The big day is approaching and the ‘what shall I wear?’ anxiety rises. No, not just for the bride, let’s dispel this myth: men have these problems too. We at Fratinardi know this and are here to help our future grooms!
As much as it may seem that men’s formal shoes all look alike, this is not exactly the case: there are different models and colours and alternatives to the classics, too. All it takes is a lot of patience and the shoe of your dreams will be yours!
The Timeless
Let’s start with the great classics: oxfords, derbys and, although they have only been around for a few years, loafers, which have become a valid alternative. Perfect for those who want to give their outfits a classic and elegant touch, they have always been the favourite models of future brides and grooms.
Matt, shiny, black, blue, brown… The choice is wider than you might think and you can always play with textures and colours to give an extra touch to your outfit.
But let’s see them together
Oxford
The first choice of future brides and grooms are always the oxfords, the classic shoe par excellence, so called (probably) because they are very popular in the university of the same name. Simple, elegant and with no visible stitching, this shoe is perfect under any dress.
Pay attention to the colour, though, so that it doesn’t clash with those of the dress and accessories!
Derby
Very similar to oxfords, the substantial difference lies in the type of lacing, which in this shoe is open, while in oxfords it is closed. It is possible to find it in two variants, one simple and one with English stitching, as the perforations that decorate the leather are called.
And if they were once considered hunting shoes, today they are perfect for the city man who does not chase prey but style! Ideal for those who want to feel like a true gentleman à la Oscar Wilde.
Loafers
Despite their very ancient history (starting with Native Americans), loafers only became part of our wardrobe in 1936 and not without some difficulty. Did you know that in English they are called loafers? It means ‘lazy’, because they resemble slippers and were considered casual shoes. Almost a hundred years later, however, they have become a must-have for the classy man!
Comfortable and elegant, they are perfect for those who like neither oxfords nor derbies, but still want to have a classic and sophisticated look.
What if I… dare?
Trainers at a wedding? At your wedding! Isn’t that the stuff of kids and 40-year-olds with Peter Pan syndrome?
No.
We all have our own style, and although certain occasions call for a certain outfit, it’s not as if that prohibits you from wearing trainers under a formal dress.
In fact, the final effect is also very pleasing. It gives a casual, relaxed feel to the situation and, if you’re planning an intimate, informal wedding, you’d look more out of place in a pair of derbies than trainers!
From the classic white to the more daring, it is still best to stick to plain colours or at least a few contrasting details. The risk is to make it a misplaced detail rather than a studied one and the slip is just around the corner.
Conclusion
There are no rules for choosing the shoes you will wear at your wedding: choose the ones you feel most comfortable in and that go best with your dress! The important thing is that on that day you will wear shoes that are comfortable enough to allow you to enjoy the happiest day of your life with the person you love most in the world.
Of course, in the WEDDING section of our website (Fratinardi.it/en), you will find many other models to choose from, or come and visit us in our store in Battipaglia (Salerno, Italy). Our shop assistants will be happy to help you.