THE CODE OF THE GENTLEMAN

IN A WORLD THAT’S BECOMING EVER MORE CASUAL – AND OVERRUN WITH FANCY SNEAKERS – PULLING ON YOUR BEST DRESS SHOES CAN FEEL LIKE A SUBTLE ACT OF SARTORIAL REBELLION.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

IN A WORLD THAT’S BECOMING EVER MORE CASUAL – AND OVERRUN WITH FANCY SNEAKERS – PULLING ON YOUR BEST DRESS SHOES CAN FEEL LIKE A SUBTLE ACT OF SARTORIAL REBELLION. 

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TEXT LYNETTE KOH PHOTOGRAPHY ZAPHS ZHANG ART DIRECTION FAZLIE HASHIM STYLING VIOLET FOO

A SURE FIT

With their polished calfskin uppers and rubber-panelled leather soles, these versatile fringed loafers are wardrobe MVPs that can give suits a slightly laidback vibe or sharpen smart-casual ensembles.

Wool trousers, from Ermenegildo Zegna. Leather shoes, from Brunello Cucinelli.
 
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SEEING DOUBLE

While sneakers are getting more dressed up, dress shoes are getting more comfy with sneaker-ish touches. These double monk strap shoes, for instance, feature an internal cork sole for a cushier wearing experience.

Leather shoes, from Bally.
 
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FINE FLOURISH

Less formal than oxfords (which feature lacing flaps that are close together), derby shoes are a charming classic – especially when decorated with traditional broguing (decorative perforations) at the front.

Leather shoes, from Burberry.
 
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DIAL IT UP

Blue loafers might not sound like footwear that pushes the style envelope, but with details such as dark metallic leather juxtaposed with textured pony skin, and featuring stonetopped hardware, these certainly do.

Leather and pony skin shoes, from Jimmy Choo.
 
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IN THE DETAILS

With dress shoes, it’s often not about bright colours or outrageous designs, but the little touches – think a diamond-shaped cutout in a penny loafer, minimalist perforated patterns or a dash of familiar woven leather.

(from right) Leather shoes, from Bottega Veneta. Leather shoes, from Dunhill. Leather shoes, from Boss.

 
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KEEP IT SIMPLE

With clean stitching and a gently curving seam, these derbies make for a quietly elegant finishing touch to most looks.

Wool suit, from Ermenegildo Zegna. Leather shoes, from Hermes.
 
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CROC STAR

Exotic skins have a swagger that requires confidence to pull off – there’s no way their distinctive patterns and luxurious sheen will go unnoticed.

Crocodile leather shoes, from Prada.