To wear a pair of shoes that are the wrong color or style for your suit is among the worst fashion mistakes. We all know that just because a pair of shoes may look stylish in one ensemble does not mean they will coordinate with everything in your wardrobe.
When you wear a suit of navy blue, dark gray, or black, you can’t go wrong with a pair of black shoes. Brown shoes might work, but only if they are of a dark shade. If the shoes are a light shade of brown, they will clash with a dark suit.
Just the opposite effect is needed with light colored summer suits, or white suits. Choose a shade of light tan or light brown to minimize the contrast between the shoes and the suit. A belt with more color contrast will help draw the eye away from the shoes.
A tie can also help to “tie” the look together. The tie should be of, or at least include, a color similar to that of the shoes. Many people make the mistake of checking their reflections in the mirror from only the waist up, and thus not regarding how the shoes look with the outfit.
Choosing the correct shoe style is also important. For a formal occasion, lace-up shoes are a must, slip-on shoes should never be worn. Also, be sure that the laces are not too widely spaced, that can lead to a shoe looking too casual.
Consideration must also be given to the finish or the material from which your shoes are made. Nice smooth shiny black leather shoes may match perfectly with a nice black men’s suit worn in a business environment.
Black suede shoes such as Hush Puppies, however, would not work with the same (if any) suit. Slip-ons and loafers are also wrong for a business environment. Remember, then, that color is not the only consideration when choosing the best pair of shoes for your suit.
Don’t forget the finishing touches. Your socks should always be the same color as your suit trousers. If you are wearing a light brown suit, match your socks to your shoe color. Be sure to keep your shoes clean and well polished to look well-groomed from head to toe!