Warmer weather means it’s time to update your selection of shoes accordingly. In today’s “Commandments of Style,” we’ll be taking a look at my top five picks for shoes to add to your wardrobe this summer. Shoes are an essential part of your style to never skimp on. They can make or break an outfit, and summertime means that shoes should be chosen carefully for comfort along with style. When it comes to putting something between you and the ground, function is just as important as form.

Clarks Desert Boots in Beeswax

Buy Here: Clarks Bushacre 2 Chukka Boot -Beeswax ($79.99)

Dress them up or dress them down, these boots are perfect for every season. Working well along with khakis or jeans, Clarks are the perfect casual shoes to throw on when you head out for brunch or a night out.  These are great for traveling as well, easy-on and easy-off at the airport.  There are many imitators, but since the original Clarks can be found for less than $80, there’s no reason to not stick with the tried-and-true. Though they’re also available in a multitude of colors, this beeswax brown goes with everything and the leather has a great worn look as it breaks in. You can’t fake a quality patina, and a good broken-in pair of desert boots tells a story about their owner.

Colorful Suede Tennis Shoes

Buy Here: Puma Men’s Suede Classic Sneakers ($65)

Summer is a great time to update your casual shoe collection and these Puma Suedes are the real deal.  Upgrade those running shoes you’re wearing with jeans, chinos and shorts and throw these on instead.  Wear sockless (or with no-show socks) and make them your go-to casual shoes this summer.  Available in a number of colors, if you are more reserved, try the Navy Blue Suede ($65) , but if you’d like to add a little color get the brighter blue or burgundy ones shown above.

Leather Boat Shoes

Buy Here: Sperry AO 2 Eye Daytona Leather Boat Shoes-Grey ($100)

It seems like everyone has boat shoes.   Most are canvas and although those work fine, an easy way to upgrade your style this summer is to opt for a leather pair in grey (as show above) or navy blue.  Those colors are flexible enough to go with everything, and a durable pair of Sperrys just might be the most versatile shoes you can have for summer.

Cognac Brown Dress Loafers

Buy Here: Oliver Wicks Cognac Penny Loafers ($250)

The penny loafer is a classic for a reason, and lends itself well to a wide range of activities and environments besides loafing. These shoes are a beautiful addition to your summer shoe collection, made in versatile leather and timeless style. A pair of nice penny loafers that are updated with a modern shape and flair are well worth the cost, and Oliver Wicks makes of the best shoes of this style in the business.

Lighter Color Suede Shoes

Buy Here: Gordon Rush Suede Double Monks ($129.99)

These spectacular lighter color shoes might not be for everyone, but they certainly make a statement. Much like white pants, there’s a time and a place for this footwear — but when it works, it works. They’re perfect for summer, equipped with a rubber sole and the perfect off-white shade for wear in hotter months.

 

Durham resident, world traveler, gentleman-about-town — Matthew Coppedge lives by the Commandments of Style. You can check back here on Chapelboro regularly to follow his journey, find new looks, explore refinements on old favorites and peruse seasonal style guides to suit the taste of the times.
“The Commandments of Style,” and all associated content, is exclusively produced by Matthew Coppedge
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