How To Style Men Lace Up Shoes With Any Outfit A Complete Guide
Men’s lace up shoes are a timeless wardrobe essential. Versatile, stylish, and functional, they can elevate just about any look—from business formal to casual weekend wear. Whether you’re heading to the office, a wedding, or just a casual hangout, the right pair of lace up shoes can complete your outfit with confidence and sophistication.
Here’s a complete guide on how to style men’s lace up shoes with every kind of outfit.
1. Formal Attire: Office & Black-Tie Events
When dressing for a formal event or the workplace, men’s lace up shoes like Oxfords or Derbies are your go-to options. These classic shoes pair perfectly with suits and tailored trousers.
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What to Wear: Navy, charcoal, or black suits with crisp white or pastel shirts.
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Best Shoe Types: Black leather Oxfords for maximum formality; brown Derbies for business professional looks.
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Pro Tip: Match your shoes with your belt and keep your shoes polished to maintain a refined appearance.
2. Business Casual: Effortlessly Polished
For a more relaxed office environment or semi-formal meetings, men’s lace up shoes in brown or oxblood add a classy touch without being too stiff.
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What to Wear: Chinos, button-down shirts, and blazers.
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Best Shoe Types: Brogues, cap-toe Derbies, or suede lace up shoes.
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Pro Tip: Choose medium to light brown shades to add warmth to neutral outfits.
3. Smart Casual: Stylish Yet Comfortable
Smart casual outfits give you a lot of flexibility, and men’s lace up shoes can anchor the look with a blend of elegance and approachability.
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What to Wear: Dark jeans, polo shirts, knitwear, or casual blazers.
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Best Shoe Types: Suede lace ups, wingtip brogues, or plain toe Derbies.
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Pro Tip: Opt for textures like suede or pebbled leather to add a more casual, tactile feel to your footwear.
4. Casual Wear: Elevate Everyday Outfits
You don’t need sneakers to look laid-back. In fact, men’s lace up shoes in relaxed materials can upgrade your everyday look effortlessly.
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What to Wear: Jeans or chinos, plain or graphic tees, casual overshirts or jackets.
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Best Shoe Types: Casual leather lace ups, desert boots, or minimal brogues.
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Pro Tip: Try rolling your pants slightly above the ankle to highlight the shoe and add a modern twist.
5. Evening & Special Events: Understated Elegance
For evening dinners or special occasions, a slightly dressier version of your regular outfit paired with quality lace up shoes adds a refined finish.
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What to Wear: Slim-fit trousers, button-down shirts, structured jackets.
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Best Shoe Types: Polished leather lace ups in deep tones like burgundy or espresso.
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Pro Tip: Add accessories like a pocket square or leather watch for a complete look.
6. Tips for Choosing and Maintaining Lace Up Shoes
To make the most of your men’s lace up shoes, keep the following in mind:
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Choose the Right Fit: Ill-fitting shoes can ruin both your style and comfort. Make sure there’s enough room at the toes and a snug fit at the heel.
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Invest in Quality Materials: Full-grain leather or premium suede ensures durability and better aging.
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Rotate Your Shoes: Don’t wear the same pair every day—this helps maintain their shape and longevity.
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Keep Them Clean: Regular cleaning, conditioning, and polishing go a long way in preserving the look and life of your lace up shoes.
Final Thoughts
Men’s lace up shoes are more than just functional footwear—they’re a versatile style investment that works with almost any outfit. From tailored suits to denim weekends, they adapt effortlessly to your fashion needs. With the right pair and thoughtful styling, you’ll always put your best foot forward.
