Ok men, let’s talk shoes: It’s potentially my favourite topic. Only because it’s widely accepted that, unless you live in Midland, you wear something on your feet whenever you leave the house. No matter what your favourite pastime is (apart from horizontal pelvic strength training) you’re sure to be wearing SHOES whilst you do it.
It’s warming up, and as we start to wear less clothing, we start to accentuate different aspects of our outfit. With spring heralding the arrival of exposed flesh, shoes are a whole lot more visible and with the right choice, they can become the feature of your get-up.
Now as the winter boots go back into closet, there’s a perfect transitional boot to take its place. You’ll be sure to be wearing shorts by now, and therefore a great way to draw attention to yourself (gents, this is exactly what we want, right?) is to strap on something masculine. Sometimes you have to take the lead from those of our ancestors who marched tirelessly to spread the Empire beyond Great Britain – lots of those tyrant strides were aided by the sturdy desert boot. You’ll be a tyrannous trooper in no time by lacing up a pair of these conquerors.
For the more casual look, take some inspiration from our maritime mates down by the dockside. Nautically inspired apparel is timeless; and for classic gentlemen like us, a pair of boat-shoes is just what the Fremantle Doctor ordered. Wear them with clean pressed tailored shorts, or chinos with a rolled-ankle.
For the perfect in-betweener, be sure to invest in some loafers (also known as the slip-on shoe). Traditionally the footwear of choice for members of gentlemen’s clubs, and posh schoolboys; these versatile gems have slipped-on back into trend in a BIG way. These shoes are able to be dressed up or down, so choose plain leather or suede, and a simple design for a sleek look. Leather-soled brown loafers match with everything except dark suits and dinner jackets and are formal enough for most occasions.
So with the emergence of colour in spring and summer this year, we now have a two-phased debate. Should we go greyscale or colour? And which type of shoe? The answer is, as many as you can afford in as many colours as you like. Blue desert boots, muted maroon boat-shoes, orange loafers. I recommend you invest in classic pieces that you will use season after season. Shoes are no exception.
Check out online stores like ASOS (www.asos.com) and Style Tread (www.styletread.com.au) for well-priced winners that are made for walking. Our retail picks include Aquila for the more conservative pairs, and Hype DC for an extensive casual collection.
Nathan White
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