Dos and Don’ts: Dress Shoes

Do wear comfortable shoes.
Uncomfortable, ill-fitting shoes are the wrong choice, no matter what the occasion. Ideally, shoe shopping should be done later in the day, when feet are at their biggest. (Your feet will thank you later.)

Do try them on.
No two shoes are created alike, so make sure to get properly fitted before deciding on a particular pair. The ball of the foot is the most important measurement when it comes to shoes, not the length. If they feel too snug along the width, go up half a size.

Don’t wear dress shoes more than two days in a row.
Did you know that the average person takes 7,500 to 10,000 steps a day? So give your shoes a rest by putting them on a rotation. This will ensure that your shoes will look (and smell) better longer.

Don’t mix brown and black.
Brown shoes and a charcoal or black suit just don’t mix. Opt for black shoes instead.

Do match your shoes to your belt.
If you’re wearing brown shoes, wear a brown belt. If you’re wearing black shoes, wear a black belt. They don’t need to match exactly but do try to stay in the same color scheme.

Do invest in cedar shoetrees.
Feet can perspire up to a pint a day. That’s why it’s important to invest in cedar shoes trees for every pair of dress shoes you own. Not only do shoetrees prevent odors by wicking moisture away from the leather lining, but, when used regularly, they also help to preserve the shoe’s original shape.

Do use a shoehorn.
Nothing ruins the integrity of a shoe faster than forcing on a dress shoe. Unlace or unbuckle your dress shoes, and use a shoehorn, which is a curved tool made from plastic, wood, or metal that’s designed to ease your heel into your shoe.

Do regular maintenance.
High-quality dress shoes are an investment and require regular maintenance to keep them in top form. Take the time (at least once a month) to polish and buff your shoes with a shoe cream or conditioner.

Visit your local Men’s Wearhouse, where experienced Wardrobe Consultants are on hand to help you find the perfect pair of shoes. They can even help you choose the right shoe color and style to match that suit or pair of slacks you already own.

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