Ask The Expert is a monthly column to answer your questions on topics related to fashion and beauty.
Here, Zaid Arif, founder of local brand Zeve Shoes, weighs in on men’s most pressing footwear questions.
Are sneakers still an appropriate footwear style for men in smart-casual or semi-formal settings? – David, Ampang
Sneakers are still fine. The hype peaked, but sneakers didn’t die. What changed is the standard.
For smart casual, sneakers work as long as they look intentional – clean, minimal, good material, no bulky running sole, no loud branding.
The moment a sneaker looks “tired”, it stops being smart and it becomes weekend only.
For semi formal, I’m more careful. Can it work? Yes, but only when the outfit is built around that modern look.
With tailored trousers, the sneakers have to be of a premium design – and spotlessly clean.
If it’s a wedding, a client dinner, or you want to look sharp without trying too hard though, proper leather shoes will always be the best choice.
Read more: In Malaysia and beyond, sneaker hype fades but remains central to modern fashion
What are the signs of a well-made pair of leather shoes, and what should I look for when shopping for one? – Zahid, Shah Alam
The leather should feel dense and supple, not shiny or plastic-y, because that kind usually doesn’t age well.
I look at the stitching too – it should be tight, even and clean. Loose threads are an instant red flag.
Pick the shoe up to feel the structure. It should feel solid, not hollow or flimsy.
Check the sole and heel for neat alignment, clean finishing and no weird glue marks, as well.
Also, consider the comfort factor. If it hurts when you wear it in the store, you can’t just hope it will eventually “break in”.
And one thing people often forget – fit is part of quality too. Even a fantastic shoe in the wrong size will look and feel off.
How many pairs of shoes do I need to cover work, weekends and formal occasions? Can just one style be enough? - Gino, Cheras
Most men don’t need a huge shoe collection. Four to six pairs is usually the sweet spot.
You want one pair for work, one you can take from work to dinner, a sneaker for weekends, and a proper formal pair. Optional extras could be a boot or a casual sandal for travel.
Can one style be enough? Technically, yes, but it’s not ideal.
If I had to pick just one, I’d go for a dark brown loafer or derby – versatile enough for work, weekends and even semi-formal occasions.
The biggest reason to have more than one pair is simple: humidity and sweat.
Wearing the same shoes every day doesn’t give them a chance to rest and dry properly, and that’s how shoes wear out fast in our climate.
Is it ever acceptable to wear loafers or sandals with socks, and if so, how should it be styled? – Norman, JB
Wearing socks with shoes works when it looks deliberate, not accidental.
Loafers with socks can actually look very sharp, especially when paired with tailored trousers and socks that are tonal, matching the pants, or just clean and simple.
The mistake is letting socks become a random, loud distraction that the rest of the outfit can’t support.
Sandals with socks are more of a streetwear or casual move. It can work, but only if the whole outfit is relaxed.
Keep the sandals and socks clean and simple, and avoid messy combinations. If you’re aiming to look proper or polished, I’d skip it.
How can I keep my shoes looking good in a hot, humid climate? – Nik, Kuantan
In Malaysia, the enemy is moisture, not dust. Rotate your shoes and don’t wear the same pair every day.
Use shoe trees or at least stuff the shoe so it holds shape and dries properly.
Also, wipe down after wear – sweat and dirt build up faster than you think.
Remember to only condition lightly. Don’t over condition or the leather gets too soft. Polish smart too. Use a cream polish for overall care and colour.
Wax only on toe and heel if you want shine.
Finally, store your shoes properly. Let them breathe and don’t trap them in a sealed storage.
Read more: Ask The Expert: Grooming and style tips every modern man needs to know
Are chunky soles and statement shoes still in style, or should I move back to slim, classic silhouettes? – Dave, Penang
The extreme chunky trend is cooling. Now, it’s more about proportion.
If your wardrobe is relaxed – with wider trousers and boxy tops, chunky shoes can feel balanced.
But if you dress sharper or more classic, a clean silhouette will always age better.
My take? Keep one statement pair if you love it, but build the foundation of your wardrobe with timeless shapes.
Classic doesn’t mean boring – it means you can wear it for years and it will always look right.
What footwear mistakes do men commonly make? – Don, Klang
I’ll be blunt – most outfits get ruined from the ground up.
Never ever wear dirty shoes. Even the most expensive clothes will look cheap if your footwear is grimy.
The wrong type of shoes also kills a look – running sneakers with a tailored suit, or shiny dress shoes with very casual clothes, just doesn’t work.
Bad sizing matters too. Shoes that are too long, too narrow or slipping at the heel instantly look sloppy.
Other pitfalls include overdone square toes, cheap-looking leather with heavy shine that falls apart visually, worn heels, or uneven soles.
People might not notice such things consciously, but they can bring down your style easily.
Do you have any questions on fashion and beauty? Email us with the subject heading Ask The Expert at lifestyle@thestar.com.my. Please include your name, address, contact number and if you prefer, a pseudonym.
