A suit only looks complete when it is paired with the right footwear. The cut, fabric, and colour of a suit all influence which shoes work best. Choosing wisely can elevate your outfit, while the wrong match can undermine even the sharpest tailoring. At TruClothing, we stock men’s shoes ranging from Oxfords and Derbies to brogues, loafers, and Chelsea boots, designed to complement our wide range of single-breasted, double-breasted, three-piece, and tweed suits.
Oxfords
Oxfords are the most formal of men’s shoes, defined by their closed lacing and clean finish. They are the natural partner for traditional single-breasted and double-breasted suits. Black Oxfords pair best with black or charcoal tailoring, particularly in business or evening settings. A navy two-piece suit also works well with polished black Oxfords for a professional finish.
Brown Oxfords, on the other hand, bring warmth to mid-grey, blue, or tan suits. They are an excellent option for daytime events or weddings where a black shoe might feel too strict. With their understated shape, Oxfords suit plain or pinstriped fabrics more than bold checks.
Derby Shoes
Derbies are less formal than Oxfords but far more adaptable. Their open lacing allows for greater comfort, which makes them a popular choice for daily wear. A black Derby works with darker single-breasted and three-piece suits, including those with subtle check patterns.
Brown and tan Derbies are particularly effective with tweed suits or lighter checked fabrics, giving a more relaxed yet still smart appearance. They work well across business and social settings, striking a balance between formality and ease.
Brogues
With their decorative perforations, brogues add character to formalwear. While black brogues remain suitable for business wear with dark two-piece suits, brown brogues are often the preferred choice for checked or textured tailoring.
A navy checked three-piece suit paired with tan brogues creates a look that feels both polished and stylish, while a grey tweed suit works equally well with chestnut leather. Brogues are ideal for weddings, smart weekends, and semi-formal occasions where some individuality is welcome.
Loafers
Loafers are a laceless option that lend themselves well to modern and relaxed tailoring. Penny loafers in black can be worn with slim black suits, while brown loafers suit lighter blue or grey tailoring, especially during warmer months.
They work particularly well with cropped trousers or slim cuts, giving a contemporary look that is less rigid than lace-ups. Loafers are not ideal for formal evening dress, but they shine in business casual offices or summer events where a two-piece suit might be worn without a tie.
Chelsea Boots
Chelsea boots bring a modern edge to tailoring, offering a streamlined profile that works with slim and tapered cuts. A black Chelsea boot pairs well with slim navy or black suits, especially in single-breasted or double-breasted styles.
Brown Chelsea boots complement grey or tweed tailoring, adding depth during autumn and winter. A polished leather Chelsea boot can appear as formal as a Derby, while suede options lean more towards casual wear. They provide an alternative to traditional lace-ups without compromising on style.
Matching Leather and Colour
Beyond shoe type, it is important to consider colour and finish. Black shoes work best with darker suits, while shades of brown complement blues, greys, and textured fabrics such as herringbone or tweed. A simple rule is to keep shoes, belt, and leather accessories in similar tones. Polished leather feels sharper and more formal, while matte or suede finishes bring a relaxed edge.
Making the Right Choice
The right footwear completes a suit. Oxfords give classic formality, Derbies offer comfort and versatility, brogues provide character, loafers add relaxed smartness, and Chelsea boots bring modern confidence. By considering both the style and colour of your suit, as well as the occasion, you can select shoes that create a balanced and purposeful look.
At TruClothing, our range of men’s tailoring and formal footwear is designed to work together, helping you dress with confidence for any setting.