by another horizontal crossing. It sounds more complicated than it is, so make sure to take a look at some examples to get an idea of how to tie this one correctly!
Aside from these, there are many more options out there that you can try out to see if it suits your unique style! You may want to practice a few of them before selecting a method that fits you best.
Above we've answered the fundamental question: YES, dress shoes need to be tied. While the top knot or two-loop is the standard shoelace knot, the critical aspect that adds to the elegant or laid-back look of the dress shoes is the lacing style. Straight lacing and crisscross lacing are the most common types, but for a less formal look, you can select any other way to lace up your dress shoes.
Don’t forget that high quality shoe laces will also come in a variety of different color options too, which can also be an excellent way to inject a bit of your personality and unique style into your look. That way, you can still enjoy wearing your more formal dress shoes while making them look more contemporary and casual. You can swap out the usual formal laces for something with a splash of complementary color, perhaps to co-ordinate with a tie or shirt you're wearing.
<p>The post Do You Tie Dress Shoes? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How Much Toe Room Should There Be In Dress Shoes? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>The same isn't necessarily true for dress shoes, as they can be made of less-forgiving materials. Because of that, you'll need to be more careful about the shopping process. To help you know what you'll need and what to expect, we're here with some information on how dress shoes should fit and how much toe room in dress shoes you should expect.
Just like when you shop for any other kind of shoe, it's good to have an idea of your proper shoe size. This can help you and any salesperson who helps you to at least be in the ballpark for what the best fit might be. Different brands are likely to have slightly different sizes, so be aware that you may need up to a full size larger or smaller depending on the shoe manufacturer.
It's also wise not to purchase ill-fitting shoes with the expectation that you'll be able to “wear them in” over time. This can lead to getting uncomfortable shoes, which you'll seldom end up wearing. It's much better to buy shoes that feel comfortable, to begin with.
While you may not realize it, your feet can also swell during the day. If you get shoes that fit tightly in the morning, they may become uncomfortable by the end of the day. To remedy that, shop as close to the end of the day as you can, if possible.
As mentioned earlier, there's no making uncomfortable dress shoes fit, no matter how long you force yourself to wear them. Remember, sometimes dress shoes can run bigger than other shoes. It's a far better idea to make sure you get shoes that are already comfortable, helping to ensure you won't have to deal with the discomfort, pain, and blisters of a too small or too big shoe.
Take into consideration how much toe room in shoes you have when you try them on. You want to ensure that your toes don't press up against the front of the shoes at all. If you can feel the front of the shoe with your toes or even toenails, you're going to need something longer.
While this might not seem that important, shoes that aren't long enough will mean that your toes will get squished up in against the shoe when you're walking. That's not going to be comfortable and will leave your toes achy, blistered, or just uncomfortable.
If you have the option, try shoes that are half a size larger. This will likely give you the space you need to be more comfortable. If that isn't an option, you can try out a full size larger if it's a shoe you're very keen on. Just make sure you walk around and that they aren't too big.
Aside from the toe space, several other aspects are essential to keep in mind when you're shopping for new dress shoes. Firstly, make sure you're wearing the kind of socks that you would normally wear to ensure the shoes fit as they would on an everyday basis.
Also, make sure to take into consideration the fit when it comes to the width of the shoe. Just like with the toe space in the shoe, you also shouldn't feel like the shoes fit too tightly on the sides of your feet. They shouldn't be squeezing, pinching, or uncomfortable in any area.If you find that this is the case, but you have plenty of toe room, you may want to consider finding out if there is a wider shoe in the same size and style available. If not, there are brands out there that cater to wider feet that may be worth looking into.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, you don't want too much space on the sides either; this can indicate that the shoe is too big. It can take some time to find something that offers just the right fit, but it's going to be all the more worthwhile when you're wearing them every day.
As a side note, also make sure you have enough space in the heel. Otherwise, you can wind up with uncomfortable rubbing or blisters on your heels. Luckily, if the other areas of the shoe fit well, this area isn't typically a problem. In most cases, going up about half a size can help with situations like this, just like it will with the toe space.
Often, the most important thing to remember is to take your time. Try on plenty of shoes, getting a good idea of the fit of each. Don't let yourself feel rushed into making a decision. Remember that it's most likely your money that's going to be spent on new dress shoes, and it's your feet that will be in them.A good fit can make all the difference, allowing you to look good and feel confident. Don't settle for shoes that aren't entirely comfortable just because they may be a little more stylish.
Overall, finding good dress shoes doesn't need to be an extreme hassle. Just make sure you pay attention to the fit and the way the shoe feels. Don't forget that you may be wearing these shoes for a long time, and you may want to wear them multiple times. It's important that you get footwear that isn't going to become a literal pain.
If you can, set aside a few hours or even a day to be thorough with your shoe shopping. Depending on your feet and the styles you find, you might discover that it doesn't take much time at all, or that you may need more time in order to find your perfect fit.
<p>The post How Much Toe Room Should There Be In Dress Shoes? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How to Remove Scuff Marks from Dress Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>No one likes discovering scuff marks on shoes. Sometimes it can seem as though they'll never come off. Luckily, there are several things you can try to both get rid of those unsightly shoe scuff marks and get your footwear looking like new again, as well as prevent them from happening in the future. Read on to be armed with a variety of solutions for scuff marks no matter where they come from.
Related read: How to Take Care of Dress Shoes
This may sound silly, but an eraser can be a quick and easy way to get rid of scuffed dress shoes. While it's known to work best for suede shoes, it can also be an option for both leather and faux-leather shoes. For this, you can use a pencil eraser or a larger option.
All you need to do is rub the eraser over the mark carefully. Make sure to avoid being too rough, as it can damage the material of the shoe itself. Afterward, you can brush away the eraser bits.
For this option, you may want to buy a cheap toothbrush or use an old one that you can throw away afterward. Place just a small bit of toothpaste onto the brush and use it to scrub the scuff marks. You will need to use a small amount of water to help the paste create a foam.
Continue working in small circles until the shoe scuff marks are gone. Once your shoe is looking like new again, you can wipe the toothpaste off using a damp cloth. Lastly, allow your footwear to dry, and it'll be ready for the next time you need to wear it.
Another option for leather or faux-leather shoes specifically is nail polish remover. Before you get to work, you'll want to make sure that the remover you use is a non-acetone version to avoid doing damage to your dress shoes.
Once you're ready, grab a cotton ball and place some of the nail polish remover onto it. Then rub the cotton ball onto your shoe until the mark has disappeared. When the mark is gone, you can dry the shoe or just set it aside, and it'll be able to dry on its own.
These are typically a product you can easily find in just about any store that carries shoes. They're also something that you can keep with you to use more quickly if future scuffs should happen, as they come in a neat packet.
Just rub the wipe on the scuff mark for as long as needed to get rid of the mark. Often, these can be very helpful in getting rid of those inconvenient marks. If you find it doesn't quite work, don't worry, there are other things you can try out to get your shoes scuff-free again.
If wipes aren't powerful enough or aren't your style, there are other options that you can find in a shoe store. There are sprays and other items that are designed specifically for the materials that your shoes are made from, making them highly efficient.
With a spray option, for example, you can simply spray the product onto your shoe and rub it in using a soft cloth, cleaning away the scuff marks. Just make sure you get the product that will work best for your specific shoes; that way you can get quick and easy results.
Magic Erasers are simply that, magic. With just the addition of water, they can scrub counters, walls, and many more surfaces, leaving them sparkling clean. The same is also true for your shoes as well. To get the best results, this is best used on shoe materials like suede, leather, and canvas.
To get this to work, all you need to do is dampen a magic eraser and wring it out so that it isn't filled with water. Then rub it gently on the scuff marks to remove them. As with the regular eraser, make sure you aren't too rough and keep working until the mark is gone.
Shoe polish can help by covering up the mark more so than erasing it. This can be a good option if you have a mark that just won't scrub away. The most important aspect is to make sure you get the same color as your original shoe material.
Once you have the polish, you can rub it over the scuff mark with a lint-free cloth. Make sure you get it placed evenly over the surface and then wait for it to dry. If you have any polish left, save it for the next time you may need it.
One of the best ways to avoid getting scuff marks is to prevent them. If you can, keep another pair of shoes that you can wear when you're going into an area where scuffs are more likely to occur.
If that isn't an option, then you can find protective products in shoe stores that can help make your shoes less likely to receive scuff marks. These kinds of things can go a long way to keep your shoes safe so that you don't have to worry about fixing scuff marks as often.
Overall, there are several ways that you can prevent, remove, and fix scuffed dress shoes. Because of that, you won't have to worry that your shoes are ruined if you should notice such a mark on them. Many of the methods you can try out even use everyday things you might find in your home.
Otherwise, there are also plenty of products made specifically for your shoes, which you can find at shoe stores all over. From protective products to shoe wipes, sprays, and polishes, there are so many options. So the next time you notice scuffed dress shoes, take a deep breath and remember you have options.
<p>The post How to Remove Scuff Marks from Dress Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post Dress Shoes vs. Loafers | Which Type is Best? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Are you in the market to purchase a new pair of men's dress shoes? Do you feel like you have enough dress shoes to choose from for a variety of outfits? People often tend to overlook what they're wearing on their feet, but this is a mistake.
Your shoes show where you're coming from and where you're going. If you're not wearing the proper attire, it's going to showcase you in a negative way and you may find you're not moving forward with your career.
In order to know what type of dress shoe to buy, you first have to understand the differences between the main types of dress shoes and when it's appropriate to wear which type. It's our goal to help you on your journey to finding the best pair of dress shoes for you and your needs today.
The main topic we will be discussing today is the old debate about which is better: wearing loafers or dress shoes when it comes to professional attire. Now the funny thing about this debate is that loafers are actually a type of dress shoe.
So rather than it be dress shoes vs. loafers, it should be typical types of dress shoes vs. dress shoe loafers. In order to know what makes them similar and different, let’s dive into the idea behind both and see which ones you should purchase.
The most common type of dress shoe that is normally purchased is the Oxford dress shoe. This is the one most men have, as it's known to be classy and casual at the same time.
Oxford shoes are very versatile, able to be matched up with various types of work and formal wear, but they can also be worn for casual outings as well.
These shoes are, in fact, named after the historic Oxford University, and they became very popular around 1800 at that school, and eventually went on to become famous worldwide.
What separates this shoe is that they have been stitched under the vamp. This means that they have closed lacing. This allows the shoe to feel quite slim, as it's a very minimalistic type of shoe.
They come in a variety of shoe colors, and you can buy many men's Oxfords in either leather or suede.
If you want to wear them to work, we recommend either getting them in black, dark brown, or an English tan color.
Dress shoes are known to be perfect to go with a suit, or just a dress shirt, or a blazer, and a pair of slacks, and are great for both social and professional settings.
Most of the time, dress shoes have laces that you can do up according to your comfortable tightness. This is what makes dress shoes seem even more professional and why we believe that they're the most appropriate to wear.
So now for the loafers. What is a loafer and is it really a dress shoe? This type of shoe was created around 1926 for King George VI.
He asked for an expansion of his shoe collection, and he wanted somethings still dressy enough that he could wear in the outdoors. He wanted them to be easy to wear, comfortable and stylish. Thus, men's loafers were created.
These shoes have no set of laces, and you can easily slip them on whenever you want. The moccasin is sort of the “mother” of the loafer, and they range in style from very casual to very dapper, depending on the look you are going for.
As for variety within the loafer family, there's the penny loafer, the Belgian loafer, the tassel loafer, and the Gucci loafer. All are men's slip on shoes with a wide range of features and different designs. They're all stylish but also have a casual edge to them.
Which is better to get—the typical dress shoe or the loafer? We recommend having BOTH! We know that sounds like a cop out, but it's true.
They're both very classy and stylish for a variety of different occasions. The Loafer is much easier to put on and is great for a casual dining experience or out on a date. The Oxford is usually identified as de rigueur for professional office wear, but loafers are now commonly found in this setting as well.
<p>The post Dress Shoes vs. Loafers | Which Type is Best? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post Are Dress Shoes Non Slip? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>A good pair of dress shoes from a quality craftsman will usually always be non-slip. However, the non-slip nature of any given pair of slip resistant dress shoes weighs on several factors. From the interior to the inner sole, the heel design, and the traction of the shoe, there are a lot of factors to keep in mind.
Here we’ll be taking you through each aspect of what makes a pair of non slip dress shoes. Keep these tips in mind, and you can be sure of great value, and a good match to your personal style.
When you look at the non-slip functionality of any dress shoes, you need to look at two things—the traction and non-slip fitment of the inside of the shoe itself. Inadequate shoe traction makes walking on hardened surfaces quite uncomfortable, while a poorly fitting shoe often results in blisters and skin irritation.
If the innersoles of your dress shoes are not of high-quality construction, they'll cause your foot to slip around inside of your shoe. This is extremely taxing on your skin.
The only way to remedy this problem is to wear thick socks, which breaks the uniform, style-conscious lines of a formal or semi-formal outfit. No one wants to have their pant legs reel up, ever-so-slightly, to reveal gaudy, thick winter socks. This, in turn, also creates another problem.
Your feet will sweat excessively when wearing inappropriate socks, in addition to being quite uncomfortable in form-fitting leather, or a faux-leather shoe. The rigid design does not make leeway for bulky socks, nor do most brands make provision for adequate breathability.
Any dress shoes which carry an elevated heel need to have a high-cut heel seat. If the heel seat does not have a high enough cut, then the additional space supplied between the heel and foot, in shoes of a stepped design, could cause your shoes to slip off. This is not a problem when wearing flat shoes, however the higher the heel, the higher the cut of the heel seat and positioning of the top line.
Furthermore, keeping in mind the need to periodically walk in inclement weather, on wet floors, or areas that are more prone to slippage, you must be able to trust your shoes to get you where you need to go without slipping. This aspect will be discussed more in the next section.
Dress shoes can be quite different between men and women. Finding non-slip options for men can often be easier than those for women. This is mainly because the styles can differ substantially. Men usually wear flat shoes, or ones with a minimal heel height while women may prefer to opt for heels, though there are flat, low heel dress shoes available for them as well.
For women who don't mind toning down the heel to achieve a safer non slip office shoes design, there are several great options out there that can work. However, it can get tricky finding heels that fit the same non-slip needs. Typically speaking, the best non-slip options are going to have a thicker heel. That way, padding can be added to the bottom to assist with keeping the shoes from slipping on the ground.
When the heel is raised above the rest of the foot, this creates more of a need for non-slip inner linings as well. Because of that, it's wise to find shoes with excellent inner-traction. That way your foot isn't slipping around and causing problems to the skin.
Next, we're going to provide some useful tips on finding the best non slip dress shoes for many different shoe styles.
An intricate design does not guarantee good traction and non-slip shoe construction. When checking the bottom to determine if you have slip proof shoes, you need to look at numerous factors. Here are some of the top identifying factors to check to see if you have non slip footwear:
The tread on the underside of the shoe's outsole of a shoe needs to carry a pattern which provides it with grip on a slick floor. The best way to ensure this is for the tread to use a design that disperses moisture away from the shoe's underside. An interlocked geometrical pattern that allows for the escape of water (not enclosed) is generally a guarantee the best shoe traction. A good tread pattern will also grant the most surface contact with the tread itself.
A great way to test the traction of a pair of shoes, once you have them before you, is to pour some soapy water or an oily substance onto a hard surface. Most poorly manufactured shoes will not pass this test. Dress shoes with good traction will present you with no trouble walking on even wet, hard surfaces.
Another key characteristic to keep in mind when analyzing the traction of a prospective new pair of footwear is what method is used to affix the sole to the shoe.
Welted and other forms of stitching usually indicate higher quality, and thus a longer-lasting shoe, however, this generally comes at a higher cost. Most manufacturers who have taken the extra steps of stitching their soles and shoe together will typically have ensured that the under sole has good traction as well.
They can also be eventually resoled if need be, which is not possible with cemented shoes. This is not to say that shoes which are cemented, or held together with adhesive, are not a good choice. The price is often far lower than their counterparts, while the traction can be, at times, superior.
The soles of any non-slip shoes need to be specifically designed to be non-slip, and this counts for both the under sole’s traction and the non-slip nature of the inner design. The insoles of most dress shoes are removable, which can create quite an uncomfortable obstacle if the shoes are not form-fitting.
Dress shoes need to carry a snug fit, with both the toe section and wider area towards the heel having to match the contours of your foot. With too much “wiggle room,” the friction results in uncomfortable complications.
Pay attention to the support around your ankles. If your dress shoes are not rigid enough around the heel and ankles, this will cause sweating and irritation, while also ruining the overall streamlined visual appeal of the shoes themselves. You need to choose a pair which gives firm support to your heel and ankle, while never being rigid enough to indent the skin or affect your movement.
If your insoles are removable, then be sure that they fit snugly back into place or you could end up causing yourself a great deal of discomfort. Insoles can often wear down over time, contorting and no longer holding their position within your shoe.
Should this occur, it would be best to replace them with orthopedic shoe insoles. Orthopedic arch supports and heel pads are also available for those times when you have the perfect fit, except for in select places.
At times, you'll find shoes where it's clearly stated that they're slip-resistant, while they carry poor to negligible slip resistance, if any at all. Merely saying they're “slip-resistant” is highly ambiguous. It makes no definite statement as to how slip resistant the dress shoes are.
Always take the extra time to evaluate the tread, fitment, shape, and additional factors such as how secure the heel cap is, as well as how high the heel seat is cut, to ensure the best possible comfort and realistic non-slip design.
It can be easy to forget all the aspects of our shoes that can make or break the level of comfort we have in them. This is especially true with dress shoes because there's often such keen attention paid to the shoes style rather than the level of functionality they have to offer.
While you're shopping for dress shoes, make sure you check both the inner and outer portions for good non-slip quality. Using the tips you have received here, you'll now know how to find shoes with non-slip soles and inners both for the bottom of your feet and the bottom of the shoe as you walk. Once you've found the perfect pair of shoes, you'll be able to look good and feel confident in them.
<p>The post Are Dress Shoes Non Slip? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post Are Dress Shoes Supposed to be Long? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Are your dress shoes too long or too short is something that depends upon a range of factors; however, no matter which dress shoes you choose, your toes must never touch the tips of your shoes. The choice of which shoe length is best for you is something that can be simplified if you keep a couple of essential considerations in mind.
It’s not the length of the shoe that is the most critical consideration. Instead, it’s about the overall size and fit. One of the many reasons why dress shoes have a bad reputation for being uncomfortable, pinching toes and creating sore heels, isn’t because they're either too long or too short, but because overall, they're ill-fitting.
While it’s a well-known fact that a good leather dress shoe does indeed need to be broken in to a certain extent, in the end, they should fit so well that you barely notice you're wearing them. It will come as little surprise then that one of the very reasons why men suffer so much with their shoe size length is because 80% of them are wearing the wrong size.
Here we’ll be taking you through the importance of how to determine shoe size, how the shape of your foot affects shoe choice, factors influencing and influenced by the selection of your heel, and how to ensure that you get the best length of dress shoes for both style and comfort.
Again, under no circumstances should your toes press or bunch-up against the tip of your dress shoes. If this is happening, then the size is wrong, and the shoes are too short for your feet. Dress shoes need to fit comfortably the first time you try them on. As with all shoes, there's usually a small amount of initial break-in time; however, the difference in size will be negligible from your starting fitment due to the design of dress shoes themselves. This is even more pertinent when opting for all-leather footwear, or a pair of dress shoes using a leather heel inlay.
The length might well be a significant consideration when it comes to a more flexible, active style shoe like a sneaker or a training shoe that are meant to have more movement inside them. However, for a dress shoe, you want them to fit exceptionally well — not snug as such, but a close and comfortable fit.
One of the reasons for this is because a dress shoe will eventually mold itself to its owner, complying with your foot size. If you get anything too long, then that process won’t be able to handle this organically. Worse still, if your shoe is too long, over time, you'll be able to see that as the leather cracks and creases, it highlights the fact that you're wearing ill-fitting shoes.
You'll notice a distinct trend between most major shoes. Some are designed specifically for elongated, narrow feet, while others grant greater width allowing comfort for those of us with shorter feet. If your toes touch anywhere, walking will be uncomfortable. If this is the case, go half a size up or opt for a different brand or product range entirely.
Finding your correct dress shoe size is a far more important consideration than its length. By that, we don’t mean just the width either. Proper dress shoe sizing is established by looking at three separate measurements: overall length from heel to toe, the width of your foot, and additionally your arch length.
That’s the measurement from your heel to your ball. In a dress shoe, that's an essential consideration because, by nature, it's designed to flex at the ball. If you omit this measurement and only focus on length, you'll be left with a very uncomfortable experience and perhaps even some damage both to your foot and to your shoes.
If you're at all concerned about getting any of these measurements correct, then you could use something called a Brannock device. This is by far the most accurate way of taking all three of these essential measurements. It looks like some form of caliper like contraption, but it very accurately gives you a great read and indication of the shoe size that is going to suit you best. So remember, dress shoes, first and foremost, are meant to fit you like a second skin, mold to your shape over time, and be both comfortable and elegant. (Printable Brannock device)
The higher the heel and the more tapered the shape, the more important it is to choose a pair of shoes which leaves you enough movement for your heels and toes. It's only in the case of flat shoes, where no amount of play should be possible. The more tapered the heel, the wider the gap between your foot and the heel seat, therefore a higher heal cut will also be needed.
The instep has a significant effect on shoe fitment, with the instep being determined by the shape of your foot. You will find that the length of your shoe, its waist area, and its arch are all relative to the dimensions set out by the length and breadth of your instep. Stay aware of the shape of the form of your instep to have a good idea of what size and shape you need when shopping for new dress shoes.
The width of your heel seat and shape of the instep determine the waist of your shoe. This is the area directly behind the ball flex point of your foot and is supported by your insole. The waist (the narrow part of footwear that connects the heel and the wide part of the sole) area needs to carry the weight of the lateral sides of your foot comfortably. Pick a shoe that is too narrow, and your weight is distributed wrong, too wide, and chafing can occur.
The arch fit refers to the support for your heel arch and the support provided by the insole of the heel seat. As before-mentioned, this gap is determined by the height of your heel. Too much room and your shoe will be prone to slipping off.
Any dress shoe which has specifically provided additional support for the heel arch will suit those with flat feet better. You'll typically find that these shoes are shorter than other varieties. The shorter length and broader base allow for better pressure distribution. The need for an elongated width becomes even more important when you're a heavy set person.
Wide shoes, which are typically shorter shoes with a broader toe, are the best for both flat-footed individuals and those of heftier weights. Be sure to check the shank, or waist, of your shoe for heel arch support. In most cases, these shoes will be in a style best suited for you.
Just as is the case with the shape and form of your foot determining whether you need a longer or shorter shoe, you'll also find that certain shapes of shoes are better suited to different types of feet. Those with wider feed will prefer the open lacing, short structure of the Derby style, whereas those with long, large feet will have better wear from a double-buckled monk shoe as this gives more even pressure distribution.
For anyone struggling to find a snug heel fit, give any formal shoe sporting a strap a try, while functional straps are preferred due to allowing complete control over the tension. Those with narrow feet, as well as those with a low instep, will find the best fit from a closed lace shoe, such as an Oxford, or slip-on dress shoes such as loafers.
Your dress shoes need to fit comfortably while fitting the form of your feet snuggly. This is the most essential prerequisite to shoe length, with the length varying according to the before-mentioned fitment factors. As a general rule of thumb, make sure there's a maximum gap of ½-inch between your toes and the tips of your shoes. While the gap between your heel and heel seat should be half of a finger-width.
There's no harm in going half-a-size up. By midway through the day, your feet begin to swell at a rate which increases towards the late afternoon. This makes it extremely important to choose a shoe which doesn't fit too tightly.
Don’t select a shoe based on aesthetics alone. Picking one whether you like the look of a longer dress shoe or a shorter one, can leave you open to a considerable amount of discomfort. The length of your footwear will be set out by the style that you choose and the exact design of your choice. However, keep our tips in mind, and you'll prevent yourself a great deal of pain while being able to filter the best individual dress shoe styles for your unique needs with ease.
<p>The post Are Dress Shoes Supposed to be Long? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How Should Dress Shoes Fit in the Heel? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>While searching for the perfect pair of dress shoes, many find themselves faced with a range of variables. From how long a dress shoe must be, to the best traction pattern, lace up shoe choices, the boldness of the brogueing, countless questions arise. Few priorities are as important when choosing a comfortable pair of dress shoes, as to how dress shoes should fit in the heel.
One needs a balance of secure fitment and comfort, yet finding this balance can sometimes prove quite challenging. Here we’ll be guiding you through how to choose the best fitting dress shoe relative to the fitment of the heel. Choose right, and comfort is guaranteed, while your foot will also never slip around, causing you potential blisters, chafing, and skin irritation.
The heel of your dress shoes should always leave a bit of space, but not as much as sneakers. Seams or stitching against the heel should be avoided, while the heel itself is something that will never need to be broken in. If there's any design element which looks as if it may rub against your heel, then avoid those shoes altogether.
This is important because those additions can cause a lot of problems as you wear the shoes. In just a few short hours, you can experience discomfort that can lead to blisters and even bleeding, and nobody wants that. Instead, it's better to relinquish that extra bit of fancy design for something that will be more comfortable to wear for the long term.
The primary consideration when buying a pair of shoes, especially when buying online, is to determine whether the size given is a match to your shoe size. Without first determining if your new prospective dress shoes run large, small, or are a perfect fit, you can’t correctly assess the fit of the heel. A good match in terms of shoe size gives you a high chance of getting a heel fit that is both secure and comfortable.
Keep in mind that every pair of shoes will stretch, even if slightly. Therefore, your dress shoes should fit tightly at first, giving little room to move. Over a few days, or with the help of a shoe stretcher, they will adjust to fit more comfortably. Leather has very little room for flexibility and stretching; thus, leather shoes should always be as close a match to your exact size as possible.
Make sure you don't rely on them stretching too much. While in some cases, you may be able to get shoes that are slightly tight and have them wear into a more relaxed state. Don't, however, get shoes that are highly uncomfortable to wear, expecting them to stretch out enough to become comfortable. It's more important to get the right size than to try to make a smaller size work.
Dress socks are typically very thin, which makes a high-quality, comfortable footwear lining and interior very important. The lining will be greatest felt around your heel, with many dress shoes opting for a leather inset or padding instead. Any stitching towards the heel needs to be folded and flush. The last thing that you want is anything which could be abrasive in this area. Genuine leather lined shoes, or at the very least, a leather inlay, is highly recommended.
Concerning the lining and overall material of the shoe, it's also a good idea to have something more breathable. That way, your feet will be less likely to get hot and sweaty, which can lead to embarrassing odors. Finding something that will let in more air can ensure you stay comfortable, ensuring you won't have to worry about your feet overheating.
Always pay attention to the angle the heel’s angle of incline, and ensure that it matches the natural contours of your foot. Many top dress shoe brands even supply orthopedically sound arch support, including special padded insoles, to ensure a comfortable fit over an extended period.
If your dress shoes have made no provision to support both your heel and arch, then your shoes may become uncomfortable to wear. This is especially true for people with flat feet. Outward appeal means very little if your shoes cause you is constant pain and irritation.
Do keep in mind that if the shoes themselves don't have support within themselves, you can opt to get insoles that you can add into them for arch support. Depending on the kind of dress shoe you get, you may want to choose something less outwardly noticeable. Otherwise, focus on what will make you the most comfortable.
Any dress shoes which use a stiffener need to be given careful consideration. The heel seat of shoes with a reinforcement needs to be wide enough to allow your foot enough range of motion, without being so wide that the shoe can slip off. Also, a heel seat which is too wide can cause one to “claw” their toes in a subconscious attempt to keep the shoe from falling off. This needs to be avoided.
Many inexpensive shoes make use of a very soft flexible back, which makes a form-fitting shoe size even more important. Firm heels that do not use a stiffener, as is the case with those of genuine leather composition, are the best. They help you control the motion of your heel while minimizing the risk of shoe slippage and ankle strain.
The overall idea is to ensure you have enough space to be comfortable without feeling like the shoe is going to fall off. You may also find that heel support that is firmer, rather than stiffened, is going to be less likely to rub on that area of your foot.
The shape of your foot largely determines the best shape for the heel seat. In general, a heel seat which is too narrow will put excess pressure on the Achilles tendon. This forces your foot outwards, causing stress in the area of your toes. The width of a heel seat is also significant. If you buy a pair of shoes which are elongated but narrow, then the heel seat may not be wide enough for a comfortable fit.
While many people choose the appearance of the shoe over the comfort level, it's exceedingly important to understand that the fit of your shoe is about more than just comfort. Shoes that don't fit well are wrong for your body and can result in more pain or sometimes even damage to your feet. Because of that, it's not a good idea to try to “tough it out” when it comes to your shoes.
Possible Heel Cap Issues
Many people struggle with nothing other than discomfort as a result of a poor-fitting heel cap. In most cases, this is due to individual concerns regarding the shape of the wearer’s foot. Fortunately, any discomfort arising from poor heel cap fitment can usually be resolved by using orthopedic insoles, arch supports, or heel pads.
Each of these three products is great when used in conjunction with dress shoes featuring removable insoles, although this is not critical. Orthopedic gel inserts work wonderfully; ensure that you get one that is a slim-line design so that you don’t run into any sizing issues.
Products like these can be essential to ensure the health of your feet. While they may come at an extra cost, you'll find you won't end up having to endure any foot pain. Don't be afraid to look into these additions if your shoes aren't entirely comfortable as they are.
One area which is commonly overlooked is the topline. The topline refers to the region of the heel which is exposed at the top. As mentioned before, any stitching in the heel area needs to be of paramount quality with no obtrusion causing resistance in the movement of your heel.
Just as with the rest of your heel, the topline should never carry any exposed stitching or material joins of any form. The topline needs to fit the form around your heel, onto the dorsum of the foot, without any excessive gaping.
Low-heeled shoes need a slight amount of play, or heal-to-toe action, whereas flat shoes should have no room for motion. Low-heeled shoes need a small gap with a topline that hugs your foot.
Overall, the proper fit of the heel on your dress shoes is essential. You'll want to make sure that you're getting the best foot shaped shoes and support you need to stay comfortable and keep your feet from suffering. Make sure to check each of these areas to make sure the shoes you're interested in offer the most possible support for your feet. Finally, if necessary, don't be afraid to get add-on products such as insoles for dress shoes, to make yourself even more comfortable.
<p>The post How Should Dress Shoes Fit in the Heel? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How to Repair the Sole of a Dress Shoe first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>When it comes to dress shoes, no one wants to see them falling apart after a long day at work or a night on the dance floor. Regardless of the price you might have paid for them, even some ultra-expensive dress shoes can come apart after a bit of constant use.
However, instead of purchasing a new pair, or paying a hefty price to the shoemaker for repairing them, it might come in handy if you could just perform the shoe sole repair yourself. Especially if it's the rubber sole which has come apart, you can do it – even without prior knowledge – in a very short amount of time.
It might only be a temporary shoe repair, but when you need to wear the same pair of dress shoes for an office meeting or other important function again in the near future, this DIY shoe repair can come in handy.
Want to know HOW? Have a look at the following guide.
For repairing the sole of a dress shoe, all you need is some glue and a broken sole. When purchasing glue for this purpose, you should consider buying shoe sole glue for achieving the best possible adhesion results. Even though it might be a bit more expensive as compared to other types of glue, it's worth the money to do this dress shoe repair properly.
Once you’ve purchased a suitable shoe glue, open it up by piercing a hole through its bottle with the help of a pin (often built into the tube's cap) or nail. Make sure that you’ve created a large enough hole to allow this viscous material to come out without any hindrance.
Afterward, apply the glue over the broken sole. You should only glue that part of the sole which is coming apart from the shoe’s bottom. However, if the entire sole has come apart, you should apply a considerable quantity of glue all over the shoe sole.
Make sure that the shoes rubber sole is completely covered with glue in order to make solid contact with the bottom of the shoe. However, if you aren’t sure about the perfect quantity of glue that should be applied, go online to the shoe’s manufacturer site to see what they recommend.
Now hold the sole and shoe together for a considerable duration of time. Keep them in this position as long as the glue isn’t fully set. At this point, you should make sure that your fingers stay away from the glued part or otherwise, it could negatively affect the outcome of this particular method, and you might have to do it all over again.
After the sole is sealed correctly (usual glue curing time is 24 hrs.), you can start wearing these shoes without any issues. However, if there is still some part of the sole which lacks proper contact with the shoe’s bottom, you'll need to add more glue to areas that were missed.
Apart from using this re-glue shoe soles repair technique on dress shoes, you can also apply it to other types of footwear. Even though it may only be a temporary fix, it's still much better than having to purchase a new pair of dress shoes.
There are very few things which are more frustrating than having to deal with a broken pair of dress shoes. Especially at the start of the day, when you’re preparing for the office, a broken sole can ruin your mood. At that time, there's no way you can visit your nearby retail store or a professional shoe cobbler to get it fixed.
However, this is where the above shoe repair tips come in handy. When it requires nothing more than shoe glue, which can be found in most chain department stores, the fact that it takes no more than 10 minutes to repair and 24 hrs to cure makes it a cheap shoe repair for any favorite pair of shoes.
So next time your shoe soles come apart, try applying the above shoe repair tips. Apart from saving you time from having to shop for new shoes and maybe spending money that you weren't planning on spending, it will feel good to fix your shoes with your own hands.
<p>The post How to Repair the Sole of a Dress Shoe first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post Benefits of Leather Sole Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>A good pair of shoes is one of the most important things you need every day. It’s essential to know you'll be comfortable while walking, regardless of the task or event. While many dress shoes are leather made, we wondered about the soles. When buying dress shoes people often ask "Are leather soled shoes better?"
Shoe soles are made out of many materials, depending on their purpose and type. Athletic shoes tend to have a different bottom than casual or dress shoes. You'll find that some shoe sole materials work better than others, but it’s possible to find polyurethane, latex, rubber, leather, blends, and more.
The benefits of leather soled shoes are plentiful. If you’re not sure why you need leather soles, we'll explain the many reasons to help you. Of course, it’s also essential to learn about the other dress shoe materials available and how to make sure the soles are leather.
Before the mid-20th century, people’s shoes were always made of leather. As technology advanced, shoemakers came to realize that other materials were cheaper and easier to manufacture.
Of course, the earliest leather shoes were just strips of animal hide wrapped around the feet and tied in an assortment of ways. With time, the shoe shape was born. Most people prefer the upper of the shoe to be made of the same material as the sole to create continuity.
The first rubber versions date back to the 1870s. Elite and wealthy people tended to use them for games of croquet because it didn’t do as much damage to the green. In the 1890s, Goodyear (USA) also started producing shoes with rubber soles.
It wasn’t until the 1960s that plastic and rubber soles slowly began to replace traditional leather. These materials eventually became the most-used products for shoe bottoms. As such, manufacturers also started doing away with the leather upper because there were alternative, often less expensive options available.
Since they were so cheap, they became highly popular. However, leather shoes are still essential for the industry and are now back on the rise. Primarily, people have come to appreciate that leather increases the quality of the footwear.
Now that you have a bit of history about leather soles and why they're coming back in style, it’s time to focus on their benefits. Of course, we’ll also talk a bit about when not to use leather, including a few drawbacks, so that you’re fully aware of all aspects of the topic.
When you have leather soled dress shoes, you may find they feel stiff on the feet. This is normal because for the material to hold its shape longer, it undergoes the process of curing. Nonetheless, as you continue to wear them, they become more flexible.
In a sense, the bottom molds to the unique contours of your feet. It can take up to a month, but once the soles have been broken in, you'll get a more customized fit. That gives you better traction on smooth and wet surfaces.
The more you wear the shoe, the more it will adapt to your foot’s form. Stick with the initial brief discomfort until they feel as comfortable as it would be to walk barefoot or in memory foam. It will happen!
While you wouldn’t think that leather is a breathable material, it is. Think about the animal from which the leather came. Air penetrated the creature to help keep the skin healthy and alive.
The same applies to your feet. When you wear leather shoes, your feet can still breathe. If you sweat often, you may find that your feet won’t feel as uncomfortable or wet throughout the day.
Rubber soles tend to heat up faster than leather, which means your shoes get warmer, especially when they’re on your feet eight to 10 hours a day. Your feet are going to feel a lot cooler and more comfortable regardless of what you’re doing when you wear leather.
Similarly, leather-soled shoes are also suitable for dry and warm climates. You may not feel the heat as much or have to deal with hot, achy, or itchy feet at the end of the day.
Since the leather sole is more breathable than other materials, you may find that your feet don’t develop infections caused by sweat or dampness. These include athlete’s foot and other unwelcome fungal diseases.
Odor-causing bacteria prefer damp, dark places. Sweaty feet are the perfect environment for them to breed, but you won’t have to worry about it because your feet stay dry.
Many people believe that leather-soled shoes are more hygienic than other shoe sole materials. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about embarrassing fungal infections and smells.
While you don’t want to feel like you’re slipping and sliding, some people like the feeling of effortless walking. Your soles won’t stick to the floor, which means you’ll feel lighter. If you’re a dancer, you might like that feeling of gliding.
Most people believe that rubber and plastic soles can insulate you from making firm contact with the earth through the shoes or feet. If you feel this way, you might like to consider leather soles because they have a grounding effect.
Leather is also an insulator, but if your feet sweat or the sole gets wet, you get contact between the earth and the feet. To get the full effect, though, the shoes need to be worn and have absorbed moisture.
Grounding provides you with many benefits. You’re going to sleep better, reduce any stress, and become more focused.
Leather shoes tend to look a lot better than rubber and other materials. They’re elegant and have a luxury feel about them. The same applies to the sole.
The material used usually determines their quality, and leather is the utmost of quality. Such soles can deliver the appearance of fine lines, a bottom that perfectly matches the upper, and the sleek design of the shoe.
In most cases, cobblers use extra layers of the material to craft a single sole, which means you have more durability and a stronger bottom. Most artisans use triple layers of leather, which can outlast any other material. It’s best to make sure your shoe sole uses multiple leather layers for you to get better quality and a more comfortable shoe.
Rubber soles tend to crack without reason or cause. It can happen if the rubber gets too dry, which is a possibility if you leave the shoes in a sunny spot or next to the radiator or vent. Once cracks start to happen, they’re going to spread and won’t stop.
Leather is much different because it can absorb water through a busted seam or tiny crack. When that happens, you let it dry, and it compresses and retakes its original form. You get more longevity from the shoe as a result.
If you’re like most people, the thought of saving money makes you intrigued instantly. It’s in our nature to want to spend as little as possible to get what we want.
Yes, leather shoes with the same sole material often cost more to begin with, but they can be re-soled and repaired. Of course, high-quality products are designed well enough to give you many years of comfort without appearances failing.
Leather shoes tend to look better and better as time goes on, but the sole is going to get damaged with time. It’s usually easy to find a reputable cobbler who can re-sole your shoes at a reasonable price. It will cost less than what it would be to replace the footwear, and you’ll get many more years of use with the new sole.
Almost everything can be recycled nowadays; rubber and synthetic materials usually aren’t. When the shoe fails, it inevitably goes into the trash can, which, in turn, goes into the landfill.
Since you can repair and re-sole leather shoes, it keeps them out of the landfill for a more extended period. When you do have to throw them out, leather is biodegradable and natural. It will disintegrate and become part of the earth once more, though the process does take time.
If you purchase a quality dress shoe, you’re likely to hear an audible click sound when you walk on concrete, tile, and other hard surfaces. It’s a pleasing sound, and many people like it compared to the squeak of rubber soles.
Many times, rubber can leave ghastly black marks across the floor. It’s possible to remove these markings, but it isn’t easy to do so. Some synthetic materials can also leave divots in some flooring, such as wood.
You’ll never have to worry about leather-soled shoes marring any surface. Just take them out of their box and wear them on tile, laminate, stone, wood, and other flooring styles without fear of marking floors.
Leather-soled shoes are also lighter than those with rubber bottoms. The sleek and slim design of a stacked leather sole allows it to have better performance than thick rubber. You also get a better feel overall.
Quality shoes should be lightweight so that you can wear them for extended periods without tiring the legs or putting stress on the knees. You might not feel as though you're walking on air, but you’ll feel a bit lighter. If you don’t believe us, consider wearing heavy or steel-toed boots for a few minutes, and you’ll notice the difference.

While leather soles are impressive and can do many things, they aren’t suitable in some situations. For example, you need bottoms with a grip when you’re performing exercises, such as running or walking. Plus, you need extra support in the feet that leather usually doesn’t provide.
You can wear leather-soled shoes for office wear, to the grocery and department stores, and anywhere else with a smooth surface. Nevertheless, be cautious when walking as some leather soles are slick on various flooring styles. Take small steps and test your weight before walking in a full stride.
Since leather soaks up water, it’s usually not a good idea to wear them in the snow and rain. If it’s just a sprinkle and the walkway is damp, it might not be an issue. If there are puddles of water, though, it’s likely your socks will get soaked.
Of course, leather will dry and go back to its original shape, but too much water can break down the sole prematurely. You can fix this problem easily by wearing overshoes or rain boots when outside. Take your expensive shoes with you and change at work.
It's important to understand that thinner soles (fewer layers) will equate to fragile footwear. You can go through the top brands of shoes within months if you don’t have triple-layer bottoms.
While more about appearances than anything else, the sole has to be cut tight to fit the upper snugly. Otherwise, it looks out of place and messy. If you’re going to spend top dollar for leather shoes or soles, you want them to look elegant and formal.
We didn’t feel this feature was a pro or a con, but rather, it was a fact. You can coat the leather sole with a thin bit of rubber. While some people believe this to be a blasphemy that negates the advantages of leather soles, we don’t feel the same.
The insulating coating is thin and doesn’t really affect the sole at all. Plus, it adds a touch of slip resistance to an otherwise slippery bottom. If you consider this option, make sure you wear your shoes in for a good three weeks before applying the rubber coating for best results.
It’s important to know what you’re buying as a consumer. You need to ensure you pick footwear that's comfortable, safe, and appropriate for the occasion. When you’re looking at leather shoes, it’s essential to consider the bottoms.
You’ll find many leather sole dress shoe benefits, which can help you make an informed decision. Knowing why they’re beneficial, when to wear them, and what kind of drawbacks you’re likely to experience can help you ensure you'll wear them correctly. We hope you now pay closer attention to the product descriptions to make sure your high quality leather shoes use the same material for the sole.
<p>The post Benefits of Leather Sole Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How to Stretch Dress Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>We’ve all been there, men and women, who just had to have a particularly fashionable pair of shoes, but not so concerned as to whether they're shoes that fit properly or not. Or maybe knowing they're a bit on the snug side, but still wanting to have them.
They’re a limited edition, and now suddenly they’re on sale. You can’t let them go to anyone else, even if they are half a size too small! Your two sensible options are, take them back and get a refund, or swap them for footwear that fits properly.
Alternatively, you could grin and bear it, bring them out for special occasions only, and ensure there won't be any walking, or standing, or pretty much any activity that might involve you placing your feet on the ground involved! Or you could consider a few tried and tested techniques on how to stretch your shoes from industry experts that could give your new dress shoes the gentle stretch they need to make them alright to wear.
We’ve already covered off many shoe stretching techniques, and perhaps the potato over-night in the shoe isn’t for you? Nor do you like the idea of filling your expensive new leather shoes with oats either.
You’ve been painfully walking around with blisters all week, and merely the sight of your new dress shoes is starting to make you feel ill. How will they be ready to wear in time for that wedding at the end of the week? Will you be able to stretch your shoes out? If you’ve spent a lot of money on the perfect pair, it can be very annoying if they feel too tight. There are a few different options that can be used to help you stretch leather shoes.
Poorly fitting shoes will rub against your skin, causing painful blisters and, in extreme cases, resulting in you developing corns and blisters. Wearing ill fitted shoes is very bad for your feet. Your feet work very hard for you, so they deserve to be looked after.
Stretching out your dress shoes will result in a permanent alteration to their shape. If they're just a little too tight and the end is in sight, then you should carry on breaking in your shoes, rather than stretching them, as painful as this may be.
In the end, your shoe should mold to your foot and be more comfortable to wear, but perhaps you have chosen a style that doesn't fit your foot shape properly. You can make your new dress shoes more comfortable by stretching out the leather. How do you do this?
One of the most popular methods of how to stretch leather shoes is to apply heat to them directly while wearing them with thick socks. This can speed up the stretching process. Many who try this method use a hairdryer to create the heat. This added heat can help the material to loosen up more quickly than it would otherwise.
Make sure to use a medium heat level and only direct it at your shoe for about 30 seconds at a time to avoid causing damage. If you find that certain areas fit more tightly than others, you can focus more of the heat on those places.
While you're wearing them, you should move your feet around for a minute or so. Try to bend your foot and the shoe. Leave them to cool a little and then repeat this process.
It may take a few tries to get your shoes into the shape you want, so be patient and careful. Don't try to apply too much heat for too long as it can result in a ruined pair of shoes. Take your time, use only small amounts of heat at a time, and do plenty of wiggling until they feel more comfortable.
Cedarwood shoe stretchers are widely available online but are not the cheapest item to purchase. If you frequently need to stretch out your shoes, particularly if you have broad feet, then you may want to think about investing in this specialist, shoe stretching tool.
Shoe stretching devices are foot-shaped and placed into the shoe in the same way a foot would. They're left in the shoe overnight and will stretch your shoe. Some shoe stretchers have separate parts for stretching out the toe area. Less traditionally, you may choose to insert other objects into your dress shoes to stretch them out.
Make sure not to use anything in the shoe that's pointed or oddly shaped, as this can result in the shoe stretching in some odd ways. If you can, use a standard cedarwood shoe stretcher, which is the next best option to wearing them around yourself until they've stretched out.
Yes, a potato. Stuff it into your shoe and leave it overnight. A potato will absorb bad odors, and it's strong enough to be stuffed into the shoe. While this may sound like a ridiculous idea, it's actually quite intelligent as well as economical.
Potatoes are an inexpensive solution; however, not usually as effective as conventional shoe stretchers.
If you try out this option, make sure it's a potato that doesn't have any bruises, cuts or other issues. This can result in a mess in your shoes when you go to remove it, and nobody wants a moldy potato in their footwear!
To stretch out their boots, cowboys would fill them with oats and then some water. The oats would swell up and stretch out their boots. This is a very quirky method. If your budget is super tight, but you're looking for a way to stretch your shoes and happen to have some oats in your pantry, then go ahead.
Do remember that this is a messy process. As much as you might like the unique idea of stretching your shoe by using oats, remember it will be a massive waste of time and effort if you don't use enough.
It's generally a better idea to use a more standard method or take your time to find a pair of cowboy boots that fit correctly, to begin with. This may make the shopping process a little longer, but your feet will thank you when they're not covered in blisters.
Plump bags of water can be nestled into your shoes and then placed in the freezer. The ice will expand overnight, and your shoes will be stretched out.
However, the leather may be damaged, so you might need to apply something to the leather afterward. You can use a leather oil, leather conditioner, saddle soap, or polish to your shoes after they've stretched.
This also isn't a highly recommended method, but of course, the choice is up to you. It's typically a better option to wear the shoes and try to stretch them out yourself for short periods throughout the day. It might take more time, but at least they'll have a much lower chance of being ruined.
An Australian bride desperately needed to stretch wedding shoes before her special day. Craftily, she made her own shoe stretchers. She used foot-shaped water bottles filled with water and covered with cloth. She placed these in her shoes and left them for a few days. Presto! Stretched shoes!
This is an unusual option, but it's not impossible to apply. Like any of the less conventional methods out there, make sure to be careful not to place too much pressure on the shoes and give them plenty of time to stretch out well.
You can make a mix of rubbing alcohol and water. Spray this inside your shoe and rub it onto the inside leather. Pop on some socks and wear the shoes immediately. The alcohol and water mix will help to soften the leather of your dress shoe and help them to mold to your feet.
This could be used as an option to use in a pinch. Generally speaking, the quicker methods stand more of a chance of stretching the shoes out too much or causing damage to the shoes themselves. If you have the time, it's far better to stretch them out yourself.
No, not all your cutlery can be used to stretch your shoes, but you can use a soup spoon. The semi-circular cup of the spoon imitates the shape of your foot. You can press the spoon into areas of the shoe that are hurting you. You can insert the spoon into the shoe and press it down so that the end presses into the leather.
When you're not wearing them, you can stretch out shoes by stuffing them with balls of newspaper or socks. This will help your shoes to adjust to the shape of the papers and socks and applies pressure without heat. The longer you leave them, the more your shoe will stretch. Don’t forget that your shoes are made of leather and that you can't undo stretching! It will be permanent.
Because of that, it's often the best option to try to stretch out your shoes with your own feet. That way, they'll stretch to fit the shape of your actual feet rather than some object that may not be exactly the correct shape.
The four most sensible, tried and tested techniques that should work without causing any lasting damage are stretching with ice, using a bottle, using heat from your own feet, and trying out a wooden shoe stretcher. Each has proven to be successful on many occasions, but each, of course, does still come with its precautions.
If you're stretching with ice, you must make sure that your bags are watertight. The bags need to be durable as you don’t want any water to leak, and it’s best to pad out the front and toe area only. Pop the bags of water securely inside the toes, into your refrigerator and leave them overnight.
The bottle trick is also a neat and handy one to try out at home if you want just a gentle stretch. Find some bottles that are roughly foot-shaped and wrapped with soft cloths, then gently push these into the shoes and leave overnight. You won’t get a dramatic change to the overall shape of your shoe, but this should provide just that extra little bit of give you need.
As we’ve already established, your shoes will most likely give with time, so be patient, wear them in regularly just around the house, and you'll be surprised how much this can help to loosen up the leather. Five minutes here, 10 minutes there and you have soon clocked up plenty of extra wear time without a blister in sight.
If it’s both length and width that you need to eek a bit of extra room out of, then a shoe stretcher really could be just the thing you need. Place one in each shoe, give them a couple of extra twists and presto, you should be able to create that extra bit of wriggle room you were looking for!
So there you have it, some extra insider secrets on what are the most effective ways to help stretch out your shoes.
There are several methods that you can use to stretch your dress shoes. Wearing shoes that are not comfortable is one of the worst feelings ever. Your toes may be pinching, the heel of the shoe may be rubbing your heel raw, or the shoe may be far too tight for you.
If you're thinking of stretching your dress shoes, you may consider going to see a professional cobbler. Although there are many home products and methods you could use to stretch shoes yourself, there are also things that can go wrong.
It's recommended that you seek professional advice or shop online for special shoe stretchers that you'll be able to use over and over again. Your beautiful dress shoes need to fit you perfectly. If you've tried and failed to break them in traditionally, then it may be time to do some professional shoe stretching. Be your own cobbler and learn to stretch your dress shoes like a pro.
<p>The post How to Stretch Dress Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post What Are Dress Shoes Made From? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>A pair of men's dress shoes is a staple for any man’s wardrobe. It’s not just a luxury but an absolute necessity.
After all, your go-to footwear for events requires you to suit up and look more presentable than usual.
However, we understand why not everyone is too keen to buy a pair since a quality dress shoe can often cost more than other forms or footwear.
That’s because these shoes require a level of craftsmanship and quality.
What are men's dress shoes made from, anyway? How are they constructed, and what makes them so special?
Let's learn more about them for you to make the right decisions when purchasing a pair.
In a nutshell, dress shoes are pieces of footwear specifically designed for professional, formal, and other special events, especially those requiring a suit.
There are different types of dress shoes, but Oxfords and dress boots are the most common shoe styles.
Before we move on to the materials that dress shoes are made from, it’s ideal to get familiar with its construction first.
Dress shoes have various parts. The exterior, which is made of three main sections namely the quarter, the vamp, and the toe.
On the other hand, the interior is lined with a different material for added comfort to the user.
Lastly, let’s not forget the outsole and the heel, which are also composed of other materials.
While most dress shoes are made of leather, other styles use other materials for their exterior.
To be more specific, though, we will go through the different parts of the dress shoe and determine what goes into the construction of this footwear.
The part of the shoe that comes in contact with the ground is called the sole or outsole.
There are different methods when it comes to sole construction.
It can be made into one, thick layer. Sometimes, soles are made of several layers using different materials such as leather, rubber, crepe, and synthetics.
Leather soles for dress shoes can be divided into two main types: single and double.
Single piece of leather soles are usually made of a single layer of thick leather, and the result is a thin sole that looks sleek and elegant.
On the other hand, double leather soles are made of two pieces of leather bonded to each other.
Of course, they're thicker and more durable than the single-layered leather sole. They look more casual, though.
The main downside to leather soles is they can be difficult to maintain.
As such, some brands infuse their pieces with oil for longer wearability.
You might prefer looking into rubber soles if you really value long-lasting durability.
What makes rubber soles more durable is their ability to survive the elements.
You can wear your rubber-soled less formal dress shoes, rain or shine, without worries. They provide better traction, too.
We recommend looking into rubber soles with grooves or indentations for more friction and support.
Finally, there are combination soles that use both leather and rubber in their construction.
Their rubber sections are usually placed in the heel for added traction and weather protection.
Here’s a part of the shoe that doesn’t get seen: the footbed filler.
It is an interior layer that separates the outsole from the insole.
It plays an essential role in reducing your feet's impact and the bottom part of the shoes.
A lot of brands prefer using a cork material for the footbed filler.
That is because it follows the natural curves of your feet after a while, providing personalized comfort.
It is also important to note that most dress shoes have a metal shank underneath the footbed.
It gives your shoes more structure and gives the insole the curve that follows your feet's arch.
Lastly, there’s the part that actually touches our feet: the insole.
While the classic, especially more vintage, pieces have leather insoles, more and more brands shift towards both plain or patterned textiles.
These pieces are considered more casual than those with leather insoles.
Still, you can wear them during formal events.
You can also add removable insoles to your shoes if you need the added comfort and support.
These are available in different types and materials, but here are the most common ones.
These are great for those who expect really hectic activities.
That’s because gel insoles were designed specifically for shock absorption.
Gel insoles are also known to significantly decrease feet fatigue, even if they tend to be heavier than other insoles.
These insoles are usually made out of wool and were designed to provide insulation.
Higher quality ones can even retain your feet's natural temperature, whether you’re in a hot or cold environment.
As mentioned, some brands utilize a footbed filler made out of cork that can conform to your feet's natural shape.
They do take a while to mold, though, which can severely impact your experience during the first few months of breaking in your dress shoes.
This is where moldable insoles come in. They are made of a special material that speeds up the molding process.
All you need to do is heat them a bit in the oven and stand on them as they cool.
Another option is to get a memory foam insole.
While it tends to bounce back to its original form during the first few weeks of usage, it can retain the shape of your feet over time.
Aside from those we have mentioned above, there are also ergonomically-designed insoles for orthotic purposes should you require them.
Dress shoes are sometimes categorized according to their main material.
If so, then it is based on the construction of the exterior body of your dress shoes. Leather is the most common one.
Dress shoes come in different types based on the type of leather used in their construction.
Here are the most common made with leather ones used for men’s dress shoes:
Some of the best American made men’s dress shoes are constructed using calfskin.
Also known as vellum, this type of leather is commonly used in quality dress shoes.
High-end brands prefer European calves over North American ones since they are known to have better quality.
That is all thanks to their stricter breeding standards.
Although calfskin is also preferred for its fine grain, it's prone to scratching.
Treating it with proper polish can easily hide these marks if they are not that deep and help develop a beautiful patina.
Regular maintenance is also required to ensure that your pair doesn’t dry or crack.
This is the term used to refer to premium calfskin. It was coined by Joseph Box, one of the pioneers of leather shoe craftsmanship.
Cowhide and calfskin obviously come from the same animal.
That said, they yield different results and are thus categorized differently when it comes to leather types.
It is also notable to mention that most cowhide used for dress shoes are byproducts of the meat industry.
This leather type is also thicker and more fibrous, making it perfect for dress boots.
This material is not as common as the previous ones.
Also known as peccary, from the name of the specific animal it is harvested from, this leather is known for its softness and interesting texture.
One of its best qualities is that it doesn’t scratch that easily.
We suggest, though, that you should skip wearing a pigskin-made leather dress shoes during rainy days.
This material is usually categorized separately from leather because of the stark contrast in texture and aesthetic.
We will include it in the leather category for this article's purposes since it also comes from animal hide.
Different types of suede exist, depending on the animal that it comes from, but cow suede and sheepskin suede are the most common ones.
You wouldn’t want to use suede during rainy days, just like the previous material featured.
That’s because it tends to absorb moisture faster and longer.
Also, it is more prone to staining if you’re not careful.
Additionally, suede should not be confused with chamois and nubuck.
While the three share similar qualities, they come from different parts of an animal hide and undergo distinct treatments.
This is one of the most luxurious leathers out there.
It is a membrane that comes from a horse’s hindquarters that undergoes complex processing.
The process can last up to six months before you can use the material for shoemaking.
Most people like it for its smooth and pore-less appearance.
What we love best about this material, though, is that it ages well.
It is water-resistant, durable, and known to last for decades with proper maintenance.
This material originated from Scotland, as the name suggests. However, it also goes by the name of pebble grain thanks to its pebble-like texture.
It is a bit thicker compared to the other materials featured and is thus known for its durability.
Its texture can also easily hide scratches and other imperfections.
Are you always worried that your dress shoes are not shiny enough?
Then you might want to consider getting a pair made of patent leather.
It was originally developed through a complicated process to achieve that high-gloss finish.
More modern versions use plastics or other synthetic materials to recreate the effect, though.
If you want high-quality patent leather, we recommend choosing a pair that comes from Japan, where the manufacturing process originated.
Finally, there are exceptional leathers that come from more rare and exotic animals.
Here are some of them:
The alligator leather used for the best mens dress shoes made in USA usually comes from the American Alligator.
These types of leather are costly and are thus prone to replication.
One thing to keep in mind when checking for authenticity is the scale pattern. It shouldn’t be too uniform.
If you want to save a bit, then we recommend taking a look into crocodile leather instead.
This type of material is very rare, so kudos to you if you find a pair of dress shoes made from it.
Its texture is similar to suede, although more fibrous.
It is known to be one of the softest and most breathable leather materials in the world.
This material is also more prone to scratching, so not many shoemakers prefer it.
Even so, wearing it is a dream. Your feet won’t get tired easily and sweat as much.
Want a material that is as rare and breathable yet not as delicate?
That’s something that elephant leather can offer!
However, we recommend conducting careful research before buying a pair to make sure that it comes from legal sources.
There is a lot of poached elephant leather out there.
Here’s something that meets an acquired taste thanks to its distinguished texture.
Even so, it remains to be one of the most sought-out exotic materials for dress shoes thanks to its excellent qualities.
It is soft yet durable, scratch-resistant, and doesn’t dry out.
Ostrich leather shoes can be quite an investment, but they’re worthwhile.
The shoe components and materials mentioned above are not the only ones that your dress shoes have.
There are definitely more pieces that go into making your pair, like welts and backstays.
Those are also not the only types of leather used in making the best mens dress shoes made in USA.
There are countless more like snake leather, lizard leather, and sharkskin.
Part of the reason that makes these shoes more expensive than your average sneakers is the complex design and craftsmanship dedicated to them.
The question now is which one should you choose? It all depends on what you want to achieve.
If you want a timeless pair that will look perfect for most occasions, then a calfskin pair will already do the trick.
They are great for work and more conservative settings.
If you seek your footwear to stand out a bit and even spark conversation, then you might want to consider investing in something that’s more unique, like a pair made of ostrich leather.
We also understand that some might not be too comfortable wearing animal-sourced dress shoes.
You will be pleased to learn that there are vegan dress shoes out there.
These dress shoes are usually made of pleather, a material that seeks to recreate leather with polymers, such as PU and PVC.
Do note, though, that these are also made from organic materials, like cork and hemp.
Some of the best American made men's dress shoes are even shoes made from recycled materials like rubber tires and plastic bottles!
Have you ever wondered what a men's dress shoe is made from?
Surprisingly, each pair is constructed using a wide variety of materials, including cork and metal.
That depends on the complexity of the design and the craftsmanship that went into making a pair.
The most common material, though, are made of leather. There are various leather choices out there, from the usual calfskin to the more exotic alligator leather.
There are also vegan alternatives for those who are more conscious of their fashion choices.
That said, we believe that the material your dress shoes are made from plays only one part in your shoe construction and longevity.
Proper maintenance is more essential, especially if you’re opting for a pair made of actual animal hide.
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]]><p>The post How to Clean Leather Dress Shoes to Make Them Last first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Once you've found the perfect pair of dress shoes, you need to keep your shoes them looking their best. It’s a challenge to do this without the right shoe polishing tools or proper shoe care knowledge.
Learning how to clean leather dress shoes is the best way to keep your footwear looking and feeling its best for an extended period, allowing you to get more life out of your formal shoes.
It's important to clean your shoes regularly with a soft horsehair shoe brush. You can find a variety of shoe cleaning products that are designed specifically for cleaning leather shoes. You can also use other everyday items, including corn starch, j-cloths, baby wipes, old t-shirts, and pencil erasers.
The first shoe care step for cleaning leather dress shoes is to remove debris and dirt from the shoe using a soft brush. Make sure that you’re rubbing gently and ensure that you brush over every surface of the shoe in a slightly circular pattern.
Don’t rub too hard because it could damage the leather; make sure the brush is soft enough that you can run it over your hand without it feeling scratchy. Also, don’t forget to run the brush on the sole and seam of the shoes, as well as the laces.
If your shoes have shoelaces, it's essential that you pull them out carefully and set them to the side. This helps to prevent the cleaning products from staining the lace, as it isn’t made of leather.
If the laces are dirty, you can wash them in your washing machine. Put them in a mesh bag to keep them together and prevent them from getting lost. Alternatively, you can hand wash them.
The next step is to take a clean cloth and wet it, wringing it out so that it doesn’t drip, and it's damp.
Add some mild liquid soap to the cloth and rub the cloth together on itself to distribute the soap evenly. Alternatively, you can use a special leather cleaner for this step. Gently rub the cloth all over the surface of your entire shoe, going with the grain.
Taking another clean cloth, dampen it, and wipe your shoes again. This helps to remove any excess soap from the shoes. Keep your shoes in a cool spot to air dry until they're completely dry. Do not put your shoes near a heat source, such as a furnace vent or the stove since this could cause the shoes to crack or become discolored.
Baby wipes are one of the gentlest cleaning products on the market because they're designed for the sensitive skin of babies. Choose a wipe that's moisturizing to help condition the leather.
While you don’t need to wipe them with baby wipes each time you clean them, it's handy to have them on hand to spot clean your shoes. This works well if you are traveling or at work, and your shoes get dirty or scuffed.
Learning how to clean leather dress shoes correctly means removing those built-up salt stains. Your shoes see a lot of use in all types of weather. You’ll notice the dirt and grime, as well as a white film that never seems to leave.
You can remove salt stains from leather shoes using a water-vinegar mixture. Mix equal parts of water with white vinegar. Then, dip a clean, dry cloth into the liquid and rub the shoe surface gently. When you’ve removed all the stains, you should get another clean cloth, dampen it with water, and wipe them again to remove the vinegar solution.
Whether you spilled your lunch on your new shoes or you work in an area that's oily or greasy, you need to remove those grease stains from your shoes to keep them looking their best. You can do this easily with an absorbent powder. You don’t have to spend a lot of money; you can use talcum or baby powder.
Sprinkle the powder sparingly over the oil or grease stains and let it sit for about two or three hours. The powder will absorb all the oil during this time. Then, you can use a soft brush (like the one you used initially) to remove the excess powder.
If you don’t have baby or talcum powder and don’t want to purchase it, you can also use corn starch. Corn starch is not quite as absorbent as powder, though, so you’ll need to leave the corn starch on the shoes for up to eight hours to remove the oil or grease stain entirely.
Once your leather shoes look clean and brand new again, it’s time to get them shining like the first day you bought them. Take a clean cloth and pour a few drops of your shoe polish onto it.
If your polish is colored, make sure it perfectly matches your shoes. You can test an inconspicuous spot, such as the space between the tongue and the outer part of the shoe.
Rub the polish all over your shoe’s surface using circular, small motions. Wipe away any excess polish with another clean, dry cloth. An old, clean undershirt or t-shirt will work fine for this. You mustn't put shoe polish on any non-leather parts of the shoe.
Polishing your shoes is essential to provide the leather with the moisture it needs to keep it supple and prevent cracking. It's recommended to shine or polish the shoes every couple of weeks if you wear them more than three times a week.
As a final leather shoe cleaning tip, you may want to use a waterproofing spray as well as shoe trees to help preserve the appearance of your footwear.
Learning how to clean and polish leather dress shoes is essential. Dress shoes are an investment, and many times, they can cost hundreds of dollars.
You aren’t going to want to shell out that amount of money every couple of months, so it's imperative that they're cleaned to avoid scuffing, as well as polished to remove the scuffs.
While it can be a challenge to find the time to clean your shoes, it's best to do a deep clean at least once every two weeks and a spot clean (with baby wipes) as often as necessary. That way, your shoes will last longer and also help you to create the right impression.
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]]><p>The post Shoe Size Conversion Chart for Men And Women | Find Your Right Size first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>With the current state of the world, buying shoes online is an even better idea than before. While you may still hesitate, there are many reasons to pursue the exciting, convenient world of online shoe shopping! The best one is you can find shoes that fit.
The selection online for men's, women's and children's shoes far exceeds what retail locations could carry. As a warehouse, we can stock shelves much higher and deeper, so you get a better selection. No more trying to choose between two pairs that aren't quite right. You can now get exactly what you want.
When you take a look at a shoe sizing chart that spans across different places, you may wonder, why do shoe sizes change per country?
It surely would be simpler if every country followed the same measurements, but that’s not the case. Each method for measuring feet is derived from something deeply rooted in that country's history and culture.
The first example we’ll get into is in the UK. Their sizing, much like most of their other measurements, has origins that are the easiest to trace.
Developed by King Edward II in 1324, people used to measure their feet using barleycorn. A barleycorn is a small unit of length that's about 1/3 of an inch (0.8467cm.) These barleycorns are still used as the basis of shoe sizes in many English-speaking countries like Ireland, India, Pakistan, and South Africa.
The smallest size considered to be practical is called a size zero. But then again, nothing is formally standardized. The child's size zero is about 4" long, and here's where it gets complicated. A hand equals 12 barleycorns, which is 10.16 cm. Sizes go up to 13 1/2 , which is 25 1/2 barleycorns, 8 1/2 inches, or 21.59 cm.
In the European Union, the measurement system is the exact length of your foot (in Paris points) with an additional two centimeters for comfort in the toe box. You might think it would be simpler to measure your feet in centimeters. Instead, EU sizes use Paris points, which are 2/3 of a single centimeter.
This European shoe sizing system is used in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and most of the other continental European countries.
Also, Middle Eastern countries like Iran, Brazil, in South America and Hong Kong use the same method but subtract two cm. from the results. Essentially, they measure foot size instead of the part of the shoe called the last (which is longer than your foot).
In the US and Canada, different systems are used at the same time. The sizes are usually similar but not the same, especially for really big athletic shoes. Men's shoes are one size shorter than the British sizes, so a US size men's 13 is the same size as a UK men's 12. This is because the shoe measuring system is similar to UK sizes, but in North America, shoes start at size one instead of zero.
Even before you start looking at all the different men's, women's and children's shoe size conversion charts, you first need to know how to find your correct shoe size. In a retail location, you have probably tried on shoes to see how they fit your feet. Finding shoes that fit is usually a process of trial and error that can sometimes make people hesitate to buy shoes online.
But usually. people walk into a retail store, find a pair of shoes they like from the display, and ask, "Can I get this in a size 7?" No measurements. All you really have to go on is the size of the shoes in your closet. And that can work. But, when you shop online, it's best to use every tool at your disposal, and some quick measurements often make a HUGE difference.
Take a few minutes to measure your feet before ordering to make online shoe shopping much more relaxed and less time consuming.
Below are our favorite ways to find your correct shoe size and assure you find shoes that fit.
The first and least expensive way to measure your feet is to use a tape measure that you likely have around the house. This measuring method will give you the country-specific shoe size. Then, you can convert that size using one of the charts in this guide.
Look for a piece of paper that is larger than your foot. Put the piece of paper on the ground and step on it. Then, use a dark-colored pencil to trace the outline of your foot onto the paper. Repeat this process for both feet.
Once you have successfully traced your feet, use your measuring tape to measure the length and width of your feet. Write the measurements down, as you’ll need them for the next step.

At this point, you should have your foot size in inches (or centimeters) available for you to use. You’ll want to focus mostly on the length of your foot, as it determines the size. Use the children, men's, and women's shoe size charts, to convert your shoe size measurement in inches to USA sizing.
Another popular option for measuring your feet is to learn how to use a Brannock device. This is the fancy metal device you typically see in shoe stores that their associates use to measure your foot size. Using a Brannock device is quite simple with these steps.
Make sure that before measuring your feet, you extend the width all the way. Make sure the arch length indicator is all the way back so that you can put your foot in the device.
Remove your shoes and socks. Stand up on the Brannock device with your right heel pushed back into the right heel cup. Make sure you put pressure down onto the device.
It's usually easier to have someone else read the device for you. Otherwise, your foot may shift and give you an incorrect reading. While you stand and press your toes flat against the Brannock device, read the toe length shown above the longest toe.
Step #4: Measure the Arch Length
Next, you’re going to want to use the arch pointer to measure the arch length. Slide the pointer tip so that the inside of it fits on the ball joint of the foot. When properly positioned, the middle of the foot should be against the ball joint, and you will be able to read the arch measurement.
The last step to using the Brannock device is to figure out your actual shoe size. You’ll want to compare the heel-to-toe length to the arch length and use the larger of the two measurements to find the size.
You'll want to compare the heel to toe length to the arch length and use the larger of the two measurements to find the size. If both measures are equal, that is your shoe size. If the heel-to-toe is more substantial, that is your shoe size.
Although the Brannock device may appear complicated, learning how to use the device is much simpler than you might think. This is the tool professionals use to be sure they find shoes that fit properly.

If you’ve ever worn shoes that are too small for your feet, you likely know how uncomfortable it is, very quickly. There’s nothing worse than feeling your toes push up against the toe box of your shoes throughout the day. So, the short answer to how much toe room you should you have in your shoes, is to have at least half an inch of space.
A half-inch should give you more than enough wiggle room to adjust your feet, so they remain comfortable. Also, it accommodates different thicknesses of socks, depending on the weather. Most importantly, it’s not too much space where you won’t be able to tighten your shoes for an optimal fit.
If you were to ask any shoe fanatic, there’s a significant difference between whole and half shoe sizes. When you start shopping, you might ask yourself how much difference a half shoe size is. Made in a way that is comfortable for someone who falls halfway in between two regular sizes, half size shoes are a fantastic option.
On average, half a shoe size is about a 1/3" difference.
You will find half shoe sizes offer slightly more room, which is what makes them an excellent option for someone who might not fit into a ten but would see an 11 as being too large.
At times, they may also mean that the width of the shoe is slightly larger than full sizes. For many, merely going up half a shoe size means far less foot fatigue and the ability to walk and run for more extended periods.
A half size can be the difference between sore feet and shoes that fit.
When figuring out how shoe sizes run in the real world, the most important thing to do is to make sure you measure your feet before buying a pair of shoes. You'll also want to remember that although you wear a size nine in runners, you might need a size 10 in combat boots or a nine-and-a-half in ballet flats.
Armed with careful measurements, look at the shoe description online to decide what size to order. Take note of how different types of shoes fit you in the past and use your best judgement. By far, the best way to figure out what size shoe is best for the pair you’re interested in is to try them on in-person. When trying your shoes on, you’ll want to walk around in them for a few minutes and get a feeling for how they fit.
Ensure you lace both shoes up fully and are wearing a comfortable pair of socks. Properly lacing the shoes should give you more than a good idea of whether the size is right for you or if you need to size up or size down.
The NDP Group (a global consumer retail tracking company) reported that the US footwear industry grew by 7% in the first six months back in 2018. Online purchases accounted for 90% of those gains. Sport leisure categories and women's fashion shoes drive the growth. NDP Group now reports that 36% of online shoppers purchase footwear online.
This appears to be the new normal, as e-commerce shoe shopping continues to grow every day!
Below are tables presenting the different adult's and kid's shoe sizes, in inches and centimeters, used in different countries, including European shoe size conversions.










You'll also see some shoes from the United Kingdom, India, Mexico, and some European countries using the Mondopoint system. NATO and some military organizations use Mondopoint because it offers such an accurate footwear measurement. The measurements include foot length, width, and perimeter (circumference) defined in the Mondopoint standard.
Introduced in the 1970's by International Standards, the Mondopoint system uses average foot length and width, measured in millimeters. The length is measured as the horizontal distance between the end of the prominent toe and the back part of the heel. The width is measured as a horizontal distance between the vertical lines from the first to the fifth metatarsophalangeal joints. The perimeter is the length of the foot's circumference, measured using a flexible tape at the same point as the foot's width.
The labeling looks unusual to most civilians. The sizes include foot length and then width. For example, 280/110 is a typical shoe size in Mondopoint. It indicates the foot length is 280 millimeters (11.0 inches) and the width is 110 millimeters (4.3 inches). Sometimes, they add the US, EU, or UK sizes, too.
Because Mondopoint considers the foot width, it tends to create shoes that fit better than other sizing systems, even without a fitting. That's why military organizations frequently use this system.
Men and women's shoes are as different as men's and women's feet! And as different as men's and women's fashion. They differ in many ways ranging from the way they're designed to the way they fit on your feet.
But the most well-known difference is that men’s shoes are wider than women’s shoes because men’s feet are characteristically larger. Because of the option for wider shoes, many women prefer to buy men’s shoes, especially when searching for sneakers or other comfy shoes.
Another significant difference you're sure to notice when you go shopping is that men’s sizes are numerically “smaller” than women’s sizes. The differences in dimensions can be confusing at times, as you may wonder, does that mean men’s feet are smaller?
No, that's not the case. The sizes are smaller numerically and not in physical size. Men's shoes are actually bigger than women's shoes. Usually, men's shoes are 1 1/2 inches longer and 2 widths broader than the same size women's shoes. So, a size 9 men's shoe is a size 10 1/2 in women's shoes. Plus, men's shoes come in a standard D width, while women's shoes are a standard B width.
As time goes on, it becomes harder to answer what is the difference between men's and women's shoes because fashion crosses over so often. Unisex designs also make it easier to find the perfect size shoe if you’re a woman with larger feet or a man with smaller feet.
Today, there’s no need to worry about guidelines when selecting shoes as there are a wide variety of styles in plenty of different sizes for you to choose from.
When you have the right men's and women's shoe size conversion chart to use, you'll always be able to find shoes that fit no matter where you shop. Even if you’re merely curious about what size feet you would have in Japan, Australia, or even the UK, these charts will help.
With these numerous exciting ways to calculate your sizing, finding the right shoes becomes much more straightforward!
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]]>If you’re like many people, you know your general shoe size. You go to your local shoe shop and buy a couple of pairs of sneakers, and you have no problems.
When the time comes, you buy a pair of dress shoes in the same size as your sneakers, and you’re shocked to find that the shoe doesn’t fit correctly or feels odd. The question surfaces, “Do dress shoes run big?” The answer is yes, for most shoe brands.
Of course, answering the question doesn’t help you determine how to find the best fitting dress shoe. Go to any shoe salesperson, and you’re going to be in for a long process of measurements, trying shoes on, and trying to get a feel for them in the space of a few minutes.
Most professional shoe salespeople know that an exact foot measurement isn’t needed. In many cases, the salesperson ends up having the customer return the pair of shoes if a foot measurement is all that you go by. This is because most shoe manufacturers and brands don’t work around actual measurements of the feet.
Sizes are not universal among the different brands, so a size nine from one brand might fit similarly as a size 10.5 in another. Each shoe is made different, so it doesn’t matter much if you know that your foot is 4.7 inches wide by 10.2 inches long. Of course, your exact foot size might be needed if you want to get custom-made shoes, but that's expensive, and most people dislike the hassle involved to get them.
Before trying on dress shoes, it’s best to know a few things first and do a few things.
You need to have a general idea of your shoe size before you try on dress shoes. You’ve probably worn a variety of shoes before, and they’ve probably all been similarly sized.
Since each manufacturer is different, it’s going to be a trial and error process to find the right pair. However, you can start with your average shoe size and go from there to get a rough estimate.
Most people assume that you need to break in shoes before it fits correctly, but this is false. The moment you slip on that shoe, it should fit comfortably and feel like it was made for your foot. Otherwise, it's doubtful the shoes are ever going to fit correctly.
Most dress shoes are made of leather, so they don’t stretch a lot if at all. Breaking in a pair of shoes isn’t going to happen. It’s just going to make your feet hurt, and you'll waste a lot of money.
Do dress shoes run big? In almost all cases, the answer is yes. If you wear a size 9 in a regular shoe, you’re likely to need a 9 1/2 or even a 10 in a dress shoe. One of the factors for larger dress shoe sizes is that your feet swell throughout the day.
Therefore, it's best if you can try on your dress shoes in the afternoon. You’ll get a more realistic idea of the fit and size you require.
You may not realize it, but each foot is a different size. Many times, the sizing is minute, and you can’t really tell the difference. However, you should always try on both shoes so that you have a better idea of how they fit on the smaller and larger foot.
Remember, it’s easier to work with a shoe that is slightly too big than too small.
When it comes time to try on the dress shoes, you need to consider a few things before deciding if you should buy them.
If you plan to wear socks with your dress shoes, you need to make sure you’re wearing the same type of sock that you’re going to wear normally. For example, if you plan to wear ankle socks with the shoe, don’t put on a pair of woolen socks to try them on.
When you slip your foot into the shoe, you’re likely to try to curl the toes under slightly or bunch them up. Resist the urge to do that.
Try to let your foot relax completely in the shoe to ensure that it doesn’t press on the toes. Some guides say that your toes should barely touch the front of the shoe, but this is incorrect.
Your toes should not touch the shoe front at all when standing. If they do, the shoe is a little too short. With that being said, you don’t want a lot of extra room between the shoe and the toes as well.
The trouble with grazing the front of the shoe is that the toes are then jammed into the shoe with each step you take, making it very uncomfortable to walk long distances.
When you put the shoe on, you shouldn’t feel any squeezing or pressure anywhere, but especially not on the sides of your feet. If that happens, you might need a half size bigger. Some shoes have a regular and a wide width option, so look for that.
On the flip side, though, you shouldn’t have so much room on the sides of your feet that your foot can move when it’s laced up or slipped on.
S0, do dress shoes run big? Yes, most dress shoes do tend to run slightly larger than other shoe types because they have less give and stretch in them.
It can seem impossible to find the right shoe, but you can make it easier on yourself by knowing your shoe size, shopping in the afternoon, and paying close attention to the feel of the shoe.
It's also helpful to have the full afternoon free so that you’re not rushed while trying to shop for a pair. This will make you frustrated when you find dress shoes that you think you like only to wear them once at work and get blisters or feel the achy tiredness of wearing the wrong size shoe all day long.
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]]>Men often wonder if they're wearing suitable footwear, especially if they're going to work in a new environment or have an upcoming job interview. Appearances are important, though most employers consider your personality and job skills more than what you wear. However, the goal is to fit in well with the rest of the employees, and you can’t do that if your outfit looks out of place.
It’s best to be as comfortable as possible, but you also have to make sure that your men's work attire is suitable for the occasion. If you’re going on a job interview soon or you’ve got your first day at a new, business casual or professional job, you may be wondering, “Are men's slip-on loafer shoes professional?”
The question comes up frequently for men and women, and the answer isn’t quite as concise as you’d probably expect.
When it comes to footwear, most women feel that more choice is always better, while men often think that less is fine, meaning it’s best not to have too many pairs. Nonetheless, we believe that you can never have enough men's shoes.
You’ll find endless style options, as well as designs, materials, colors, and finishes. While we think you should have many different shoes for a variety of outfits, finding the right pair can be challenging.
Learning about the difference between slip-on and lace-up shoes is the first step, but then you have to determine which option is most suitable for your needs.
Lace up men's dress shoes are ones with material all around the foot and toe, usually to the ankle. They're commonly made of a high-quality material such as leather, and can have a unique design or stitching in a contrasting color.
The shoe is usually made to be wider on the top part of the foot and has eyelet holes with a shoelace that runs through them. You tighten the shoelace ends to ensure that the shoe stays on. You can then tie the laces together.
Slip-on dress shoes for men are also made with high-quality material, usually leather. These shoes can also have designs and contrast stitching on them, but the shoe itself is one piece (some shoes are pieced together).
Instead of laces, it usually has an elastic piece on either side of the ankle or top part of the foot, which allows you to put the shoe on or take it off easily.
Understanding the different types is the first step to answering the question, “Are slip-on dress shoes professional attire for men?” Of course, it also depends on the style of the shoe. Some lace-up shoes (think sneakers) are not professional at all while some slip-on shoes (think penny-loafers) can look highly professional.
We’re constantly asked if lace-up shoes look more formal than slip-ons, and the answer is usually yes. Of course, lace-up shoes can be worn to informal affairs, as well.
Styling rules aren’t that strict, but there is something that screams formal when you have a stylish pair of laced dress shoes, making them suitable for weddings, business events, and everyday work wear.
Of course, there's a proper way to lace the shoes so that the laces don’t crisscross on the outside of the shoe. While that may be appropriate for sneakers, it isn’t suitable for dress shoes, and you’ll seem out of place with crisscrossed laces.
Popular laced footwear options include Oxford shoes, and you can find a variety of styles, such as glossy leather for formal looks and muted suede for casual events. If you don’t prefer Oxfords, you can always try Derby style shoes. You can choose between many colors to help you find the right option for your preferences and wardrobe attire.
It should also be mentioned that women’s shoes are a little different. While men’s shoes tend to be laced for more formality, women’s shoes are the opposite. Laced shoes for women tend to include sneakers, which aren’t usually considered an appropriate choice for weddings and business wear.
Men's slip on loafer shoes tend to have a more casual feel, though it depends on their styling as to whether or not they can be worn to formal events. Many times, they can look great with a pair of trousers or a pair of jeans.
With that being said, if you’re going to an extremely formal event, you may wear men's slacks instead of trousers. Regardless, they do have their place in a modern man’s shoe wardrobe, and they tend to be the go-to footwear option because of their high versatility.
You don’t have to learn about any tricky techniques to wear them because you slip your feet in them to start and right back out at the end of the day. Many men choose to take off their shoes when behind their desks, which is easier to do with a slip-on. Popular slip-on style shoes for men include loafers, moccasins, and boat shoes.
Slip-ons are a suitable option for summer months, as well. They tend to make it a little easier for your feet to breathe and may sometimes be made of more breathable materials. You’ll also find that many shoemakers focus on stylish, formal slip-ons because they are so popular with everyone.
Again, slip-on shoes for women are the preferable formal pair of shoes. You can find pumps, stilettos, and many other styles that are, in a sense, slip-on. Even sandals with backs can be considered a slip-on, and they can look very formal (think weddings).
Again, the question remains, “Are slip-on dress shoes professional?”, and the answer is both a yes and a no. They can be just as professional looking as laced shoes, and the opposite is true. Laced shoes, such as boots, are never going to look formal with a tuxedo, slacks, or trousers.
Choosing the right footwear is a challenge because you need to have some knowledge of the trends, what’s appropriate for your work, and how those in your profession are expected to dress.
If you tend to feel more comfortable in a slip-on or frequently stand or walk about at work, it's more important to choose a shoe that fits you comfortably instead of an uncomfortable pair that looks shiny or incredibly dressy.
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]]>We’ve recently begun a new year, and this year we need to be as stylish as ever. This might be a good time to re-evaluate any formal footwear you currently have in your closet. You can’t just jump into the new year wearing a pair of old, worn-out dress shoes.
So what do people mean exactly when they say, “dress shoes”? Generally, these are men's shoes you would wear with a suit or something elegant. When it comes to dress shoes, certain types dominate. These can be dependent on the event or occasion they’ll be worn to and also the wardrobe they're to be paired with. For many men, the Oxford shoe will match well for most occasions. Meant for formal gatherings, a pair of Oxford shoes for men is something that should not be missing from any shoe closet.
You can also go for casual dress shoes made of fabric, suede, or any other kind of “casual” material. An advantage of these casual shoes is that you’re not limited to a formal tuxedo or suit and that you can even wear them with jeans. It all depends on your sense of style.
Speaking of style, what are some models that men don’t seem to get tired of? Well, have a look at some of these recent popular dress shoes that are currently available.
If there’s anything that we know about famous shoe designers, it’s that they never go out of style. Mixing a diamond-textured pattern with sleek, beautiful black leather, these shoes are still one of the top choices that people decide to take on a formal trip. Plus, the square toe is unique and elegant and will offer a nice, special touch to every one of your outfits.
With a combination of detail and smooth leather, these shoes will provide the style you're looking for when paired with most professional business attire. The rounded square toe is pointed, drawing more attention to the shoes themselves, and the laces are simple and easy, providing a nice touch. The synthetic
shoe sole is also made to be durable and comfortable, making them easy to wear.
Black dress shoes are always in style, which is why these Kenneth Cole shoes are such a popular pair. They’re even more popular thanks to the fact that they use monk straps instead of shoelaces, which makes it easier for you to take your shoes off and on. Plus, they can be slightly more attractive than footwear with shoelaces, so we can understand their popularity.
With these shoes, you'll be able to display a more regal appearance, seeing as they vaguely resemble something royalty would have worn many years ago. The heel also helps to increase height without drawing too much attention to the addition of a chunkier heal not often seen in men's shoes.
Wingtip dress shoes are also a popular choice that men decided to bring into the new year, which is why this Dream Pairs model is so popular. The perforated leather design makes them perfect for those who walk around a lot. Not only are they very stylish – but they're practical as well. Also, you have several dress shoe color options to choose from.
The addition of the wooden heel makes them durable, and the design of the shoe laces makes them easy to slide on and off. They're also going to work well with a wider variety of clothing styles, meaning you can spruce up smart casual men's outfits with these shoes just as easily as with a suit.
Those looking for both comfort and style might be happy to know that the Seakee shoes are still highly stylish. While these shoes are made from PU leather (a humanmade leather made using leather combined with polyurethane), which is known for its elegance, they're also casual enough to be worn with a pair of everyday trousers or jeans. Practical shoes that you can wear just about anywhere will always be in style.
Some men dislike shoes that make their feet look as if they're shrinking as they reach the toe. They like those that have a little more substance, which is why these Dockers wide toe shoes are considered very stylish. Indeed, they still have the Oxford look, but the toe cap is wider and rounder.
These shoes are unique in that they bring together the look of a more durable work shoe and the style of a dress shoe. Because of that, you'll be able to wear them with your formal business attire in meetings as well as regular work activities without having to worry that they'll fail in either. The thicker leather material will also help them to last a long time.
Men's sporty dress shoes are still in style nowadays. Comfortable shoes will never go out of style – and while sneakers and suits have always been frowned upon, people still manage to find their way around them. Now we can’t get enough of them.
For those who are looking to stand out a little more in the office, these shoes are a great way to do it. They're also made to be very flexible and breathable so you'll be comfortable wearing them all day. They're available in a variety of colors for those looking for footwear that will match their style.
We live in a time when we like to add color to our lives – so why not add a pair of red oxford shoes into the mix as well? This non traditional pair is popular not only because it’s breathable and summer-friendly, but because it’s also lively and colorful. There’s no place for boring wardrobe items nowadays, which is why these shoes continue to be in style.
These are an excellent choice for those who want to stand out while maintaining a professional appearance. They can make the office a little livelier, and help you feel more unique as you go about your day. Furthermore, you'll be able to get a lot of comfort from these shoes due to their breathability.
Dress shoes that can be worn with just about any outfit will always stay in style. There’s nothing more practical than a pair of shoes that you can wear both at work and a fun night out. These Mio Marino shoes are perfect to be paired with both jeans and tuxedos, which is why they're still considered to be in style.
Many tend to prefer dress shoes with a simple but stylish appearance. The gradient from the main section down toward the toe in some varieties can also draw the eye. For a further ability to adapt these shoes to almost any style, they're available in a wide range of colors.
Time is money, which is why you shouldn’t be wasting it on tying up shoelaces. This is exactly why slip on shoes for men such as the Bostonian leather dress shoes remain so popular. Simple and with no extra inconveniences, all you have to with them is slip your feet in, and you’re good to go. No shoelaces to tie is one reason why this particular model is so popular.
With elegant simplicity, these are fantastic for those who want to look good and not have to worry about receiving too much attention directed to their shoes. The added stretch at the top also makes them easy to put on and comfortable to wear.
The classic look will always be fashionable, but it’s often better when you can also give the dress shoes a modern twist. Made from suede leather and having a wingtip design, these dress shoes are trendy among men for smart casual or formal events. Plus, with the right clothing, you could also wear them on a regular night out.
For those who prefer suede to leather, these are a great option. In combination with the classic appearance, they also come in a wider range of colors so that you can get what you need to suit just about any outfit.
When in doubt, always go with Oxfords. This classic design will never go out of style, especially when you have a formal event coming up. For a more relaxed occasion, you could go for something smart casual, such as a suede pair with a colorful design. On the other hand, if you're on the more formal, “professional” side, the classic full-grain Oxfords are still fashionable and trendy, always a welcome addition to keep in your wardrobe.
<p>The post What Dress Shoes Are In Style? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How to Take Care of Dress Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Dress shoes can be expensive. If you’re going to spend your hard-earned money on good quality footwear, then you probably should learn how to take care of dress shoes. Depending on the color and material of your dress shoes, keeping them looking decent can be hard or straightforward.
To help you take care of your shoes, we're going to go over some tips and methods that you can employ. This will make taking care of your shoes much simpler, so you'll be able to incorporate them into your everyday life.
Taking care of your dress shoes is not that hard. As compared to regular shoes, it’s often easier. The average person will use their regular shoes a lot more than dress shoes.
In that case, they'll wear out faster and be harder to take care of. As long as you're not wearing your dress shoes every single day and clean them occasionally, you shouldn’t have to worry about keeping them in new condition.
There are some situations in which you might need to wear your dress shoes more often, for example, if your job requires formal work attire. In cases like these, it's even more important to ensure that your shoes are well taken care of. It's a good idea to view them as an investment. The better care you take of your shoes, the longer they'll last.
Caring for your dress shoes is very important. Dress shoes are different from other shoes as they're usually made from leather or suede. These types of materials need to be watched and taken care of as they can crack or peel.
You don’t want to buy dress shoes just to have them become damaged. Time tends to wear dress shoes more than it does regular shoes. For this reason, occasionally cleaning them is advised to avoid any unwanted damage.
Don't worry; this shoe maintenance doesn't have to be a difficult task. It's just regular upkeep meant to ensure your shoes stay in a good state for when you next need to wear them. That way, you also won't have to worry about replacing your shoes as often.
Before we get into how you can go about cleaning your dress shoes, let’s discuss some materials that you'll need to get started. None are costly, but all are necessary to properly clean your dress shoes. If all of this sounds like a lot, it's not and will be well worth it in the long run.
A good-quality horsehair shoe brush is essential to have as it's used for buffing. Using any other kind of brush is not advised. Shoe brushes are specifically designed to work on shoes, so they'll be less likely to cause any damage while offering the best level of effectiveness.
Make sure that you get the right kind of brush for your specific shoes, as styles can vary. If you're unsure, you can ask a professional at a shoe store, which is the best kind of brush for your particular shoes. There are multiple kinds of brushes for buffing as well as several types designed for finishing.
This is your number one tool for cleaning dress shoes. Shoe polish colors are available in different shades depending on the color of your shoes; for black dress shoes, get a black polish and for brown shoes, get a brown polish and so on. There's also shoe polish available that can be explicitly used on any colored shoes.
Polish can be a fantastic way to handle any marks on the shoes as well as make them look fresh overall. It's a low cost, easy-to-use addition to any shoe collection. It can be worthwhile to get a shoe tree as well, as this can be a great place to place shoes while you're cleaning them or waiting for them to dry.
The cloth is used for the shining and polishing parts of your shoes. Make sure that the fabric is clean; otherwise, you’ll run into unsatisfactory results. Having more than one cloth available is also a good idea. Typically, lint-free cloths are going to be the best ones to use on your shoes.
Similar to a shoe brush, if you're working with dress shoes made with suede materials, you should use a suede shoe brush. Again, it's not advised to use any other kind of brush with suede shoes. Just like standard shoe brushes, you should be able to find these at a local shoe or department store.
This is another type of brush that comes in handy when cleaning your suede dress shoes. They’re not expensive and helps to accomplish the job!
This is an essential product for any person interested in keeping their shoes clean. This spray uses revolutionary nanotechnology to create an invisible protective barrier that helps protect your shoes from getting spoiled by rain or water stains. It's perfect for keeping your shoes looking clean and new.
If you're looking for the most useful shoe care products to have, this is undoubtedly one of them. Weather, water, and other daily exposures can cause wear and damage to your shoes, so protecting them with a crep spray can ensure that they last longer.
Dress shoes can be made of many different materials. We'll only try to focus on the most popular materials – suede and leather. Most dress shoes on the market use one of these two materials.
Before getting started, make sure that you have all the tools you're going to need. If your shoes have specific wear or scuff marks, you'll want to address those first. If you can wipe the marks away with a specialized product, eraser or through normal washing, that's a great idea. Otherwise, you can move onto the next claen dress shoes step.
Polishing is next. This has been the number one method of cleaning leather shoes for as long as dress shoes have been around. You can accomplish a lot with a brush and some polish. You should be aware, though, that polishing colored dress shoes is a bit more complicated.
You'll want to make sure you have the right type of polish to not mess up your shoes. Luckily, there's a neutral polish available that can be used to polish any colored shoes.
The procedure of how to polish dress shoes is relatively simple. You want to begin by making sure there's no dirt on your shoes. Use a clean, soft shoe cloth to remove any dirt. Now, you can apply your polish to the shoe. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
Next, you want to bring out your horsehair shoe brush. Make sure it's clean. Use it to buff your shoe and also remove any minor dirt that you didn’t get with your cloth. Then, you can bring back your clean cloth and rub it quickly on your shoe to shine it.
Suede dress shoes bring a lot of style to your outfit, but they can be somewhat challenging to clean. Getting past this difficulty only means that you'll have shoes that last as long as leather dress shoes and also look better.
You'll want to start as you do with your leather dress shoes by removing any loose dirt with your shoe brush or cloth. Locate any scuff marks and use the suede shoe brush to remedy them. You can also use a nail brush for this step. Next, grab your suede brush to smooth everything out.
Now you can pull out your Crep Protect spray and give your clean suede dress shoes a layer of protection. Using this Crep spray before you even think about wearing your shoes is also an excellent idea for keeping your shoes clean.
So, now you're fully informed as to how to clean your shoes at home. Let’s recap. Yes, taking care of your dress shoes can be easier than with regular shoes.
At least that's the case for most people. You should look after your dress shoes because replacing them is not cheap. Just because you're not wearing them, it doesn’t mean they'll stay looking brand new forever. Time works on dress shoes faster than it does on ordinary shoes.
That's why you should invest in the proper shoe cleaning products in order to clean your shoes when you want. This way, your footwear will last a long time, and you won’t need to get a new pair for a while.
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]]><p>The post How Long Do Dress Shoes Last? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Buying a good pair of dress shoes is an investment, so you'll want them to last, especially if they're expensive. One question that often gets asked is: “How long should dress shoes last?” We all have our own expectations of the longevity of the shoes when we buy them.
We’ve already established that the key to getting long lasting dress shoes is to buy quality. Footwear should be designed and manufactured to be durable. It's also essential to ensure that you and your cobbler regularly look after the maintenance of your shoes so they'll remain in optimum condition.
You wouldn’t buy an expensive car and then leave it on your driveway to rust, never cleaning it, ignoring the warning signs when it was ready for service. Similarly, if you want dress shoes that last, then you need to have the same conscientious attitude towards looking after them.
Statistics from the Shoe Service Institute of America reported that in the 1930s, when classic leather shoes and elegant style were very much at their hey-day, there were over 100,000 shoe repair shops. Fast forward to today when there are just 4,300. Is that because the cobbling industry is out of fashion and no longer required? Or could it be that cheap dress shoes are abundant enough these days that many don't bother with the expense of getting them repaired or re-soled? Are quality shoes no longer seen as a viable investment, and have they become more disposable with the prevalence of Asian imports and the growth of online purchases?
There's one thing for sure, if you buy quality footwear, it will last, and your cost per wear will be reflected in that outlay as you continue to get years of wear and dependability from your dress shoes. You will occasionally need to hand them over to a professional for shoe maintenance to keep them in tip-top condition. To ensure they'll last, seek out quality shoe construction and design, use of durable natural shoe making materials like leather as opposed to vinyl and synthetics, and also ensure that you have the right fit. By that, we mean to have your feet accurately measured and consider the importance of length, breadth as well as your instep.
There's a range of factors that you'll need to take into consideration when trying to determine how long your dress shoes will last. Some of these factors include the following:
Even if you consider all of these factors and more to determine the average lifespan of a particular pair of footwear, life is filled with unexpected circumstances. You might estimate that your shoes should last at least a year and then tear your shoe against a sharp object tomorrow.
You get caught in a rainstorm and soak your shoes and not have a chance to dry them out properly for an entire week, which could leave them damaged. These examples illustrate there's not always a realistic way to determine how long should dress shoes last.
Primarily, it's going to depend on how often you wear the shoes, as well as how well you look after them. In some cases, people can get a high-quality pair of dress shoes to last for years by taking reasonable care of them and not wearing them every day. There are so many variables to consider, so the life of your shoes can vary.
It’s not an exaggeration to say that well maintained; quality leather shoes can last for years, so what might have initially felt like a cost, is actually an investment. In 2008, archaeologists discovered recognizably still intact, a 5,500-year-old pair of bespoke hand-stitched leather shoes. Now, how about that for wearability and durability?
The quality of leather and their price will often govern how long your favorite shoes are likely to last. Anything costing less than $100 is unlikely to be made from genuine leather and is designed to be worn out after six months to a year.
If you want to invest in a good pair of leather dress shoes, it’s best to avoid the cheaper options. If you're spending between $100 and $180 on a pair of leather shoes, you can expect one of two outcomes: Bad and overpriced shoes that will fall apart quickly or a decent pair of entry-level leather shoes.
Either way, shoes in this price range are unlikely to be made from top quality leather. You can expect genuine leather, although it might be top-grain or corrected grain leather. Depending on how the soles are attached, you can expect anywhere from 6 months to 2 years until they wear out.
In the price range of $180 to $300, you can expect good quality leather shoes. This range often offers leather soles too, which increases their longevity. The upper part of the shoe will also be made from higher quality leather, which is known to be more durable and breathable.
This means your feet will sweat less, preserving the inner lining of the shoe. You can expect between 1 to 5 years until these shoes wear out. If you can afford to invest more than $350 on a pair of expensive dress shoes, you'll be getting the best quality, handcrafted shoes. Shoes in this price range are likely to last between 2 to 10 years, provided they're cared for properly.
It's important to note some designer brands that have a higher price tag may not always provide the best quality since their focus is on design rather than their durability. Expect them to last as long as a pair of shoes in the price range below.
Caring for your shoes will significantly affect how long they last, regardless of price or quality. Thus, it's advised that you invest in a more expensive pair of leather dress shoes and learn how to care for them. This will not only save you money in the long run but will also save you the time and effort of shopping to replace them every six months. They'll also look a lot better and more fashionable.
While you might think that a shoe tree is a bit of a novelty, think again, because looking after your shoes by retaining their proper form and shape will help them last far longer. So, before you buy cheap shoes, consider the long term investment and years of wear you can enjoy if you invest some time into looking after your shoes.
There are many ways that you can look after leather shoes to ensure they'll last as long as possible. Here are a few leather shoe care maintenance tips to help you:
Be sure to polish your dress shoes regularly. This act alone can significantly increase the lifespan of your shoes. The more you wear your shoes, clearly the more they're going to flex, and it’s that flexing of the leather than can expose your shoes to moisture from the elements and other harsh environmental and chemical compounds. So just the very act of polishing them creates a protective coating that does help.
Not only does polish keep your shoes looking sharp and shining, but regular polishing can also repair any damage your shoes get from day-to-day wear. Besides, the polish also nourishes the leather, extending the shoes’ lifespan by keeping them healthy and flexible.
If you aren't sure about what kind of shoe polish to use, you can always consider asking a professional. Someone who works at a shoe store, particularly one that caters to leather shoes, will have a good idea of the polish that'll work best for your shoes. Otherwise, online resources can help you find the perfect solution to take the best care of your shoes.
Before wearing your shoes for the first time and regularly afterward, apply a water repellent. This will ensure that excess water doesn't affect the leather’s elasticity and will prevent any stretching.
Good water-based water repellent will protect leather shoes from too much moisture while keeping them from drying out too much. It's a great product to have for just about any pair of footwear, but especially for your high-quality leather shoes. It's essential to make sure you get the right brand for your specific shoe type to ensure the best results.
A good pair of cedarwood shoe trees will help extend the life of your leather shoes by filling them out when you're not wearing them. This prevents the leather from shrinking or creasing. Cedar is the most recommended material for shoe trees as it absorbs harmful moisture and odors.
It's also a good idea to make sure you use a quality shoe stretcher rather than one of the more experimental options out there. Methods like using a hairdryer or freezer may seem appealing because they claim to work more quickly, but they can easily do some severe damage to your shoes.
Before using a polish, cleaning your shoes with a quality shoe brush can be a great idea. This helps to get any dirt, dust, or other debris off your shoes that could get caught in the polish. After using a brush, you'll be able to get much better results from your shoe polish.
Generally speaking, a horsehair shoe brush is a good option, but you'll want to make sure you get the right brush for your specific shoes. It can be a great tool to have around and is more important than many people might think!
Clean your shoes
One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your shoes is to clean them regularly. This keeps them looking great and keeps the material they're made from in good shape. There are a variety of cleaning methods depending on what your shoes are made out of.
For example, with leather shoes, in particular, you'll want to use the horsehair shoe brush to get rid of any surface dust or debris. Then follow that up by wiping the shoe down with a damp, warm cloth or sponge. After that, you'll want to use your waterproofing product. Shoe polish doesn't need to be applied every time if you clean your shoes fairly often, but you will want to use it about once a month to keep the leather in good shape.
Leather soles need to be cared for just as you care for the leather upper. “Taps” can be fitted by a cobbler to protect your soles from constant contact with the ground, and the shock absorbed when walking.
Occasionally, you might need to replace the soles just as you would replace the tires on your car. The upper part of your dress shoes tends to last up to four times longer than the soles, so it will probably be necessary to replace the soles at some point. This is also going to help you to stay more comfortable while wearing them!
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]]>Shoes are men's wardrobe staples and an essential part of our everyday attire. No matter what the occasion, weather, or dress code, shoes are something we'll all wear every day of our lives. The type of footwear we select is usually determined by the style of clothes and the circumstances we're dressing for.
The most standard men’s shoe is the dress shoe. The dress shoe is designed and intended to be worn for smart-casual, business-formal, formal, and special events. But as the times and trends change, classic men’s dress shoes have found their way into everyday outfit combinations and styles.
No matter the style, all shoes have similar parts: The upper part consisting of a vamp, the front part of the shoe and the quarters that cover the back side of the foot. The bottom part is called the sole and may consist of one or several layers of leather, natural rubber, or some artificial material.
The first thing that defines a good dress shoe is the material from which it's made. The most common material for making men’s dress shoes is leather, but there are also non-leather men’s dress shoes available. Some of the more expensive ones even have leather soles. A more sensible choice for durability are soles made from natural or artificial rubber.
The classic dress shoe is made from several pieces of leather carefully stitched together that may or may not have some brogue details on them like punched patterns along with the stitching. Now, not all leather shoes are considered to be dress shoes. Every modern man should know the difference and get the dress shoe styles for men that are appropriate for the occasion.
There are several types of men’s dress shoes, and we'll explain them each in reverse order of “dressiness.” From the most formal to the most casual men’s dress shoes.
The primary feature that distinguishes men’s dress shoes is their manner of fastening. We should mention that these aren't the only styles of men’s dress shoes, but they're the most popular ones worn by men around the world.
The most formal men’s dress shoe is the classic Oxford shoe. This design is characterized by subtle lines and a closed lace-up system. The classic Oxford style dress shoe has a low heel and no details or decorations. The more high-end or bespoke Oxford dress shoes have leather soles.
The Oxford dress shoe doesn’t have much decoration and has a simple polished glossy or matte finish. While they come in several colors, the most formal Oxford dress shoes are usually in black, highly polished (patent) leather finish with no embellishments.
While in most cases, these kinds of black dress shoes are pretty mellow in their design, you can find some that are a little brighter and livelier. In some cases, they can have more of a shine, come in unique colors or feature styles that appear more like alligator skin.
Depending on your personal tastes, there can be a large variety of choices out there that should provide something for everyone. Just make sure you have the perfect outfit to match the shoes you select!
This type of dress shoe is similar to the Oxford but is considered less formal. While Oxford dress shoes have closed lacing, Derbies have the eyelets on the top of the vamp, giving them an open-lacing system. Standard Derbies usually come in black or brown.
When you don't need to take your formal dressing to the max, Derbies can be a great option. They allow you to look classy while offering some of the comfort features you might find in a pair of tennis shoes. They can be an ideal option for events and at work where a full suit isn't required.
You can also find these shoes in more basic designs, as well as those that feature the addition of a brogue texture. This can allow for a few more options, allowing people with different tastes to find what they need.
Another style of shoe, based on the classic Oxford men’s dress shoe, the brogue shoe, or wingtip shoe, is considered a business-appropriate dress shoe. The top cap distinguishes the brogue shoe. While they come in many shoe colors, the most popular ones are black and several shades of brown. They're less formal than the Oxfords or Derbies and are usually worn in a business environment.
There's a decent variety to the kinds of wingtip shoes you can find, from those with just a small touch of the brogue design to some with more elaborate decoration. If you're looking into this style of shoe, then it's important to keep in mind where you plan on wearing them and what you'll want to wear them with. It's a good idea to not go too over the top with the decoration.
Another style of men’s dress shoes, monks don’t have laces and are closed by a single or double strap with a buckle. The classic monk dress shoe is considered as formal business attire due to its wider heel and buckle. Today the monk dress shoe is usually worn by more stylishly daring people.
As the name dictates, these shoes did begin with olden-day monks who wanted to find an alternative to the traditional sandals. They can often be a excellent choice for those who are keen on avoiding shoelaces that may need to be retied multiple times throughout the day. You can also find these shoes in the brogue style, much like many other options out there.
The classic loafer dress shoe is one of the least formal and most laid-back styles of footwear. These are put on by simply slipping them on your feet, as they don't have laces or buckles. Loafers are considered more business formal rather than fully formal attire.
If you don't want shoelaces and aren't a fan of the buckled look, these are a great way to go. They offer an easy, great-looking style that you can easily put on or take off. They also come in a pretty decent variety of designs to ensure that everyone gets what they're looking for. If you have an event that doesn't require the most formal option, this style of shoe can be a fantastic way to go!
The classic men’s boot, the Chelsea boot is another trendy design. Chelsea boots come in a variety of colors and with many possible details. However, the classic formal Chelsea dress boot is usually without any decorations or brogue details and is generally in the black leather finish.
These are a great option for those looking for a little more coverage. They travel further up the ankle, offering a bit more stability than other types of shoes. They're sometimes also offered in some more durable designs for those who require a little more foot safety without having to sacrifice a classy look. There are also laced and slip-on options to fit the needs of just about everyone.
Men’s dress shoes are usually in colors such as black, dark brown, brown, burgundy, chestnut, cordovan, or white. While dress shoes come in many different colors, those mentioned above are the most recognized and most worn by men across the world.
Considering that the dress shoe is usually combined with a suit, dress slacks or a tuxedo, the black or brown shoe are most likely to be chosen for this type of wear. Be careful while you're shopping for your dress shoes to ensure you select a color that will work well with the clothing options you'll be wearing.
Back in the day, a gentleman needed to be dressed appropriately for every occasion, and it was rare to see someone break the style rules. In the 1800s in Scotland, the classic men’s boot was slowly replaced by lower-cut shoes, and the Oxfords were born. Classic attire was fashionably paired with shoes and other details, and this gave way to a trend, and that trend has continued until today.
When selecting men's formal attire, remember to prioritize simplicity and elegance and choose accordingly. You can confidently wear any of the dress shoes mentioned above around the office. However, when faced with a formal event like the opera or a wedding, you can't go wrong with the classic Oxford dress shoe in black patent leather.
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]]>Think military perfection, and a glossy shine on your brogues, that will make you stand out from others. Your dress shoes are an investment shoe – and you need to take care of the leather. Shoe leather is animal hide that, left uncared for, will crack and dry out over time.
Treat the leather with respect, and you'll be rewarded tenfold. You can't beat the impression of wearing your favorite outfit paired with well-polished dress shoes.
Your dress shoes will, through regular use, develop scuff marks, and the polish and color will fade. Leather is a natural product and will degrade over time if you don’t maintain it. For example, if you left your leather dress shoes in a damp place, there may be mold starting to form.
Do I have to clean them first? Before polishing? Can’t I just quickly wipe them with a cloth, and get on it with it? No, you can't.
There are several leather shoe shine kits on the market. Prices vary greatly. Be sure to see exactly what you're getting, for the cost -packages range from $25 to $100.
It's worth investing in a quality kit, as you'll use it for a lifetime. The more expensive shoe shine valet kits come with both cleaning materials and polishing equipment, inside a travel case. These can be monogrammed with your initials, and are useful to have when you travel.
Generally, your shoe shine kit needs to contain: cream shoe polish, wax polish, applicators, a horsehair brush, and a buffing cloth.
It's a good idea to buy a leather conditioner of some kind, such as saddle soap, leather conditioner or leather oil. Keep an old t-shirt, or some soft clothes in this kit too.
Hot water and soap can be used to clean your dress shoes, or, you may need to use something a little stronger. Depending on the climate that you live in, you can develop a salt build up on your leather shoes (snow).
The second problem you may have is that you may have too much waxy polish on your dress shoes. If you have a buildup of wax polish, it can be removed by soaking several cotton balls in nail polish remover and gently wiping over the layers.
Dilute two parts water, with one part of vinegar, to make an acidic solution to remove salts that have built up on the shoe. Make sure that the shoes are completely dry before applying any polish. Leave them to dry for at least 20 minutes.
You'll need to use ample space to clean your shoes. You need to work in a well-lit area so that you can see precisely how much polish you're putting on, etc.
The area that you're working on needs to be protected too. Put down newspapers or an old towel.
Be sure to protect your good clothes. Polish will stain! Remember to wear old clothes to do this job.
You don’t want to get polish on your shoelaces. Remember that polish will also stain the stitching of your shoes. Don't use a color cream polish if your stitching is a contrasting color to your dress shoe. If this is the case, preferably use a neutral polish.
Your dress shoes need to be clean before you can polish them. Remove dust and surface grime that has built up. You can use your shoe cleaning brush to brush off the dirt, or you can use a damp cloth. (Hot soapy water).
Don't apply too much water to leather. Simply wipe dirt off, and assess your shoes. Are there tough stains? Or blotches of polish?
If this is the case, then make either the vinegar solution or soak balls of cotton wool with nail polish remover and clean off those marks. Be gentle.
‘’Feed Me, Seymour.”
Before you can apply polish to your shoes, the leather needs reviving. Leather can crack, and dry out, and by feeding the leather, you're extending the life of your dress shoes.
You can apply saddle soap to your dress shoes with a damp cloth. Saddle soap contains lanolin and beeswax, which will moisturize, and protect the leather.
You can apply a leather conditioning product, or you can use an oil, specially made for leather. These will help your shoes to retain their flexibility. Leave for at least 20 minutes to soak into the leather.
Apply either a colored cream polish that's the same shade as your shoes or a neutral polish. Allow to dry, and buff off with your horsehair brush. Be sure to work over your newspapers, and to use firm strokes.
Once the color has settled on your dress shoes, you can apply either one, or two, layers of the wax polish. Wax polish has beeswax and turpentine, and will also help to protect the leather.
Use an old t-shirt, or soft cloth, to ‘wax on, wax off,’ and rub with small circular movements. Buff your dress shoes with your horsehair shoe brush. They're now on their way to greatness. However, there's one more stage.
This is known as the ‘spit shine’ military method that will give you the winning edge. Apply small drops of water to your dress shoes, with your finger.
Just sprinkle a few drops, and use your polish cloth, to shine your shoes. Let them dry for 20 minutes. Now repeat this three times. Yes, three times. Leave them overnight.
You're nearly there. Take a soft cloth and give your dress shoes a final buff. The shine should look spectacular. Congratulations, you've now mastered how to polish dress shoes. Enjoy.
<p>The post How To Polish Dress Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How to Lace Your Shoes to Slip-On (Guide to the Right Way) first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Whether you want to be able to run out the door faster when you’re getting ready for work in the morning or you're just tired of having to lace up your sneakers on the way out the door, there’s a way you can use your time getting ready just a little more efficiently. That's by learning how to lace your shoes so they slip on!
While this practice works best with shoes that are slightly more loose-fitting than with a pair of running shoes, learning how to do this can save you a little bit of time and frustration every day, and that bit of time can often make a difference when you're in a hurry.
One of the first ways to lace your shoes so they slip on is to army lace them. While the lacing will look somewhat like a standard way of tying your shoes, you’ll actually be ensuring that there's a bit more flexibility in the lacing so that you can easily slip your shoes on and off with ease.
Here’s how you can do it:
That’s it. You’ve now army laced your shoes!
Were those steps still a little too confusing? Don’t worry. This video will make sense of it all:
So, what is it about this type of lacing that makes it easier to slip on your shoes?
When you lace your shoes up this way, the shoelaces cross on the inside rather than the outside, and there's a bit more room for slack in the way that the shoe can stretch because of it. Sliding on your shoe becomes easier because of this extra space in the shoe, so you can slide your shoe on and go in next-to-no-time at all!
This type of lacing is best for thick leather boots that don't flex very easily, but you can try this lacing out on any type of shoes that you want to be able to put on quickly!
If you want to lace dress shoes or a similar pair of flat shoes so that they can be slipped on easily when you’re getting ready, you might want to try the more professional and clean-looking straight bar lacing technique instead. This type of lacing looks excellent and is easy to do. Plus, your foot will slide right in!
Here's how to bar lace shoes:
That’s all it takes to straight bar lace your dress shoes!
If you need an example of how this type of lacing looks and are interested in finding out about some different shoe lacing techniques, this video is a big help:
Now you can try out a few more styles of lacing up dress shoes! As you can see, it doesn’t have to be difficult to lace leather dress shoes in a way that you can easily slip your shoe on and off without any trouble.
Read also: Are Dress Shoes Non Slip?
Once you learn how to lace shoes so they slip on, you can save yourself a bit of time and frustration every day. Sure, lacing shoes doesn't take that long to do, but it can be just long enough to slow you down when you're trying to hurry out the door.
Besides saving time, it can be nice not to have to go through the issue of lacing shoes every day. With these methods for lacing shoes tips, you’re able to make your life just a little bit simpler. In the end, who doesn’t want that kind of convenience?
<p>The post How to Lace Your Shoes to Slip-On (Guide to the Right Way) first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post Dress Shoes for Overpronation first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>People who've been running long enough might have dealt with various pains in their lower back, hips, knees, and feet. Although many factors can cause these conditions, improper use of shoes can contribute to their development. Improper biomechanics of the body plays a detrimental role in developing severe conditions. Since your feet are among the most used and exhausted parts of your body every day, they're prone to pains and fatigue.
One of the possible results of excessive walking and running is overpronation. This condition is not so serious as to be life-threatening; however, it's essential to understand this problem so you'll know how to deal with it.
Before we discuss how to avoid this condition, let us first find out what overpronation is and how it's developed. Overpronation is a condition where feet continue to roll inward when they should be pushing off forward. It usually occurs in individuals with fallen arches and flat feet. This foot condition often leads to shin splints and ankle pain.
Overpronation is one of the most common postural problems that people develop as they grow old. From having weak legs to wearing unsupportive shoes, there are a variety of factors that cause the soft foot tissue structure to loosen joints and later allow the foot bones to shift. Pronation abnormalities may also increase the risk of having injuries during workouts and sports activities because pronation affects how we run and stand. It also serves a purpose in our body weight distribution when we're moving.
To treat severe cases of overpronation, people usually seek help from physical therapists. In cases where therapy is necessary, licensed professionals evaluate the person’s pronation problems and create customized therapy programs based on their findings. Overpronation is not as alarming as other types of health conditions. Resolving this issue is essential because our feet are the parts of our body that absorb any shock during movement.
To determine if you're an overpronator, do the following test for overpronation symptoms.
1. Look at the bottom of your shoes. If you notice excessive wear at the inner edge of your soles, you have pronation problems. People with this type of condition may see that the inner sides of their shoes have excessive wear and tear. This is because instead of being straight, the feet of overpronators are flat and continue to roll inward.
2. Get your feet wet and step on a brown grocery bag. If you see your feet are outlined when you put your entire weight on your feet, then you are an overpronator.
3. Take a pair of shoes that you've been wearing for months, put them on a flat surface. If you see that the heels are tilted in, you have pronation problems. The heels are tilted in because you’re wearing the shoes more on their inner side.
You might be wondering how overpronation is developed. Look at the list below to find some common causes of pronation abnormalities.
Individuals who are suffering from overpronation may experience the symptoms below.
If you have pronation problems, it's important to buy the right shoes to make sure your foot condition will not worsen. There’s a wide variety of men's and women's dress shoes for pronation.
Those shoes are specially designed for people with pronation problems, so buying the right pair will tremendously help you lessen the pain caused by pronation abnormalities. Also, the shoes are made to provide additional support to make it easier for overpronators to walk and move.
Wearing the wrong pair of shoes will cause discomfort to overpronators. Luckily for them, there are a variety of shoes available on the market. People can buy elegant and classy shoes without compromising comfort.
They no longer need to worry about buying stylish shoes that may worsen their foot condition. Footwear products for overpronators are made with two essential purposes. First, to fulfill people’s need for fashionable footwear and secondly, to provide them shoes that will support their arches and added comfort to their ankles in every step.
So whether you’re looking for an elegant pair of shoes for your corporate meeting or stylish dress shoes for overpronation, there will be proper shoes in the market. There are a lot of good shoe brands that are not only stylish and offer excellent support; they're also affordable.
Caring for your feet is as important as caring for your other body parts. Since our feet are the most overused parts of our bodies, they're often exposed to various types of injuries. This is the reason why buying quality footwear is necessary regardless of your work or activities. Choosing well made shoes not only helps to make your feet safe, but it will also help protect your feet from possible painful conditions caused by inferior quality footwear.
To avoid overpronation, always make sure that you wear shoes with firm heels and a good arch support system. You should also wear the right shoes for the right situation. There are a wide variety of shoe selections available, so you won’t find it difficult to find a pair for your specific needs.
There are soft yet sturdy shoes for athletes, comfortable yet firm footwear for busy executives, and stylish yet durable dress shoes for special occasions. The market has a lot to offer if you’re looking to buy footwear for foot injuries or even dress shoes for overpronation. Next time you're shopping for shoes, ensure you purchase something that can keep your feet healthy.
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]]><p>The post What are Loafers? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>It might seem like a simple enough question, but there is much controversy around what counts as Loafer style shoes, and today they're quite often generically used to describe no lace shoes that are slip-on and low heeled. Loafer shoes are, in fact, the most common design of all the slip-on style shoes and are also sometimes referred to as a slipper in American culture.
Loafer dress shoes are distinct from traditional lace-up shoes, popularized by the Brogue and the Oxford, which have more formal origins and are usually worn as dress shoes. So let’s try and get to grips with today’s topic of discussion: What are loafers?
It’s a little-known fact, but the humble Loafer originated in Scandinavia and is derived from footwear worn by local fisherman. Taking two pieces of leather, they worked these into a comfortable and practical, hardy piece of functional footwear that was fashioned together and held in place with another strip of leather.
This developed into the slip-on style Penny Loafer so popular today with both men and women, but it went through various iterations along the way, including at the hands of the high-end fashion house, Gucci.
Today the Loafer certainly isn’t the footwear of choice for fisherman, but they're much loved by fashionistas the whole world over for being comfortable ladies shoes, somewhat sensible, but always an elegant piece of modern footwear. It lends itself to quite a preppy look, and it works great with a tailored suit, a pair of chinos or smart jeans, but also with a pencil skirt for a thoroughly modern work outfit.
The slip-on dress shoe was also incredibly popular with the British and European aristocracy who used it as a sophisticated and elegant lounge shoe. They had versions with decorative hardware detailing, like gold buckles and all kinds of ornamental and flamboyant attachments or embellishments.
There are many different types of slip-on shoes, the Loafer or Penny Loafer being just one of them. The other trendy style, often for women, is the Moccasin. They're derived from North American culture, rather than Scandinavia, and was historically used as a practical hunting shoe.
The Moccasin shoe is distinguished from the Loafer in that it typically features only decorative lacing. Traditionally, a Loafer would have been constructed from leather, whereas a Moccasin would have been made from softer suede.
There is much crossover today in the slip-on shoe category, and the term Loafer is often used to describe pure style Loafers, and Moccasins, or “driving shoes” which are another modern interpretation of the original classic style Penny Loafer from the 1900s.
Slip-on style shoes continue to be a popular choice for both men and women, and a wide range of professionals wear them because they provide a comfortable and practical everyday piece of formal footwear, especially for anyone on their feet for large parts of the day.
Leather continues to be a favorite fabric, of which the majority of Loafers are constructed, but with the rise in popularity of the Loafer and the introduction of this shoe to the modern catwalk, you will also find velvet, exotic animal leathers, and canvas styled Loafers.
Who doesn’t wish they had the budget to invest in the iconic Gucci Loafer? These days many of the high-end fashion labels are introducing their own take on the Loafer, ensuring that this form of footwear is a popular off-duty choice for many a supermodel.
The introduction of the Gucci Loafer propelled this slip-on to another level in the style stakes, and the Loafer became synonymous with privilege, power, and prestige. It’s the shoe of choice for many a high-powered boardroom executive as well as an off-duty, casual staple for pop stars and supermodels, as well as college students.
It’s easy to see why the Loafer has garnered so much positive acclaim and is such a well-loved shoe. It combines versatility with comfort in what is a very practical but at the same time timeless looking shoe. It can look just as elegant worn with a suit as it can with a dress and has been a wardrobe staple since the 1930s when it firmly established itself as a quintessential shoe for both genders.
If you want to look smart in the boardroom but also be comfortable when you hot foot it to the bar later for drinks, then the Loafer is undoubtedly an intelligent choice. A well-chosen Loafer can instantly pull together and complete many a fashionable ensemble.
You are no longer limited to a black or burnished brown leather Loafer. Thanks to the rise in popularity and the high-end designer fashion houses picking up on this classic style, you can now get Loafers in all kinds of bright colors and textures. You can purchase a Loafer that will see you through all the various trends and seasons.
Everything from a hardy leather pair perfect for the winter months, to lightweight canvas constructed casual Loafers that will help you transition into spring. The Loafer really can be worn with everything from a suit to a sundress and is an incredibly versatile and popular choice of slip-on shoe for both sexes.
Men in the workplace are more likely to stick with the traditional brown and black leather styles whereas women are more daring with everything from velvet to suede, rubber, canvas, and even exotic animal prints and leathers being available.
Nothing is more elegant or sophisticated than a woman in a pair of slip on Loafer shoes. Forget about your stilettos, those high heeled pumps, or chunky wedges. If you really want to look contemporary, sophisticated but of course be comfortable too, then a pair of Loafers should be one of the staple footwear pieces in both your daily work and your off-duty, casual wardrobe.
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]]><p>The post How To Tie Loafers first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>This might seem like a pretty obvious question. You just tie them in a knot, right? Wrong! Tying your lace up loafers so that they stay perfectly in place might not be quite as straightforward as you first envisioned. For a start, the chances are that the laces will be made of a matching or contrasting leather, rather than fabric, which makes them that little bit harder to secure.
It’s also worth pointing out that when we’re talking about how to tie loafers, what we're specifically talking about is how to tie Moccasin style shoes. A Penny Loafer, for example, has no loafer laces at all, although it might have some decorative hardware detailing. All in all, the question should be: how to tie Moccasin style loafer laces.
Unless you trained in the merchant navy or you did a course in knot-tying at one of your after-school clubs or summer camps, chances are while you might know the names of various common knots, you'll have no idea how to tie them successfully. So we're going to walk you through some of the most common lace knots and how to use them to effectively and securely tie your Moccasin style lace up loafers.
This is a handy knot to learn how to tie, as it’s practical for all kinds of scenarios and perfect for your stiffer Loafer laces. You start by crossing the left lace over the right and wrapping them around each other to create your first starting knot, which is the necessary foundation for this style.
Next, you need to create what looks like two little bunny ears with your laces by forming loops on both sides: the left and right. Hold the two loops side by side for a quick moment to check that they match up and are roughly of equal size. You don’t want crooked bunny ears now, do you?
In the next stage, you're going to fold the left loop over and around your equally sized right loop. Next, with gentle pressure, pull it through the hole that forms between the two loops, but don’t go ahead and tighten the laces up just yet.
Next, you're going to fold the right loop over the back so that it crosses under the left loop, and feed it back through the same middle hole that you just fed your left loop through. Do another quick visual check to ensure that your loops are still equally proportioned.
Now you can go right ahead and tighten up those laces so that they form an elegant and secure, evenly structured and tidy looking bow. Even if your Moccasin has slippery waxed leather laces, if you tie them this way, they shouldn’t come undone, and it’s a style that looks very neat and tidy. It looks especially nice on leather or canvas Loafers.
This is another style of knot that's worth learning how to perfect, as it works well with leather Moccasin laces. It’s a very decorative looking lace, so it might not be to everyone’s style and taste, but it's very effective at keeping laces neatly in place and preventing them from getting in your way and unraveling when you're walking.
In this technique, you don’t start with the usual starting knot. The two ends are dealt with independently and never secured together, so you exactly replicate the method of tying a boat shoe knot on both sides.
Start by forming a loop with your right lace using about one-third of the lace itself and leave the rest of the lace to dangle at the side. With this technique, you won’t be able to use the laces to tighten and secure your shoes in place, so make sure that they fit well and can be worn as a slip-on without needing to be tightened in the traditional sense using a shoelace.
Next, you need to wrap the end of the lace around the loop you created and start to form a tight coil around the loop in any direction. Make sure that the spiral is tight and neat so that it looks stylish. Just continue to wrap and coil the lace in this way until you reach the top of the lace and only have a small tail left. Then you need to feed the short end through the top of your loop and give it a good tug to tightly secure in place.
Use precisely the same technique on your other lace so that you have two wholly symmetrical and coiled boat shoe knots. Like we said earlier, this knot is more about style rather than practicality. It’s a decorative knot rather than a functional one, but it adds a lot of character and personality to the overall look of your fashionable Loafers.
If you prefer to keep it old school and classic, then there's nothing better than a standard knot for securely holding your laces in place and giving your Moccasins an elegant and refined finish. As with the first Seaman’s knot we discussed, your starting position for this technique is to create that basic starting knot.
This is, in fact, the starting point for many different types of knots. So if you can master this, you'll have a piece of good foundational knowledge. Starting with either the left or right lace, depending on which you feel more comfortable handling, form a loop then wrap the lace around the back to create a second loop.
When you have two loops, slightly pull them together to tighten and secure in place. This is the standard knot used to tie almost all shoelaces, so you will no doubt have learned this method as a child. It’s not as secure as the double slip knot, but it’s easy to execute without you needing to refer to a knot guide for assistance! Just be aware that you might find yourself bending down more frequently to re-tie those pesky unraveling laces!
So there you have it. Three almost foolproof techniques that should help you to tie your lace up Loafer moccasin shoes in a neat, stylish, and secure way.
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]]><p>The post What Dress Shoes to Buy? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Dress shoes are one of the most important purchases you can make for yourself. There are plenty of places you need to wear dress shoes in order to make a good impression. If you work in any professional setting or are seeking a job in the workforce, you'll need quality footwear.
If you're attending a formal event such as a wedding or a funeral, you'll need formal shoes. They're integral to a professional suit and are going to project a more professional appearance to your boss and coworkers.
The main difficulty is there are so many types of dress shoes to choose from it can be hard to know witch pair will be the most appropriate for your intended use. To help in your search to find what dress shoes to buy, we've included dress shoe reviews of several options below.
We believe these are some of the best affordable, quality dress shoes available.
First off, these shoes come in the traditional style of black, as with many dress shoes nowadays. The great thing about black dress shoes is they tend to go with almost everything, so you don't have to worry about pairing them to the rest of your outfits.
These shoes are made out of smooth leather that's also very durable. They have a rubberized sole, perfect for not marking up floors. This sole also provides extra grip while walking, so you don't need to worry about slipping or falling.
There's a perforated seam detailing on the shoes, leaving them with a high-end look.
They're airport friendly, so you never have to take them off while going through airport security. The footbed has been fully cushioned so your feet will be comfortable throughout the day.
There are many shoe colors to choose from with this pair. They come in black, brown, dark brown, and multiple shades of black and grey. There are over six colors to choose from through Amazon, which should give you a new level of customization when it comes to purchasing dress shoes.
The heel height on these shoes measures just 1” off the ground, giving you a bit more confidence without being too high that they're uncomfortable.
The first thing that stuck out to us about these Rockport women's pump dress shoes were their classy look. You can either order them in black, the most common for a woman’s dress shoe, or in an almond sort of color. We recommend trying to have both, for various outfits you may want to put together.
The insole of the shoe is made out of ethylene-vinyl acetate, which is comfortable for your feet.
There are multiple sizes and widths to choose with these Rockport Women's Dress Pumps.
This guide is just a starting place to springboard you into your search for finding which dress shoes to buy. All of the above models are made out of durable materials and are comfortable. They should set the standard of what you'll want to be looking for.
We wish you the best on your purchase!
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]]><p>The post How to Clean Dress Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Every man and woman needs to have a variety of dress shoes to choose from. Whether you're attending a formal event, such as a wedding or a funeral, or if you're employed in a professional work environment, you'll want to have an assortment of quality footwear.
Sneakers and running shoes are not acceptable in many workplaces, and it's crucial to your image wear shoes that look decent.
Dress shoes can look very worn if you're using the same pair every day. They tend to get dirty, especially if they're made out of leather. Then your once beautiful looking dress shoes can appear neglected and unattractive.
This is why cleaning dress shoes is essential. Like any wardrobe article, you need to wash, clean, and dry them to reduce smells and make them look new again. Why should shoes be any different?
We have included a straightforward process on how to clean shoes, so you can get them looking like new again. For you to stay organized, we recommend that you buy a shoe shine kit. This is going to be your new best friend.
Rather than separately purchasing every item you need, shoe shine kits are going to come with all the tools and resources at a lower price. Every kit should come with the polish, brushes for the shoes, a brush with horse hair, a buffing cloth (even though you can use any white handkerchief or old t-shirt), and a case to carry all of these items.
Many shoe brands have their own specific shining kit that will benefit the shoes of that brand. Check the dress shoe brand that you own and see if there's a particular kit they sell that will complement your shoe even further.
Once you have the kit, you need to determine the area you're going to use to shine your shoes. This is important because you need proper lighting and you need an area free from dirt and dust.
The shoe polish will stain items, so keep this space away from anything you don't want to be stained in the process. We recommend maybe doing this in a well-lit garage. Lay down a tarp, newspapers, or garbage bags on the floor before you start the process.
Next, it's time to prepare the shoe. The first thing to do is remove the laces. Once that is done, you'll want to clean all the exterior dirt and grime that's on the shoe.
We recommend using a horsehair brush that comes with a wooden handle. It should be able to buff the shoe and also wipe off any dirt.
For an added cleaning, take a cloth and add a little warm water and soap. You don't want the cloth to be very wet, so make sure it's rung out.
If you have polished the shoes before and want to get rid of the old polish, use nail polish remover to take it off.
If the shoe is leather, it's time to wash and condition the leather. There are many specialized products to do this, such as saddle soap, and it protects the leather and makes it look like new again.
There are also leather conditioners available on the market that you can apply easily.
When you polish the shoe, you're going to want to cover it with a generous amount of polish, using a shoe polish applicator brush to get it everywhere. You will then have to brush the shoe vigorously to remove all the excess polish that you don't need.
By following the guide above, you'll get your shoes looking like new again. You'll be amazed that by keeping up with the maintenance of your shoes, they're going to last longer and will save you money by not having to buy new pairs of shoes as often.
We recommend looking up tutorials on YouTube as well, if you're doing it for the first time, as having a visual guide will sometimes help you.
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]]>Getting your feet into a comfortable pair of men's dress shoes often seems like an impossible task. The first thing men think about when shopping for dress shoes is the pain and the discomfort they’ll feel as soon as they put the shoes on.
Although it's true that most dress shoes require a break- in period before they become totally comfortable and painless, this doesn’t mean that all dress shoes have to pinch and cause blisters.
If you’ve been wearing dress shoes that result in aching feet at the end of the day, chances are you’ve been wearing the wrong size. Aside from getting the correct size for your feet, you should also pay attention to the materials that make up your dress shoes.
The shoes material used in the making of your footwear has a huge impact on how comfortable they'll be. Knowing what type of material to choose will help reduce the chance of you getting an uncomfortable pair.
Here are the important parts of a dress shoe that require your attention.
Most, if not all dress shoes are made of leather, but low-quality leather tends to easily crack and crease. Plus, low-grade leather does not stretch as well as high-quality leather.
Check if the dress shoes are made using calfskin or any other type of high-quality leather to ensure that it can stretch well without cracking.
Most common heel heights run between .75 inches to 1 inch. Heels are usually made of rubber and give extra support for the back of the feet.
For dress shoes, a separate heel piece is the best choice because you can easily replace it when it wears down.
This is the part of the dress shoe that takes the most wear and tear. Most dress shoes have a rubberized sole to give it extra durability as well as traction.
A good quality, comfortable pair of dress shoes should have an excellent grip that allows you to walk comfortably and confidently on any surface.
The entire top part of the dress shoe or any kind of shoe is called the upper. One thing to take note of is how the upper is attached to the sole.
The best kind of dress shoes will have reinforced stitching or melting of the two parts to ensure the shoe is water-resistant.
The insoles are the cushioning part of the dress shoe that absorbs a lot of shock and pressure. This part is responsible for keeping your feet comfortably supported while wearing them.
The best types of insoles are those that are removable. This allows you to customize the height and the cushioning level of the insoles depending on your needs.
What are comfortable dress shoes good for if they aren’t versatile? Most dress shoes are an expensive purchase. This is why it's important to buy a pair that's both durable and comfortable to wear.
Here are some important things to consider when shopping for a new pair of dress shoes to ensure you get your money’s worth, also so your feet won’t hurt at the end of the day.
Don’t settle for shoes that hurt. Take time to look for a comfortable dress shoe you can wear for any occasion to save your feet from the pain and discomfort of a poorly made, ill-fitting pair.
<p>The post What Are The Most Comfortable Dress Shoes? first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How Should Dress Shoes Fit? | Learn What to Look For first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Many people struggle to find proper fit dress shoes that are comfortable, affordable, and stylish.
They seem to associate discomfort with wearing dress shoes when in truth, you can actually learn how dress shoes should fit to save your feet from pain and blisters. Plus, getting dress shoes that fit you properly can extend their life, which means you don’t have to keep buying new shoes every few months.
There are some telltale signs that your shoes don't fit you properly. Maybe the footwear you’re wearing isn’t the right size for your feet. Knowing these signs will help you determine whether you'll need to start to shop for new shoes soon:
Now that you know what signs to look out for to know that your shoes don't fit you properly, here are some tips you should consider when shopping for a new pair of dress shoes:
Shoe manufacturers don't always have a standard sizing chart, which means you can have different sizes depending on the brand of shoes you select.
Although this can be a challenge, you should already have a general idea on what size shoes you wear so you'll have a ballpark figure when you go shoe shopping. Many companies also offer size charts, which come in handy.
Most dress shoes are made with leather, a material that doesn't stretch a lot. If the shoes you buy don't fit you properly from the get-go, it's doubtful they'll fit with usage.
Try them on to see if they pinch; if they do, you’re better off with a bigger size.
Your feet expand throughout the day and buying shoes, or measuring your feet in the afternoon gives you a better idea of how big your feet really are. This leaves room in the shoes you choose for your feet to expand during the day.
It may come as a shock, but both your feet are seldom the same size. One foot will be slightly smaller than the other, and knowing this will help you know how dress shoes should properly fit.
Get the shoe size that accommodates the larger foot so that both feet will be comfortable.
Wearing dress shoes without socks is uncomfortable and unhygienic, so you have to take into account the space your socks will occupy. Try your dress shoes on for the first time while wearing a pair of socks you typically use.
This will give you a precise estimate of whether the shoes are still comfortable, even with socks on.
It's a myth that all dress shoes are uncomfortable and painful to wear. If you know what to look for when shopping for dress shoes, you'll find a pair that's comfortable to wear the entire day.
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]]>Why do my dress shoes squeak when I walk? Squeaky dress shoes can be both annoying and embarrassing. There's nothing quite as disappointing as having your favorite pair of expensive dress shoes develop a sharp, loud squeak, emitting from each step that you take.
The actual causes of squeaky shoes can be attributed to a number of problems.
From a troublesome insole to a damaged heel, there are many factors which can cause dress shoes to squeak. In this article, we’ll be looking at why dress shoes squeak by identifying the causes. We'll be presenting solutions for many common problems in order to stop squeaky shoes.
If the squeak is coming from a relatively new pair of dress shoes, then it's highly likely that they need to be broken in first. Put on your shoes and wear them around the house for a few days before wearing them out. Apply talcum powder and follow our other tips if necessary, but a few hours of breaking-in usually gets rid of any annoying squeaking sounds.
Check the heel of your dress shoes to feel if they are slightly loose. If this is the case, apply a drop of contact cement onto each side where the footwear meets the heel, holding it in place for a minute to set. Weigh down your shoe for at least twenty-four hours to give the cement ample time to dry and your squeak will be gone for good.
Squeaking can, at times, be caused by friction formed between the soles of your shoes and your insoles. If the liner is removable, remove it and sprinkle some baby powder, cornstarch or talcum powder into the bottom of your shoe. This will absorb the moisture which prevents less motion between the liner and sole, thus stopping squeaking in its tracks.
A powder can be just as useful for shoes which squeak on tiled or wooden surfaces. It can make your shoes slippery if the traction is not good, so take care when applying a bit of powder to the bottom of your shoes to prevent squeaking.
Another simple solution to prevent shoes from squeaking caused by insole friction is simply placing a paper towel or a dryer sheet into your shoes. Fold over a sheet or paper towel and place it between the insole and the sole of your shoe.
Dress shoe squeaking is often caused by the tongue rubbing against the inside of the shoe itself. Get yourself some fine-grained sandpaper or a nail file and sand the tongue down until it no longer rubs against your shoe. You can alternatively apply athletic tape instead.
Wrap the edges of the tongue of your shoe with athletic tape, effectively getting rid of the squeaking that arises when the tongue rubs against the inner.
Leather and synthetic leather shoes will begin to squeak if the natural oils present in the material has dried up. Unconditioned leather develops this problem frequently. Use as little oil as possible, opting for olive oil if possible but vegetable oil will work. You need to take extreme care not to stain your shoes.
Apply the oil with a dry cloth or paper towel and wipe off any excess. It's highly recommended that you put your shoes on a shoe tree after oiling so that they'll assume their original form once dried. Always leave your shoes overnight after oiling before wearing them again.
The most common place where a squeak starts is at the seams of a shoe. This is, therefore, the best place to begin applying oil.
If your dress shoes are made from patent leather instead of genuine leather, then it is possible that they will develop a squeak due to not correctly assuming the form of your feet. This happens most often with the heel.
Spray the inside and the outside of your shoe with a light layer of water using a spritzer. Inside and out need to be damp but not wet. Then proceed to wear your shoes until they dry and you should be free from your squeak for good. If not, repeat the process until the sound goes away.
If you are in the habit of wearing your shoes without socks, then it's likely that any squeaking arises from excess moisture build-up. Remove the inserts or insoles and leave your shoes to dry for at least 24 hours. Refrain from using a heater or dryer on leather as the leather will crack if the temperature is too high. Instead, leave them in a warm room which is free from humidity.
Another tip is to shove your shoes full of crumpled up newspaper and then leave them to dry. The newspaper will absorb any excess moisture. Replace the newspaper every few hours depending on how much moisture is present and use a shoe horn or shoe tree to help them resume their original form and contours.
At times water can become trapped between the layers of leather of your sole or the joins and seams of your shoes. The will result in a terrible squeaking sound which you can only get rid of by giving your shoes ample time to dry. If you do resort to drying them in front of a heater, which may be necessary to get rid of the trapped moisture completely, then apply a conditioning product to protect the appearance and longevity of your dress shoes.
At times the underside of your shoes will harden due to extended use. This can cause squeaking. If your shoes have been in use for a considerable duration, take some fine sandpaper and sand down the soles of your shoes slightly. Remove any hardened rubber or plastic without sanding too much that the shape itself is affected.
Leather shoes, in particular, are known to develop squeaking when their shoelaces begin to rub against the tongue. Apply leather conditioner to the tongue and shoelace grommets, or try some saddle soap. This will reduce the friction, make the leather supple, and get rid of the squeak caused by noisy laces.
Many shoes begin to squeak loudly on linoleum-style flooring and carpeted areas. If your squeak is coming from the bottom of the shoe and sanding down the hardened tread doesn't help, then you can give a rubber sole spray a try. Not only will applying rubber spray to the bottom of your shoe stop your squeaking, but it will also improve traction.
Before rushing off to buy a can of rubber sole spray, first, apply some duct tape to the underside of your shoe and see if it stops the sound. If it does, then a can of spray will definitely stop the squeak.
Any damage to your shoe can result in squeaking. Dress shoes with loose heels or soles will release an annoying squeak which worsens over time. Shoe glue or any good, strong adhesive, will work wonders to secure your sole should it be loose, while a cobbler should address any other issues.
If a brand-new pair of dress shoes begins to squeak shortly after purchasing, then it's best to consult the shoe manufacturers customer support for a return. Dress shoes should not squeak straight out the box. Squeaking is an issue which develops from wear-and-tear and a lack of maintenance.
Most manufacturers will be more than happy to replace your pair of shoes with a new set that doesn't squeak. Be sure to contact your seller before attempting to fix the problem yourself, as this could void your warranty.
At times, cheaply manufactured dress shoes will have a thin layer of black paint present on their soles. This is supposed to help with traction, but instead often causes squeaking shoes. The only answer is to wear the shoes until the paint is worn down or to remove the paint using a piece of light sandpaper.
The soles of your shoes may, at times, also become dried out, resulting in a squeak when walking on highly polished flooring. In this case, an oil-based lubricant such as WD40 applied to the rubber sole of your shoe will resolve the annoyance for good. All it takes is a few applications. Just make sure that you don’t wear your shoes immediately afterward. Give them some time to dry.
<p>The post How to Stop Dress Shoes from Squeaking first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How to Prevent Creases in Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Many wearers find the comfort of their dress shoes will far outlast their appearance. Without proper care and routine shoe maintenance, your shoes will eventually crease, crack, and mar. Dress shoes which use very soft leather or soft synthetics are the most susceptible to shoe creasing, yet even they can be kept in good condition with just a little care.
Here we’ll show you exactly how to stop leather shoes from creasing. A minimal amount of effort will keep them looking as good as new.
Leather shoes will eventually crease; there's no stopping it. One can, however, prolong their original condition and uphold the “new” appearance of a pair of shoes by taking good care of them and choosing proper fit dress shoes. The majority of creases arise from poorly fitting shoes.
Even perfect fit shoes will eventually crease regardless of their quality. Carrying more weight as to whether or not your dress shoes will crease is the distinctive design of the shoe itself. The quality of leather rarely affects the prominence of creases and how quickly they arise.
As a general rule-of-thumb, plain toed whole-cut shoes are the most likely to show prominent creases. Semi capped toe brogues are a good midway choice when it comes to not displaying marring creases, with full capped toe brogues being the best. Wholecut leather shoes take more tension from the foot as there are no sections to distribute pressure; therefore, creases form quicker and are more noticeable.
A brogue generally has four to five sections joined that comprise the total design of the shoe, giving more areas for tension to be disbursed, thus, less shoe creasing.
Here are a few great ways to keep your leather or leather-and-material dress shoes in tip-top condition, without needing to spend a fortune. A good pair of dress shoes will last for many years without creasing or cracking if you make sure to carry out the following shoe maintenance techniques and crease removal solutions.
The upper of your shoe should always be as high a quality as possible. The longer the upper holds the form of your foot, the better the bit. This leaves less space for prominent creasing to occur. You'll notice that the faster your upper degrades and wears down, the more rapid the appearance of creases.
Selecting the correct upper is determined almost entirely by the dimensions of your foot. Be sure to choose a design which appears appropriate for the breadth and incline of your foot-to-ankle.
Cedar wood shoe trees are readily available to insert into your shoes when not in use. Within roughly two months of use, the leather will be retrained to its original shape, smoothing out all creases. This solution also comes with the added benefit of eliminating odors thanks to the antimicrobial nature of cedar wood, while actively absorbing any moisture which may be latent in your shoe.
If you can’t find or can’t afford cedar shoe trees, any shoe stretchers which tightly fits the shoe will suffice.
A scalding hot iron can damage leather, so take extra care when using this technique. Heat your iron to a moderate temperature of between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover your shoe with a damp cloth and then iron on top of it to reshape the form of the leather.
As the creases are ironed out, it's highly recommended that you place cedar shoe trees in your shoes so that your leather adapts and strengthens the new form to memory.
Many creases form from the stress placed on the leather originating at the heel when fitting a shoe. The pressure can even cause cracking over time, making a shoe horn invaluable to preserving leather and other synthetic materials.
A shoe tree is an upgrade on a shoe horn which is adjustable to fill the whole of your shoe, thus creating tension upon the leather or synthetic which smooths out creases, returning it to its original contours. A variety of shoe trees are available ranging from cheap spring shoe trees without a whole heel, to mechanical advanced plastic shoe trees which feature adjustable stem pieces.
They're incredibly effective, with even a basic shoe tree working wonders to prevent the formation of creases. However, if you don’t have one handy, proceed to the newspaper and a wet cloth technique, as detailed next.
If you notice any slight creases forming, then clean the dirt off with a mild detergent and water. Don’t wet the shoes too much, but get most of the dirt off. Gather and scrunch up a bunch of paper or fabric and force them into your shoe.
Make sure to cram the paper in, causing the shoe to expand to its original shape. Proceed to lay a wet cloth over each shoe, pressing down the fabric so that it molds to the contours of the shoe. All you need to do then is steam iron your pair of shoes, and your creases will be a thing of the past.
Keeping just two of the same style of shoes will allow you to effectively rotate them, keeping both in a far better condition than if only one pair were worn on a day to day basis. All shoes should rest for at least 24 hours after use to allow them to dry out and air, reducing the rate at which prominent creases will form. If at all possible, be sure to fit your shoe with a shoe tree while not in use to guarantee that the shoe will retain its appearance for a long time.
Regardless of the cost of your dress shoes, each pair will require some light maintenance to ensure good longevity and a stylish, crease-free appearance. All shoes will eventually crease, but if you implement the advice listed above, you can rest assured that any creases which do form, will not be prominent. Even inexpensive shoes can withstand the test of time, given a little attention.
<p>The post How to Prevent Creases in Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]><p>The post How to Maintain Leather Dress Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
]]>Shoes don't need to be shined daily, weather depending. Generally, the most often that wearers should shine their shoes to maintain an untainted appearance is once a week. Oiling is done less frequently as it can gradually degrade the leather, despite giving it a temporary improvement.
Given regular light maintenance, a good pair of dress shoes will last you for many years. Here we’ll be taking you through the steps required to maintain leather dress shoes.
To give yourself peace of mind, it's best to take care of your own leather shoe maintenance, rather than taking them to a cobbler or professional shoe shiner.
Certain types of leather can be extremely temperamental regarding oils and polishing, making it far better to treat your own shoes. To put together your own shoe shining kit, you'll need five essential pieces of shoe shine equipment. Here we’ll be discussing each.
You need at least one wide shoe shine brush and one dauber style brush, for use with a leather cleaning agent. The polish gets applied with the dauber, while the wide shine brush is used to brush off dirt before applying the polish, and to rub up a shine. A separate dauber brush is needed for every color of polish which you use.
A soft shoe polishing cloth is needed to apply cleaners, conditioners, and creams to your shoes. A cloth will also be used to buff up a shine, polishing your dress shoes to a near mirror finish.
There are special shoe shine clothes readily available; however, one truly doesn’t need more than an old cotton T-shirt cut into strips. A different rag needs to be used with every product to prevent cross-contamination.
A good leather shoe cleaner will be able to clean off foreign substances and dirt, which conventionally would become trapped under the polish layer, damaging the leather of your dress shoes. A cleaner will also prepare your shoes to be treated with moisturizer, causing the excess oils and polish present on the leather to be removed.
A leather cleaner should not be used too frequently as it can degrade the leather. If you can’t afford a professional, commercially produced leather cleaner, then make a blend of olive oil and vinegar to clean your shoes.
Regardless of which cleaner you use, only resort to using it if your shoes have developed a dull, scuffed appearance.
When leather dries out, it becomes extremely brittle. This drops its water-resistance and its breathability. The best way to tell if your shoes need a leather conditioner is to run your finger across them, feeling for any form of roughness.
If your shoes are rough to the touch, be sure to treat them with a good leather shoe conditioner to protect them from the elements, while building a good base for a polish patina.
There are two basic types of dress shoe polish available. Shoe Cream polishes are used to restore shoe color when your footwear has faded, while wax polishes are more commonly used for routine shoe maintenance. Use a wax polish to build up the existing shine, while a shoe cream polish is recommended prior to conditioning.
Some professionals even recommend that you apply a coat of shoe cream polish before buffing up a shine with wax. It's best to experiment and find the polishing order or routine, which is best for you. Always keep cream and wax polishes on hand for the best results.
Begin by using a shoe buffing brush to clear away all dirt lodged onto your shoes. If your dress shoes have a stubborn polish residue, then be sure to clean it off with leather cleaner; otherwise, resort to using nothing more than a dampened soft cloth to wipe them down. Shoe laces are best removed before cleaning.
As a general rule of thumb, it's best first to apply a layer of leather shoe cleaner. Leather cleaning agents go a long way, so resist the urge to use excessive amounts; just a small amount will do. After applying your conditioner, allow your shoes to rest for about twenty minutes. This allows the conditioner to be fully absorbed.
After about twenty minutes have elapsed, take a fresh soft cloth, and apply some shoe polish. Rub the polish onto your shoes using a circular motion, applying the polish sparingly. You need to apply as thin a layer as possible, applying a second layer if needed after allowing the polish to dry for roughly twenty minutes.
You then need to use a horsehair shoe brush, preferably of the dauber variety, to rigorously brush off any excess polish. Only a light film of polish should be left. A separate soft shoe buffing cloth can then be used to buff up a shine using circular motions. Many find that dampening the cloth and applying a tiny amount of polish works wonders for building up a mirror finish.
For those who are looking to add the perfect finishing touch to a shiny pair of dress shoes, consider opting for a product called edge dressing. This will keep your sole and heel matched to the shine of your shoes. You should only need to polish your shoes once every few weeks. Don't polish your shoes too frequently, or you may end up degrading their appearance far quicker than is normal.
Suede Shoes and Nubuck leather shoes require specialized shoe cleaning products. Any other oils or cleaners are highly likely to ruin your shoes completely. Often, the best way to get rid of dirt and smudges on a pair of suede or Nubuck leather shoes is to rub the marks away using a rubber eraser.
Be sure to rub in one direction only; otherwise, suede will discolor into distinct contrasting shades, marring the appearance of your dress shoes. Wire brushes and polish are never to be used on suede or nubuck. It's best to always treat these types of footwear with a silicone spray after cleaning to help with shoe weatherproofing and stain resistance.
<p>The post How to Maintain Leather Dress Shoes first appeared on Comfortable Dress Shoes.</p>
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