Dress shoes complete the formal ensemble. Shoes worn with a suit can be roughly divided into two categories: oxford and derby style shoes. In an oxford shoe, the upper is smoothly attached under the toe cap, whereas in a derby style shoe, the pieces to which the laces are attached are sewn on top of the toe cap. In a derby shoe, the toe cap and the tongue are one continuous piece, unlike in an oxford, where these are separate pieces.
Another essential aspect when choosing dress shoes is the sole and especially its manufacturing method. For dress shoes, particularly at celebrations, it is advisable to favor high-quality leather-soled shoes made using traditional methods. Of course, a stitched leather sole is also significantly more comfortable, higher quality, and more durable than a glued sole, not to mention the style. In the construction of leather soles, two traditional methods are preferred: blake welt or goodyear welt, which are named after their developers. Both methods have their advantages and supporters. At Saarnila, most of our shoes are made using the blake welt method, which is more typical in Italian shoes. The strengths of this method include a more flexible structure.
The most traditional and safest choice for dress shoes is an Oxford-style thin-soled shoe, especially if the outfit is intended for an event with a suit dress code.
It has previously been thought that a black shoe is the safest and most versatile, but nowadays it seems that brown has replaced that idea. A dark brown shoe is often easier and more reliable to pair with many different shades of suits, with the exception of course being a black suit, for which a black shoe is likely the only right choice.
In Finland, a derby-style leather shoe is also perfectly suitable as a dress shoe, as long as the color and style are considered. However, in some countries, etiquette is followed more literally, and derby shoes are perceived as more casual wear. Therefore, it is always worth considering this when thinking about your attire for different occasions at home or abroad.
At Saarnista, you will find high-quality, traditionally crafted shoes in both oxford and derby styles, available in various shades and patterns to make a statement at the office or dazzle at parties! We are happy to help you choose the right shoe that is perfect for you and your style.