As the UK starts to plan ahead following the latest relaxing of the COVID-19 restrictions the return of off Weddings, formal events or simply going back to the office has been welcomed by shoe enthusiasts as it’s meant we can make use of our shoe collections again. It has long been said that investing in a quality pair of Goodyear welted shoes is a wise decision especially when it comes to a formal dress shoe. The dress shoe is a men’s leather dress shoe is a wardrobe essential for all of us as no matter your personal style there will be a time or occasion when the dress shoe is required.
From heel to toe, the dress shoe has to provide effortless elegance that can be worn to black-tie ball or similarly formal events with the iconic men’s dress shoe being the plain toe Oxford in black.
The Oxford is in pole position when it comes to comparing men’s formal dress shoes as its style’s closed lacing system with a low heel and exposed ankle offers a smart silhouette that compliments formal wear and suiting perfectly.
The Oxford shoe has English roots having developed from a half boot call the ‘Oxonian’ in 1825 which was fashionable to wear by students on campus at the famous Oxford University. No matter the variation of Oxford shoe chosen (plain, toe cap, brogue or wholecut) the colour black is the obvious decision for a versatile dress shoe that can be worn indefinitely at formal occasions and events but furthermore for going to the work office every day.
The current Barker collection includes an extensive range of Oxford shoes featured in the BarkerTech, Handcrafted, London and Professional collections. The most popular Oxford shoes as recommended by the Barker London flagship store teams include the the Alfred, Falsgrave, Lerwick, McClean, and Winsford.
Although the men’s black Oxford shoe is the first choice the rise of the brown Oxford shoe has meant there’s a stylish alternative to the classic black work shoe that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Within the Barker collection several shades of brown are favourites in the Oxford style such as Cedar, Antique Rosewood and Dark Walnut especially when contrasting colour/materials are featured in the shoe design. The best selling Oxford brogue by Barker that is a ‘Wedding shoe’ favourite is the Barker McClean, made on the 443 last from premium calf with contrast suede or laser paisley detailing. The McClean in Cedar Calf / Navy Suede comes highly recommended as does several of the other Creative collection Oxford styles including the Grant, Jax and Valiant Oxford brogues.
The Oxford’s shoe counterpart, the Derby has also seen its label as a less formal shoe style be re-considered with the plain toe Derby now being in on fashion runways as well as the city. A simple plain toe Derby such as the Barker Ellon, Nairn or Skye offers both style and comfort due to the open lacing system.
Another Barker shoe style that can be worn for formal events is the slip on loafer in particular the Penny or Tassel Loafer with the Caruso, Clive, Jevington, Portsmouth and Studland styles being highly recommended.
Explore the current Barker collection online by colour to shop all dress shoe styles available in black and/or shades of brown.
