The right shoes finish a suit, and the wrong ones undermine it. Here is a simple pairing guide.
| Suit color | Best shoe color |
|---|---|
| Navy | Brown or black |
| Charcoal / grey | Black or brown |
| Light grey | Brown or black |
| Tan / beige | Brown |
| Black / black tie | Black |
The simple rules
Black shoes are more formal and are required for black tie. Brown shoes are more versatile and lean daytime and business casual. When in doubt for a formal event, choose black; for daytime, brown is rarely wrong.
Match your belt
Your belt should match your shoes in color and finish. Brown shoes, brown belt; black shoes, black belt. It is a small detail that pulls the whole look together.
Styles
Oxfords are the most formal, followed by derbies, then loafers for a relaxed look. For Florida weddings and warm events, a clean loafer with a lighter suit works beautifully.
Complete the look
We build the suit, and we are happy to advise on shoes and details at your fitting. Explore custom suits and current offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color shoes go with a navy suit?
Brown or black both work with navy. Brown is more versatile for daytime and business casual, while black is more formal.
What shoes should I wear with a tan suit?
Brown shoes in a range of shades pair best with tan and beige. Avoid black, which clashes with the warm palette.
Should my belt match my shoes?
Yes. Match your belt to your shoes in color and finish for a pulled-together look: brown with brown, black with black.
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