5 pairs of shoes every man should have in his wardrobe

Footwear. It's tricky business gents - as if you've not already put enough effort in to your outfit to worry about finishing it off with the correct pair of shoes. 

Here's a list of a simple staple shoe wardrobe that should leave you with something for all occasions and outfits.

1. Casual brogues
A night out, a date, pretty much with all of your casual wardrobe should you want to look a bit more stylish.
These are best in brown leathers choose a tumbled leather (this is where the leather looks slightly creased) or a grey suede for a slightly more casual still look.

(photo courtesy of jonathantrumbull.co.uk)

(photo courtesy of marksandspencer.com)

2. Work formal
When looking for formal attire it is important amongst all other things that you buy into quality as well as style. Go for something that goes with everything. A personal favourite is the monk shoe. Slightly less common and still as versatile as the popular brogue.

(photo courtesy of pockets.co.uk)

Designers such as Jimmy Choo are known for favouring the monk shoe style. This is an understated classic which shows a flair for design. If you are feeling adventurous this style comes in many variations and materials.

3. Boots
A staple of your winter wardrobe. Go for something comfortable and casual. NO UGG BOOTS!

(photo courtesy of aldoshoes.com)

(photo courtesy of next.co.uk)

(photo courtesy of next.co.uk)

4. Sneakers
For your truly casual moments. Converse are acceptable - so long as you don't have huge feet. Vans are also fine. If you're buying a cheaper imitation make sure you keep an eye out for wear and tear. Scruffy shoes ruin an outfit. Also, no bright reds greens or pinks!

5. Deck shoes
Controversial. Love them or hate them, they are rather versatile. With a pair of shorts, jeans or chinos they will go with most outfits. If your not wearing them with socks. beware of the pong. Us ladies will notice.
Here's some great ones....

(photo courtesy of dunelondon.co.uk)

(photo courtesy of marksandspencer.com)

Above all else, try to understand a bit about what you are buying.
When buying footwear set your price you want to pay. Anything above £70 i would be expecting a leather shoe. Brands such as Kurt Geiger are well known for first class design however do not deliver on the make up of their product. For a middle of the range stylish shoe, my personal favourite is Aldo (wait for the sale or a 20% off promotion for extra value)

Please also know this. Although spending a fair amount of money on footwear is advisable to buy into footwear which will be durable and high in quality - it doesn't always suit to pay the high end prices.
Particularly in formal footwear, leather soles are highly sought after and you may hear men who think they know about style talking about being preferable to a leather sole... Unfortunately leather soles have one major downfall. RAIN. Leather is as we know skin - this does not make it water proof. In fact, it absorbed water. Not great to wear on the bottom of your feet.

Lastly. As mentioned above, leather absorbs water. Protect your shoes well be they suede, leather, textile or plastic. The fresh out of the box look will hold greater for longer by using shoe care.
Here are a few of my  favourites.

(Photo courtesy of aldoshoes.com)