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Writer's pictureTom Goedhart

5 Pairs of Shoes Every Man Should Own

The struggle is real when you’re faced with a multitude of shoe styles. But here’s the deal: you don’t need a wardrobe full of footwear - just a few key pairs that can save you on any given day.


Once, shoes were an afterthought, a simple accessory to complete an outfit. But in today’s fashion landscape, shoes have earned their rightful place as a central piece of style. Major brands now give shoes the attention they deserve, elevating them to a category all their own. And rightly so - everything should be given the respect it deserves!


In a world where less is more, choosing the right shoes becomes a crucial decision. You need quality and versatility - shoes that work with multiple looks. Here are the 5 essential pairs I believe should be in every man's collection.


Brown Brogue Shoes

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Brogues are often mistaken for a specific shoe type, but they actually refer to the perforated patterns adorning the shoe - whether it’s on an Oxford or Derby style.


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Brown brogues are a timeless classic that effortlessly works for a smart-casual vibe, making them an essential for your shoe lineup.


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Brown comes in a variety of tones, from light to dark, chocolate to chestnut, and each one pairs effortlessly with everything from dress pants to jeans or chinos. I personally recommend pairing brown brogues with dark blue jeans for a classic, masculine combination. If you’re going for a refined yet relaxed look, brogues are a must.


Black Oxford Shoes

A staple in every man’s closet, black Oxford shoes define sophistication.

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The key difference between Oxfords and Derby shoes is the lacing system: Oxfords have a closed lacing system, while Derbies feature an open one.


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For formal occasions, a black leather pair with a cap toe is non-negotiable. Keep in mind that black leather requires a bit more TLC - regular polishing is a must to maintain its shine, and you’ll need to be cautious of rain.

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Suede Loafers

Suede loafers strike the perfect balance between laid-back and polished. While they’re usually associated with the summer months, they work year-round, especially when paired with chinos or a jacket. Choose light tones like beige or tan to keep things fresh.

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Loafers are a great way to balance formality, and they’ll add a bit of sophistication without feeling overly stuffy. For a streamlined look, opt for invisible socks - nothing kills the vibe faster than visible socks with loafers.

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White Leather Sneakers

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White sneakers need no introduction. They're everywhere - and for good reason. These shoes go with nearly everything, from casual jeans to a suit and tie. Whether you’re throwing on a T-shirt and denim or dressing up with a blazer and chinos, white sneakers add a youthful, effortless touch to your look.

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Icons like Adidas Stan Smiths, Converse Chuck Taylor, and the Adidas Superstar are classics that will always serve you well.


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Chelsea boots

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If you’re after a versatile boot, the Chelsea boot is the way to go. Unlike traditional lace-up boots, these slip-ons offer a sleek, modern look that works with everything from chinos to dress pants.

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Pair them with a shirt and trousers for work, or with jeans for a night out - they’re adaptable enough to take you from day to night seamlessly.

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For the safest bet, go with classic colors like black or dark brown, but trust me—once you get a pair, you’ll want to wear them all the time. And between you and me, I’m a bit of a Chelsea boots addict. 😉

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Finding all of these shoes in one place might be tricky, especially in Hanoi, but I’ve spotted 1989 Original Shoes carrying a solid selection of derby shoes and sneakers, plus some really nice Chelsea boots. Definitely check them out for your next shoe shopping spree.


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