My Favorite Fall/Winter 2023 Formal Shoes

It’s a great season for classic men’s shoes. I totally agree with the old adage that you should never try to save money on shoes or beds, because if you don’t buy one, you’ll probably buy the other!

Oxford.
Often seen as the most conservative and formal type of men’s shoe. You will most likely wear these when you want to impress the most, whether it’s in a formal social setting or in a job interview. So, if you’re spending a little extra on a pair of shoes, this is where I’d put my money.

CHURCH’S CONSUL 173: Oxford calf leather £940
These are perfectly suited to the formal occasions you wear them for. Best worn with a gray or blue casual suit, or with a dinner suit if polished properly. This is good for Fall/Winter 2023 and beyond.

RUSSELL & BROMLEY: BORIS lace-up oxfords £245.00
The overall design is roughly the same as above, but at a cheaper price and still great quality. Russell & Bromley are a reliable staple of men’s footwear and are always worth a look. These are said to run a little larger than most shoes, so it’s best to try them on in store.

Brogues.
We’ve all heard Kingsman say “an oxford is not a brogue”, but of course, it’s entirely possible for an oxford to come with a brogue. The former term refers to the “closed” lacing system (as opposed to the “open” lacing system of “derby” shoes). Brogue trim refers to decorative leatherwork, usually located on the front of the shoe. These are my brogues for the season, which happen to be derby shoes, and I think the brown color is better.

Russel & Bromley: SOUTHPORT Rubber Sole Derby £245.00
The Russel and Bromley website suggests that these are best worn with chinos, which is probably how most men wear them. However, I’d happily wear them with dark wash jeans and, if polished properly, with a blue blazer. They’re a little more versatile than a regular black toe, so they’ll get a lot of use.

Boots
HARRYS OF LONDON: City Calfskin, Black £650
You’ve heard of Victorian ‘suits and boots’, which may seem a little odd given that we tend to think of boots as country wear these days. However, you can always rely on Harrys of London to provide something fit for the City of London. They have good ankle support, good traction and are styled to be worn with suits, chinos, jeans etc. I’ll probably wear these at Christmas.

Somewhat different
Russell & Russell BROMLEY: CARMEL Soft Stirrups £245.00
For something a little different, preferably with chinos or linen pants, I’d go for these. They come in a range of pastel colors and I’d probably go for the default purple, although it looks pink to me. Perfect for a winter vacation in the Mediterranean or hanging out with loved ones around a winter campfire.