A man’s selection of dress shoes reflects his sense of style, confidence, and eye for detail. For a business meeting, a formal gathering, or an elegant evening, the right dress shoes can elevate or ruin your outfit. But with trends evolving, it’s crucial to stay updated on what men’s dress shoes are in style in 2025.
From timeless classics to modern updates, the world of men’s dress shoes is rich with variety. In this guide, we’ll explore the most stylish dress shoes for men, how to wear them, and what to look for when investing in a pair.
1. Classic Men’s Dress Shoes That Never Go Out of Style
Some dress shoes remain timeless, making them a smart investment for any wardrobe. These classic styles offer versatility, elegance, and sophistication that transcend seasonal fashion trends.
Oxford Shoes
Few shoes match the Oxford’s level of sophistication. Featuring a sleek closed-lacing system, these shoes deliver a polished look, making them ideal for business, formal gatherings, and high-end affairs. A well-crafted pair of leather Oxfords elevates any outfit, providing a refined, timeless appeal.
How to Style Oxfords:
- Black leather Oxfords are the go-to choice for black-tie events, corporate meetings, and formal weddings.
- Brown or oxblood Oxfords add depth and personality to navy, charcoal, and gray suits, making them versatile for office wear and special occasions.
- Pairing Oxfords with tailored trousers and a blazer creates a smart-casual look that balances refinement with modern appeal.
Derby Shoes
Unlike Oxfords, Derby shoes have an open-lacing design, offering a more relaxed fit and a slightly less formal appearance. Their roomier fit and flexible structure makes them a must-have for men who value both style and ease.
Why Derbies Are a Must-Have:
- Perfect for business suits and smart casual attire, offering versatility in styling.
- Available in smooth leather, suede, and brogue styles, catering to different occasions.
- Ideal for men who need extra comfort due to its roomier fit and flexible structure.
Loafers
Loafers are a go-to choice for men who appreciate both ease and sophistication. Their slip-on design provides unmatched convenience while maintaining a polished appearance. With a mix of sophistication and comfort, these shoes suit both business and casual occasions.
Trending Loafer Styles in 2025:
- Penny Loafers – Classic, sleek, and ideal for office wear, pairing well with suits or dress pants.
- Tassel Loafers – A sophisticated choice for semi-formal occasions, adding a refined touch to business casual attire.
- Horsebit Loafers – Luxurious and stylish, featuring a signature metal detail that enhances their elegance.
- Velvet Loafers – A bold trend for evening wear, bringing an opulent feel to formal outfits like tuxedos and tailored suits.
2. Modern Trends in Men’s Dress Shoes for 2025
Men’s dress shoes in 2025 embrace bold designs, innovative materials, and a mix of classic and contemporary aesthetics. Here are the biggest trends shaping formal footwear this year.
Chunky Sole Dress Shoes
Chunky dress shoes have made a strong comeback in 2025. These shoes add a modern, edgy feel to classic styles while maintaining a dressy appearance.
How to Wear Chunky Dress Shoes for a Contemporary Look:
- Pair them with slim-fit trousers or cropped pants for a fashion-forward aesthetic.
- Opt for monochrome styles with thick soles to keep things sophisticated.
- Look for lug-sole Oxfords and Derbies for a bold yet elegant touch.
Two-Tone Dress Shoes
Two-tone dress shoes blend vintage charm with modern appeal. They’re especially popular in the Oxford, Derby, and Monk Strap styles.
Where to Wear Stylish Two-Tone Dress Shoes:
- Formal parties, semi-formal gatherings, and cocktail events.
- Vintage-inspired outfits with tweed or checkered suits.
- Ideal for those who love a touch of 1920s-inspired fashion mixed with modern tailoring.
Suede Dress Shoes
Suede is a high-end material that adds texture and personality to formalwear. While traditionally reserved for more casual settings, suede Oxfords and Derbies are now seen in formal ensembles as well.
Styling Suede Dress Shoes for a Smart-Casual Appeal:
- Perfect with lightweight summer suits in linen or seersucker.
- An excellent choice for styling with chinos or wool trousers in a smart-casual outfit.
- Choose neutral shades like tan, navy, or charcoal for maximum versatility.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Dress Shoes
Sustainability is becoming a key focus in men’s footwear. Brands are introducing vegan leather, recycled materials, and ethically sourced leather to appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
Best Sustainable Dress Shoe Options:
- Vegan leather Oxfords for a polished, ethical alternative.
- Recycled rubber-soled dress shoes for a mix of comfort and sustainability.
- Handcrafted, ethically sourced leather shoes for durability and timeless appeal.
3. Choosing the Right Dress Shoe for Your Needs
Best Dress Shoes for Business Professionals
Black Oxfords
A must-have for corporate environments, black Oxfords exude a formal and polished look that’s perfect for meetings, presentations, or any professional setting.
Brown Derbies
Offering a stylish yet professional appearance, brown Derbies work well for everyday office wear, providing a bit of warmth and versatility to your business attire.
Leather Loafers
Ideal for smart-casual business settings, leather loafers offer comfort and style, making them a great option for those who want to look sharp without sacrificing ease.
Best Dress Shoes for Weddings & Formal Events
Patent Leather Oxfords
The ultimate formalwear shoe, perfect for black-tie weddings or high-end galas, adding a polished and sophisticated touch.
Velvet Loafers
For evening events, velvet loafers add a luxurious and refined element, offering elegance with a bit of personality.
Two-tone Brogues
Ideal for creative individuals, two-tone brogues bring a fashion-forward edge while maintaining a formal appearance.
Best Dress Shoes for Casual Chic Style
Suede Loafers
These work great with blazers and dress pants, offering a refined yet laid-back look for casual chic styles.
Chunky Sole Derbies
A modern and relaxed alternative, chunky sole Derbies provide comfort while still maintaining a sharp look.
Minimalist Leather Sneakers
Blurring the lines between casual and dressy, minimalist leather sneakers can be paired with suits and casual outfits.
Budget vs. Luxury Comparison
| Shoe Type | Budget-Friendly Brands | Luxury Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Oxfords | Johnston & Murphy | Edward Green |
| Loafers | Florsheim | Gucci |
| Derbies | Clarks | Berluti |
4. Tips for Buying High-Quality Dress Shoes
Material Matters:
- Full-grain leather offers unmatched durability and sophistication.
- Suede adds texture but requires more maintenance.
- Patent leather is best for formal occasions but less versatile for daily wear.
Shoe Construction:
- Goodyear welted shoes last longer and can be resolved.
- Blake-stitched shoes offer flexibility and a sleek look.
Fit and Comfort:
- Evening is the ideal time to test dress shoes, as your feet tend to swell by then.
- Make sure the fit is secure while allowing your toes to move comfortably.
- Invest in quality insoles for all-day comfort.
Conclusion
Men’s dress shoes in 2025 embrace a mix of classic sophistication and modern trends. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of Oxfords, the versatility of Derbies, or the contemporary appeal of chunky soles and suede, the right pair can elevate your style effortlessly.
Which of these fashionable dress shoes will you be adding to your collection? Share your thoughts in the comments below!