First impressions matter, especially in a professional setting. Your attire can communicate a lot about you before you even say a word. For many office environments, business casual is the standard dress code. This can be a tricky dress code to navigate, as you want to look professional and put-together, but you also don't want to be too formal. One way to add some personality and style to your business casual office outfits is with your shoes.
Oxfords
Oxfords are a classic business casual shoe that can be dressed up or down. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find a pair that matches your personal style. Some popular colors for oxfords include black, brown, tan, burgundy, and even navy or grey. As for styles, you can choose between plain toe, cap toe, split toe, or wingtip designs. This versatility in both color and style makes oxfords a staple in many business casual wardrobes.
Some examples of oxford styles include:
- Black cap toe oxfords - This classic style pairs well with gray suit pants or dress slacks. The black color and simple cap toe design give it an elegant, polished look.
- Tan wingtip oxfords - For a more unique look, try a tan wingtip design. It will stand out against darker pants while still looking professional.
- Burgundy split toe oxfords - This style provides visual interest with the split toe, making it perfect for workplaces that welcome some personality.
Loafers
Loafers are another comfortable and stylish option for business casual wear. They are easy to slip on and off, making them a great choice for busy professionals who are always on the go. Loafers are available in a variety of materials, including leather, suede, and canvas.
Leather loafers are versatile and durable. A polished leather style in black or brown can complement both dress pants or chinos in a business casual office. Suede loafers provide a softer, casual look that pairs well with khakis or flannel trousers. Canvas loafers are great for warmer climates or casual Friday, giving off relaxed weekend vibes.
Here are some example loafer styles in different materials:
- Leather penny loafers – A timeless classic that looks sharp with a button-down shirt and tie.
- Suede tassel loafers – The fringed tassels add a refined preppy touch.
- Checked canvas loafers – Fun patterned fabric loafers lend a casual, laidback vibe.
Brogues
Brogues are a type of oxford shoe that features decorative perforations. They are a bit more formal than oxfords, but they can still be worn with business casual attire. The perforations give brogues visual interest and can elevate an otherwise basic oxford shoe.
Some of the decorative elements commonly seen on brogues include:
- Wingtip perforations – The iconic “W” shaped medallion perforations on the toe cap.
- Medallion or tip perforations – Decorative patterns of holes punched in the leather across the shoe.
- Pinking – A scalloped trim around the edges of the leather pieces used in construction.
- Contrasting colors – Two-tone brogues use two different colors of leather for decorative impact.
Monk Straps
Monk straps are a unique and stylish type of shoe that features a buckle instead of laces. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find a pair that matches your personal taste. The strapped buckle provides visual interest and makes monk straps stand out as an uncommon variety of men’s footwear.
Monk straps are defined by:
- Single or double buckled straps across the upper – The signature feature that replaces shoelaces.
- Sleek, streamlined profile – Monk straps don’t have excessive ornamentation for smooth, simple styling.
- Variety of leather finishes – From polished leather to nubuck or suede.
- Range of colors – Available in classic black and brown but also tan, gray, burgundy, blue, etc.
Some examples showing the diversity of monk strap styles:
- Double-strapped black leather monk shoes – Shiny black leather and silver buckles create formal polish.
- Earth-tone suede monk ankle boots – Rugged contrast of soft suede and dark straps.
- Blue nubuck monk strap loafers – Casual, relaxed vibe in an unexpected color.
Chelsea Boots
Chelsea boots are a versatile type of boot that can be worn with a variety of outfits, both casual and formal. They are made from a variety of materials, including leather, suede, and rubber. The material chosen impacts the style and formality level of Chelsea boots.
Some common Chelsea boot material options:
- Polished leather – Smooth leather in black, brown, tan, etc. Elevates the formality of the boots.
- Suede – Provides a matte finish and casual vibe. Works for business casual offices.
- Rubber – Makes the boots fully waterproof. Best for extremely casual outfits.
- Elastic gores – Often made of rubber or other stretchy fabric. Allows boots to be easily slipped on.
Regardless of material, most Chelsea boots share key attributes like the elastic ankle gores, rounded toe, and pull tab at the back. But materials like leather versus suede or rubber make a difference in conveying dressier or casual work-appropriate styles.
Wingtips
Wingtips are a classic dress shoe that can be worn with a variety of business casual outfits. They are characterized by their distinctive wing-shaped toe medallion. The perforated edges create an ornate “W” pattern on the toe box. This decorative element defines the wingtip style and sets these dress shoes apart.
Beyond the signature wingtips detailing, common traits include:
- Oxford or brogue styling – Wingtips fuse oxford lacing structure with brogue decorative touches.
- Contrast sole edges – Painted contrast along the edge of the sole adds flair.
- Variety of leather types – Smooth, polished leather to rugged scotch grain leather.
- Range of colors – Available in classic black and brown as well as daring colors like green, blue, red, etc.
Some examples of wingtip diversity:
- Black and white two-tone wingtips – Bold contrast colors add modern edge.
- Brown and navy blue spectator wingtips – Snazzy yet refined style.
- Walnut brown brogue wingtips – Timeless and versatile for pairing with most business casual attire.
Sneakers
Sneakers are not typically considered business casual attire, but they can be worn with certain types of business casual outfits. The key is sticking to sleek, simple styles instead of chunky athletic sneakers. Clean white or black leather sneakers immediately elevate a casual outfit into looking crisp and sharp. While still providing the comfort people love from kicks.
Some examples of office-appropriate sneakers:
Minimal white leather sneakers – evoke classic old school gym shoe look
Black leather high-tops – streamlined instead of sporty
Gray suede retro low-tops – give off refined throwback vibe
Even though sneakers are inherently casual, certain styles can definitely work for hip creative agencies, tech startups, media companies, or other jobs where culture tends toward youthful self-expression. Just style thoughtfully with other refined pieces.
Driving Shoes
Driving shoes are a comfortable and stylish option for business casual wear. They are made from a soft, flexible material that makes them easy to wear. Common uppers include supple leather, velvety suede, or smooth knit fabric. These pliable materials allow driving shoes to mold to the contours of your feet. Unlike stiff leather dress shoes, quality driving shoes break in easily. So they feel natural rather than need a long breaking-in process.
Besides soft uppers, flexible soles also contribute to the signature comfort of driving shoes:
- Rubber soles – durable yet cushy feel
- Micro-lug outsoles – provides traction without heavy tread
- Low profile heels – enhances mobility
The combination of relaxed uppers and flexible soles makes driving shoes an effortless choice for all-day wear. They balance comfort with professionalism for the office commute and navigating meetings and appointments during busy workdays.
Conclusion
The shoes you choose for work ensembles matter more than most men realize. They don’t have to be boring black oxfords to look professional either. The range of business casual shoes offers versatile options to incorporate signature flair into office outfits. Beyond basic dress shoes, consider loafers, Chelsea boots, wingtips, driving shoes or even sleek sneakers instead. Just aim for styling cohesion with the formality level of the rest of your outfit.
But by choosing shoes aligned with your personal taste, you can stand out while still dressing appropriately for the office. Your shoes speak volumes about your personality and priorities before you even say a word. So put thought into choosing business casual shoes that represent your unique style!
