What Should Men Look For In A Wedding Shoe?
Wedding attire should of course be well fitted, comfortable and of good quality – but what shoes should you wear? For many men, the thought of wearing smart shoes brings images of blisters to mind, but this needn’t be the case on your wedding day.
Here, we explore exactly what makes a good pair of wedding shoes, and what you should look for when trying on various types in the run up to your big day.
Comfort
The biggest mistake you could make is buying a pair of shoes for your wedding day that are uncomfortable. If they’re too tight, too hard or the wrong shape for your feet, this can ruin your day as you’ll likely end up sore and irritable. Up to 80% of men typically wear the wrong size dress shoes, so be sure to have yours measured correctly.
For men with wider feet, look for square or round-toe shoes. These offer more space for your toes to sit naturally without being squeezed in. If you have narrower feet, you may find pointed shoes hug your feet better and you’re less likely to slip around inside them, which can cause rubbing. Be sure to try on a few different styles to see which feels the most comfortable – and use a shoehorn when trying them on in-store to prevent damaging the heels.
Material
Whilst leather is the most traditional material for mens’ dress shoes, there are synthetic and vegan options available which you may find more comfortable. Leather is very stiff at first, and it takes time to soften. When choosing leather shoes, be sure to wear them a few times before your wedding day to help them stretch and mould to the natural shape of your feet.
Vegan leather or vegan suede is more supple and breathable from the first wear, which can make it a more suitable choice for men who don’t often wear smart shoes and typically find them painful. If you have little time to wear-in your shoes and want to ensure you can dance the night away with ease, these can be a great option.
Coordination
When it comes to the style of your shoes, take into consideration the overall theme of your wedding and the colour of your suit. As a rule, navy suits require a brown shoe in any shade, but a black suit calls for black or grey shoes. However, the aesthetic of your wedding decor also plays a part.
If your wedding is in a traditional black tie fashion, you may want to opt for a brightly shining pair of black Oxfords or brogues. For a more bohemian or rustic theme, brown suede Derbies or Chelsea boots may be more appropriate. It’s wise to bring your suit with you when shopping for your wedding shoes, so you can clearly see which pair best complement your outfit.
Seek assistance
Ultimately, finding the perfect pair of dress shoes for your wedding need not be a painful experience. Ask for help from a professional shoe fitter and follow these tips to help you enjoy your wedding day looking dapper and feeling as comfortable as possible.
