Best foot forward: six pairs of shoes to upgrade your summer outfits
From luxe loafers to sporty sneakers, a new pair of shoes will transform your seasonal ensembles
Words: Jemima Wilson
Considered a barometer of style and taste, you can tell a lot about a man from his choice of shoes. Indeed, it is often the first thing others will notice about your overall attire. Therefore, when it comes to styling your ensembles this summer, rather than being an afterthought, your footwear selection should be one of the first things you think about when putting your outfits together. What’s more, a new pair of shoes can instantly refresh your wardrobe and add flair to your look, as well as ensuring you’re comfortable on your feet all day.
Whether it’s a pair of effortlessly elegant loafers for a summer holiday or smart-casual trainers for everyday wear, we suggest six shoe styles you shouldn’t be without…
Løci Maize Nine Sneakers
Environmentally-conscious trendsetters need look no further than LØCI’s Maize Collection – created from an eco-friendly and cruelty-free alternative to leather, which fuses 50% non-food grade corn waste with a durable, water resistant polyurethan. Modelled on a classic tennis shoe, this sneaker teams perfectly with unstructured tailoring for a relaxed yet refined look, and because it took nine unique developments to perfect, it not only looks great but feels even better, knowing it’s a sustainable and vegan choice.
Aurelien Navy Yacht Loafers
To give the impression you’ve just stepped off your yacht in the Med (even if you haven’t), pair Aurelien’s Navy Yacht Loafers with rolled-up chinos and a linen shirt for the ultimate, effortlessly elegant nautical look. Drawing inspiration from the sophisticated yet carefree Mediterranean lifestyle, these loafers should be a summer holiday staple, which you can dress up or down depending on the formality of the occasion. (Just remember to take them off when you hop on board!)
North 89 No.2 Cloud (Breathable) Sneakers
Hot summer days call for lightweight, breathable footwear, and North 89’s No. 2 Cloud court-inspired sneakers have been specially designed in cotton mesh and perforated leather versions to keep your feet cool and comfortable all day long. With sleek lines and athleisure details, the shoe features a comfortable memory foam insole, durable nylon laces and a rubber cup sole. Handcrafted in Portugal by skilled shoemaking artisans in a family-owned factory, these sneakers will add a chic, utilitarian edge to any sporty ensemble.
Crockett & Jones Boston Loafers
Hand-crafted in Northampton, the capital of British shoemaking, by the traditional Goodyear-welted construction method, Crockett & Jones shoes possess an exceptional combination of comfort, elegance and durability. The Boston style is a classic penny loafer made in the finest black suede leather, with a flexible leather sole and open stitching that is stained and waxed to provide protection from the elements. Perfect for city breaks and country retreats alike.
UNSEEN FOOTWEAR Marais Suede and Leather Sneakers in Fog
For those who favour discreet detailing over branding and logos, Unseen Footwear’s products are completely unbranded – a reaction against the ‘logo mania’ of the modern fashion world –characterised by an effortlessly stylish minimalist design. Made in Italy from locally-sourced leathers (with a low carbon footprint), its Marais two-tone leather sneakers feature debossed insoles and chunky rubber soles with a textured tread, bringing Italian flair to robust, everyday trainers.
UNIFORM STANDARD Series 1 Triple Suede Sneakers in Earth
Founded in 2018, every Uniform Standard shoe is created with a combination of a minimal British design aesthetic, the finest quality Italian leathers and sustainable recycled components. With its clean lines, premium Italian suede and hand finished details, this shoe is built on a low profile cupsole with a full leather lining and moulded footbed to provide support and comfort. What’s more, the recycled materials also mean they’re incredibly eco-friendly, and the neutral Earth colourway is extremely versatile for summer.
Want more summer footwear inspiration? Check out the best white sneakers to buy right now…
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