Types of Formal Shoes: A Complete Guide for Men

May 07, 2025

A well-dressed man begins with his shoes. While outfits may come and go, the right pair of formal shoes remains timeless. Whether you're heading to the boardroom, attending a black-tie affair, or simply want to sharpen your everyday style, investing in the right types of formal shoes is essential. These are not shoes you change every day, so investing in the right ones is important. Additionally, if your profession follows a strict dress code, then it is even more important that you know which types of shoes qualify as formal.

What Are Formal Shoes?

Formal shoes are structured, polished footwear designed for professional, ceremonial, or dressy occasions. They usually feature:

• Leather or premium synthetic uppers
  
  
• Minimalistic or refined detailing
  
  
• Closed or structured construction
  
  
• Classic colours like black, brown, tan, or oxblood
  

Understanding the different types of formal shoes ensures you never feel underdressed or overdressed.

Oxford Shoes Considered the most traditional and elegant among all types of dress shoes, Oxfords are a symbol of polished sophistication. A style of many names and many evolutions across history, this one has remained a staple in men’s wardrobes for more than a century now. 

What sets them apart:

• Closed lacing system (the eyelets are stitched under the vamp)
• Clean, minimalistic design that complements both suits and tuxedos

Whether it’s a job interview or a formal event, a well-shined pair of men's Oxford shoes speaks volumes. Choose classic black leather for maximum versatility or experiment with oxblood for a slightly bolder look. Pick one constructed with premium leather from Metro to own a piece for years to come.

Best paired with: Tailored suits, formal trousers, and even slim-fit chinos for a high-low mix. 

Derby Shoes

Slightly more relaxed than the Oxford, Derby shoes are perfect for those who want formality without being overly traditional. The major difference with Oxfords lies in the lacing system, with Derby shoes going for open lacing as compared to the closed lacing system of Oxfords, which gives them a more casual look compared to Oxfords.

Why you'll love them:

• Open lacing system (the eyelets are stitched on top of the vamp)
• Slightly wider fit, ideal for men with broader feet
• Versatile enough for business meetings and after-work dinners

You can opt for derby shoes for men in smooth leather for formal occasions or try a suede version for casual Fridays at the office. With one Oxford and one derby shoe in your wardrobe, you can cover a majority of work events.

Style tip: Try them with grey suits or even dark-wash jeans for a refined smart-casual vibe.

Brogues

Brogues aren’t a separate shoe type per se but rather a decorative style that features perforations and serrated edges. You’ll find brogue detailing on Oxfords, Derbies, and even monk straps. This detailing style makes them a bit more ornamental as compared to non-brogue styles, which makes them more suitable for special occasions.

Key styles:

• Full brogues (wingtips): Feature a “W” shape design on the toe
• Semi-brogues: Decorative toe caps with subtle perforations
• Quarter brogues: Minimal broguing, best for understated elegance

Brogues bring character to classic silhouettes and are ideal for men who like their formality with a side of flair. 

Perfect for: Formal events, creative workplaces, weddings, and cocktail evenings.

Monk Strap Shoes

For the modern man who likes to make a quiet statement, monk strap shoes are the ideal choice. This design is considered less formal than a full Oxford, but more so than an open Derby, which puts them at a sweet spot between ultra-formal and semi-casual.  These are often considered the most accomplished form of formal shoes.

What makes them unique:

• No laces—secured by one (single monk) or two straps (double monk)
• A sleek alternative to the traditional lace-up styles
• Elegant yet fashion-forward

A deep brown or tan double monk strap shoe paired with navy trousers and a crisp white shirt is an effortlessly chic combination.

Want to stand out? Look for monk straps in burnished leather or suede textures for added richness. You can even pick ones with prominent buckle detailing that helps highlight your style even further.

Loafers

Once seen as casual wear, loafers have successfully earned their place in the formal shoe line-up, thanks to their sleek design and versatility.

Why they’re wardrobe essentials:

• Slip-on style = ease of wear
• Available in various finishes like leather, suede, patent, and textured
• Can be worn with or without socks, depending on the occasion

From tassel to penny loafers, they effortlessly bridge the gap between formal and smart casual. Pair your loafers for men with cropped trousers or even a Nehru jacket for festive occasions. Make sure to choose styles that meet the criteria of being called formals – an easy way to do that is by choosing leather loafers.

Hot take: Black patent loafers can work beautifully with tuxedos.

How to Choose the Perfect Formal Shoe for Your Style

Knowing the different types of formal shoes is only the first step. The real art lies in selecting the right pair based on your lifestyle, wardrobe, and personal flair.

Here’s a quick guide that will save you the next time you need to pick a new formal shoe:

Your Style	Best Formal Shoe Match
Classic & Corporate	Oxfords, Quarter Brogues
Fashion-Forward	Double Monk Straps, Full Brogues
Easygoing Yet Refined	Loafers, Derbies
Ethnic/Formal Fusion	Loafers, Monk Straps in suede or velvet
Big on Details	Wingtip Brogues, Statement Derbies

Pro Tip: Invest in neutral shades like black, dark brown, and tan for maximum pairing flexibility. But don’t be afraid to own one bold pair—perhaps in oxblood or navy.

Final Thoughts: Build a Smart Formal Shoe Collection

If you're building your wardrobe from scratch, start with this order:

1. Black Oxford shoes
   
   
2. Brown Derby shoes
   
   
3. Tassel or Penny Loafers
   
   
4. Double Monk Straps
   
   
5. Wingtip Brogues
   

This lineup ensures you're prepared for every formal scenario.

At Metro, we design formal shoes that combine comfort, craftsmanship, and contemporary style. Whether you prefer classic Oxfords or modern monk straps, our collection is built for the modern gentleman.

FAQs: Types of Formal Shoes

1. What are the main types of formal shoes for men?

The main types include Oxfords, Derbies, Brogues, Monk Straps, and formal Loafers.

2. Which formal shoes are best for office wear?

Oxfords and Derbies are ideal for daily office use due to their clean structure and comfort.

3. Are loafers considered formal shoes?

Yes, leather loafers with minimal detailing are considered formal, especially for smart-casual or business-casual settings.

4. What is the most formal type of shoe?

Oxford shoes are the most formal due to their closed-lacing design.

5. Can I wear brogues to a formal event?

Yes, especially semi or quarter brogues. Full brogues are slightly more casual but still acceptable for many formal occasions.

6. Which colour formal shoes should I buy first?

Black is the most versatile, followed by dark brown and tan.