Are you tired of buying men’s dress shoes only to realize they’re the wrong size, style, or just plain uncomfortable? Have you ever found yourself saying, “these shoes just aren’t my type”? 

Fear not, because we’re here to save the day and help you avoid those pesky shoe-shopping mistakes. So, gents, put on your thinking shoes (pun intended), and let’s dive into the top 10 ways to avoid buying men’s dress shoes wrong. Who knows, you might just learn a thing or two and finally find the perfect pair of shoes to sweep you off your feet (literally).

Top 7 Ways To Avoid Men’s Dress Shoes Mistakes

Expensive Doesn’t Mean Good Quality

Just because a pair of dress shoes have a high price tag doesn’t necessarily mean they are of high quality. A lot of factors, such as brand, marketing, and design, contribute to the price of a product. 

Be sure to read reviews and check the materials used before making a purchase. Consider investing in well-known brands known for their quality and durability, but also don’t be afraid to try less expensive options that might surprise you with their quality.

Avoid Square-toed Shoes Like the Plague

Square-toed dress shoes were popular in the 90s but have since fallen out of fashion. This shoe style has a bulky and outdated look, and it can make your feet look bigger and wider than they actually are. 

Instead, stick with more classic styles such as oxfords, brogues, or loafers to ensure a timeless and stylish appearance.

Rubber Shoes are a No-go

Rubber shoes are not suitable for dress shoes as they are casual and informal. Instead, opt for leather or suede shoes for a more sophisticated look. Leather dress shoes are a versatile option that can be dressed up or down and are suitable for a wide range of occasions.

If you are New to Dress Shoes, Stick to the Basics

If you are new to dress shoes, it’s best to start with the basics. Classic styles such as oxfords, brogues, and loafers are timeless, versatile, and suitable for a wide range of occasions. They can be dressed up or down, and they are a good foundation for building a collection of dress shoes.

Not Polishing your Shoes

Regularly polishing your shoes is vital to maintain their appearance and extending their lifespan. Use a good quality leather polish to keep the leather soft and moisturized and remove any scuffs and scratches. Make sure to apply the polish evenly to avoid creating a patchy appearance.

Stop Paying for Over-priced Shoes

Dress shoes can be expensive, but it’s important to avoid overpaying for them. Look for shoes made of quality materials and good craftsmanship, but don’t be afraid to explore less expensive options. 

There are many affordable dress shoes that are stylish and of high quality, so do your research and compare prices before making a purchase.

Learn to Spot the Difference Between High and Inferior Quality

Quality dress shoes will have good craftsmanship, with even stitching and a well-constructed sole. The leather should be soft, supple, and not easily scuffed. High-quality dress shoes will also have proper arch support and cushioning for comfort and should be durable and long-lasting. 

Inferior quality dress shoes will have loose or uneven stitching, a flimsy sole, and rough or stiff leather that is easily scuffed.

How To Store Dress Shoes

Properly storing dress shoes is important to maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan. Here are some tips on how to store nice dress shoes for men:

Use shoe trees: Shoe trees help keep the shoes’ shape, absorb moisture, and prevent creasing. Keep them in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing shoes in damp or humid areas, as this can cause mold and damage to the leather. A cool and dry place, such as a closet or a shoe rack, is ideal for storing dress shoes.

Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause fading and damage to the leather, so it’s best to store dress shoes in a place that is not exposed to sunlight.

Store them properly: Store your dress shoes in a way that they are not squished or stacked on top of each other. Keeping them organized and easily accessible will make finding the pair you need for any occasion easier.

Use cedar blocks: Cedar blocks can help absorb moisture and prevent odors in your dress shoes. Simply place a cedar block in each shoe when you store them.

Use a cloth or dust bag: If you don’t have shoe trees, consider using cloth or dust bags to protect your dress shoes. This will prevent them from getting scratched or scuffed and keep them dust-free.

General Questions We Often Hear About Guy’s Dress Shoes

1. How do I know if the Dress Shoes I Bought are the Wrong Size?

A good rule of thumb is to try on both shoes and walk around in them. If your feet feel cramped or your toes are touching the end of the shoe, they are likely too small. If there’s too much room in the shoe, they are probably too big. 

You should also measure your feet and compare them to the size chart provided by the manufacturer to ensure the best fit.

2. Is Comfort Important when Choosing Dress Shoes for Men?

Absolutely! Comfort should always be a top priority when choosing dress shoes. Dress shoes that are uncomfortable can cause pain and discomfort, making it difficult to walk and stand for extended periods. 

Look for shoes with cushioned insoles, proper arch support, and enough room for your toes to wiggle.

3. How can I ensure the Style of the Dress Shoes I Choose Fits the Occasion?

Consider the event or occasion for which you’ll be wearing the shoes. For formal events, opt for classic styles such as oxfords or brogues. 

On the other hand, loafers or monk-strap shoes might be a better choice for casual gatherings. It’s important to consider the dress code and the overall style of the event to ensure the shoes you choose are appropriate.

4. What are the Signs of Low-quality Dress Shoes?

Low-quality dress shoes often have poor craftsmanship, such as loose stitching or uneven soles. They may also be made of synthetic materials that are not durable and can easily wear out. 

In addition, low-quality dress shoes may not have proper arch support or cushioning, making them uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

5. What are Some Classic Styles of Dress Shoes that are Always in Fashion?

Oxford, brogues, and loafers are classic styles of dress shoes that never go out of fashion. These styles are versatile and timeless and can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion. 

Opt for classic colors such as black or brown, as these colors are versatile and can be easily paired with various outfits.

6. Why is it Important to try on Dress Shoes with the Socks I will be Wearing?

Trying on dress shoes with the socks you’ll be wearing helps to ensure a proper fit. Different types of socks can affect the fit of your shoes, so it’s important to make sure the shoes fit comfortably with the socks you’ll actually be wearing. 

By trying on the shoes with the socks, you can avoid purchasing shoes that are too tight or too loose and ensure a comfortable fit.

Key Takeaway

And there you have it, folks! With these tips, you should be able to avoid making the common mistakes people make when buying and storing dress shoes. Just remember, expensive doesn’t always mean good quality; avoid square-toed shoes like they’re carrying the plague, and always store your shoes in a cool, dry place.

But most importantly, never forget the golden rule of dress shoes: comfort is king. After all, you don’t want to be caught hobbling around in a pair of tight, painful dress shoes, ruining your sharp look and mood.

So, go ahead and make a fashion statement with your feet! And remember, when it comes to dress shoes, a little bit of humor and a lot of knowledge can go a long way.