Take your cue from celebrities like (from left) Andrew Garfield, Kaytranada and Rege-Jean Page when it comes to switching up your footwear. Photo composite: AFP
Your style shouldn’t stop at the ankles. Shoes have the power to elevate an entire look, whether you are in tailored trousers or weekend denim.
While men may have fewer options than women in this department (heels are off the table), there is still plenty of room to experiment.
Sneakers are an easy option. With aesthetics becoming more relaxed – think trendy athleisure and chic sportswear – it is acceptable to wear trainers even in a more dressier setting.
Try pairing monochrome designs with a blazer or bold statement kicks with wide-leg trousers. It will make for a look that is equal parts polished and playful.
Boots, on the other hand, offer a more rugged edge – perfect for adding some weight to a lighter outfit.
Opt for Chelsea boots and wear them with slim jeans for a sleek finish. You can even consider chunky lace-ups to anchor wider silhouettes.
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The usual brogues and oxfords can be a little more staid, but these days, you can find coloured ones. These will break the monotony and inject a touch of personality into even the most classic ensembles.
Loafers are also just as versatile. You can elevate them with dress pants for the office, or tone them down with cuffed chinos for a casual weekend look.
A similar silhouette comes in the form of velvet slippers. These easy slip-ons can even be worn with a tuxedo for a black-tie event.
That said, fashion rules are meant to be broken. With changing trends, what’s previously unacceptable can now be seen as bold and fashion-forward instead.
Take, for example, actor Jonathan Bailey. He wore flip-flops for the photocall of his new film, Jurassic World Rebirth, in London.
It raised a few eyebrows among fashion observers, but also sparked a bigger question: how far can men really push the boundaries when it comes to footwear?
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Perhaps the answer lies not in the shoes themselves, but in the confidence it takes to wear them.
Observing how these stars mix, match and subvert expectations can offer everyday inspiration – because when it comes to dressing your feet, attitude is everything.
From Timothee Chalamet’s courtside boots to PP Krit’s all-black running shoes, the most stylish men are often the ones unafraid to play with convention.
Don’t forget how Rege-Jean Page stood out at this year’s Met Gala in a pair of fiery red leather oxfords. There is also Kaytranada, who sported cool loafers with thick soles at a recent red carpet event.
At the Golden Globes in January, Andrew Garfield posed in a loose suit and sleek leather ankle boots.
So, take a cue from these stars — because true style does not necessarily stop with your clothes. It may very well start with what is on your feet.
