These are the best shoes to gift for Christmas
Whether for yourself, or for a loved one, these are the lace-ups, boots, loafers, and trainers to gift over the festive season.
Words: Chris Cotonou
Lace-ups. Boots. Loafers. Trainers. There is a shoe shape to suit anyone, and with Christmas fast approaching, there’s no excuse not to gift that special someone the shoes that really suit them, their lifestyle, and their tastes.
We've compiled a handy gift guide on a few of our favourite picks across the different shoe shapes; from fashion-conscious boots to scorpion-themed loafers, and classic work-appropriate Oxfords.
Wrap up a pair of lace-ups...
You can hardly go wrong with a pair of classic lace-up shoes, and Tod’s suede lace-ups pair with practically anything they have in their wardrobe. Made in Italy, and with an extra light rubber sole, they’re a marriage of style and practicality. As comfortable as they are easy on the eye.
If they’re more inclined to a formal style, however, Northampton masters Edward Green have a traditional black Cadogan shape, made with their famous 202 last here in England. The subtle broguing adds character, but they’re as versatile as it gets.
Traditional shapes more their thing? Church’s have produced the elegant Royal Calf Leather oxford shoe in a warm ebony tone. These are the boardroom choice—perfect for meetings—especially if the recipient usually wears a suit to work.
Boots made for walking (and much more)...
Winter is boot season. And when it comes to an everyday shoe, there's hardly a better shape to battle the elements. But that doesn't mean they need to forgo style, as Cheaney's elegantly-weathered Jaxson boot proves. We especially like the burnished effect in the unusual teal tone, which pairs well with darker and lighter colours.
If they're more fashion-conscious (without being garish) we recommend Myrqvist's Funäs boot. The centre-zip is an understated talking point, and the style would look great in all-black ensembles, or as the unconventional addition to a classic suit.
Again, if tradition and heritage styling is what the recipient goes for, the Crockett & Jones Islay boot would be our suggestion. It is crafted with a number of features that make it practical, like storm welts, but the rough-out suede makes it a hard-wearing and smart investment.
Loafing around the Christmas tree...
Whether in cold or warm weather, a pair of loafers will always look elegant. If the recipient is tricky to shop for, a pair of penny loafers, like these by Italian cult brand Velasca, are fail-proof. Made with full-grain leather, and with a leather sole, there's hardly a more versatile choice out there.
But if they're more inclined to a daring shoe, we're loving Duke + Dexter's Wilde Scorpion loafer (which has shades of Ryan Gosling in Drive). In a two-tone colourway, they feature a scorpion digitally-printed on the vamp. The ideal pairing for Western-inspired ensembles.
For a more accessible price-point, why not go for Morjas' sleek tassel loafers? It comes in a variety of calf leathers and suedes, as well as a number of different colours. It is style for all occasions—but especially when wearing a pair of nicely cut jeans.
Tempting trainers...
Some people just aren't into their traditional shoes. But if you're going to gift them trainers, at least make an informed choice. LØCI's minimalist shoes are not only sleek, but they're also sustainably-made. The cult brand's ATOM shoe is a real favourite, and is sure to please.
If they're an avid runner, might we point you over to Tracksmith? The fashionable running outfitter has released its first pair of trainers, the Eliot Runner—which is understated as well as supremely comfortable. One to wear out to the shops as well as through the park.
Finally, the most classic shapes are the biggest crowdpleasers. Paul & Shark have created the Always shoe—so named, presumably, because there's always an outfit or situation where they work. This is a tennis shape elevated with high quality bovine leather, as well as the brand's subtle embossing on the side.
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