How To Match Dress Pants With Shoes

Matching Dress Pants and Dress Shoes

As a general rule, men should follow these color combinations when deciding what shoes to wear with what pants, regardless whether they are dressy or not. Keep in mind that there are a bunch of other colors that could be thrown into the mix, but let us keep it simple.

SHOES & PANTS COLOR GUIDE

Pant/suit color                            Shoe color
Black                                         Black, tan or camel (a more risqué choice), oxblood
Gray                                          Black, oxblood, camel
Brown                                        Any shade of brown, black, camel
Navy                                          Black, camel, tan, oxblood
Earth tones                                Any shade of brown, camel, black

Dress shoes: A short guide

As for specific types of shoes to wear with specific styles of pants, here are a few suggestions:

Wear your khakis with...

1. For a classic look, wear your khakis with a pair of martin or tassel loafers to achieve traditional American business style. Another sure bet are Kiltie oxfords -- with or without perforated medallion toe detailing.

2. For a preppy look, wear khakis with a slick pair of penny loafers.

3. When attending a less formal, summer event, go for a pair of honey woven, water buffalo leather loafers with stitching on the sides.

4. Alternatively, wear your khakis with a pair of leather cap toe lace-up shoes.

Wear your 4-pocket pants and dress pants with...

1. For a more casual look, step into a handsome pair of monk strap shoes; their subtle buckle will give you a refined European look.

2. For the typical American businessman look, wear your dress pants with a pair of tassel loafers. Or, spice up your look by wearing a pair of bit loafers with half-rubber soles and gunmetal ornaments.

3. If you're seeking a trendier style, step into a pair of moccasin-style shoes in black or camel, with detailed stitching and a modern outsole.

Wear your suits with...

Classic: Every man should own a pair of black leather cap toe lace-up shoes; they're a staple in any businessman's wardrobe. Shiny black five-eyelet lace-ups, bal wingtips and straight tip blucher shoes -- with or without perforated detailing on toes -- are also sure bets.

Pinstripe: For your pinstripes, opt for a smart pair of shiny posillipo shoes, patent leather formal shoes, or Santa Barbara shoes.

Formal: On more formal occasions, wear a pair of evening shoes, plain-toe shoes, or Albany shoes.

Trendy: Finally, ankle boots with a square or elongated pointy toe are riding high if you're seeking up-to-the-minute style.In the end, just remember that it's not all about what you're wearing, but rather how you wear it. Until next time, keep on stylin'.