Shopping Style
What Color Shoes to Wear with a Navy Suit?
Jan
When it comes to dressing for formal occasions, a navy suit is a timeless and versatile option. Its deep, rich color can make any man look sharp, sophisticated, and put-together. However, when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes to go with your navy suit, many men often find themselves at a loss. Should they go for classic black, or something more daring like brown or even white? In this article, we will explore the different options for shoes that will complement a navy suit and help you make a stylish statement.
1. Classic Black Shoes
Black shoes are a staple in every man’s wardrobe. They are versatile, appropriate for most occasions, and easy to match with any outfit. When it comes to a navy suit, a pair of classic black shoes can never go wrong. Whether you opt for dress shoes or loafers, black shoes will always add an elegant touch to your ensemble.
Why black shoes work with a navy suit
The main reason why black shoes work so well with a navy suit is because they create a nice contrast. The dark, rich color of a navy suit paired with the starkness of black shoes creates a sharp, polished look. This combination is perfect for formal events such as weddings, job interviews, or business meetings.
How to style black shoes with a navy suit
To achieve a timeless and sophisticated look, pair your navy suit with a pair of black oxford shoes. This classic style features a closed lacing system and a sleek silhouette, making it the go-to choice for formal occasions. For a more modern and casual take, you can also opt for black loafers or monk strap shoes. These styles offer a bit more versatility and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Pros and cons of black shoes
Pros:
- Timeless and versatile choice
- Appropriate for most occasions
- Easy to match with any outfit
Cons:
- Can be seen as a safe and predictable option
- May not add enough character or personality to an outfit
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Timeless and versatile choice | Can be seen as a safe and predictable option |
| Appropriate for most occasions | May not add enough character or personality to an outfit |
| Easy to match with any outfit |
2. Brown Shoes
Often considered a more daring and stylish choice, brown shoes are another great option to pair with a navy suit. Depending on the shade of brown, they can add warmth and depth to your outfit, creating a more unique and eye-catching look.
Why brown shoes work with a navy suit
Similar to black shoes, brown shoes also create a nice contrast against the deep color of a navy suit. However, the warmth of brown can add a touch of personality and playfulness to an otherwise traditional outfit. This makes it a great option for events that call for a more creative or relaxed dress code.
How to style brown shoes with a navy suit
For a classic and sophisticated look, opt for a pair of dark brown oxford shoes. This style compliments the navy suit without being too distracting. If you want to make more of a statement, you can go for lighter shades of brown such as tan or cognac. These colors will add more contrast and make your outfit stand out. Keep in mind that the lighter the shade of brown, the less formal the shoe will be.
Pros and cons of brown shoes
Pros:
- Adds warmth and personality to an outfit
- More versatile than black shoes
- Can make a statement without being too bold
Cons:
- May not be appropriate for all occasions
- Can be harder to match with other pieces of clothing
- Lighter shades may be seen as less formal
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adds warmth and personality to an outfit | May not be appropriate for all occasions |
| More versatile than black shoes | Can be harder to match with other pieces of clothing |
| Can make a statement without being too bold | Lighter shades may be seen as less formal |
3. Burgundy Shoes
For those who want to make a bolder statement, burgundy shoes are the perfect choice to pair with a navy suit. This rich and deep shade of red can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any outfit.
Why burgundy shoes work with a navy suit
Burgundy is a unique and unexpected color choice that can elevate a traditional navy suit. Similar to brown shoes, it adds warmth and depth to an outfit while also making a statement. The combination of these two colors creates a stylish and confident look.
How to style burgundy shoes with a navy suit
When wearing burgundy shoes with a navy suit, it’s important to keep the rest of your outfit simple and classic. Stick to neutral colors such as white, gray, or navy for your shirt and tie. This will allow the shoes to be the focal point of your outfit. For a more casual option, you can also pair burgundy sneakers with a navy suit. This will give off a more modern and edgy vibe.
Pros and cons of burgundy shoes
Pros:
- Makes a statement and adds personality to an outfit
- Adds warmth and depth to a navy suit
- Can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion
Cons:
- Not suitable for all occasions
- May be harder to match with other pieces of clothing
- Requires confidence to pull off
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Makes a statement and adds personality to an outfit | Not suitable for all occasions |
| Adds warmth and depth to a navy suit | May be harder to match with other pieces of clothing |
| Can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion | Requires confidence to pull off |
4. White Shoes
For a more modern and fashion-forward look, white shoes can be a great option to pair with a navy suit. While this may seem like an unconventional choice, when done right, white shoes can add a touch of freshness and sophistication to your outfit.
Why white shoes work with a navy suit
The contrast between the dark navy suit and the crisp white shoes creates a bold and stylish look. This combination is perfect for events that call for a more relaxed dress code. White shoes also add a touch of brightness and playfulness to an outfit, making them a great choice for spring and summer occasions.
How to style white shoes with a navy suit
When wearing white shoes with a navy suit, it’s important to make sure they are clean and in good condition. Any scuff marks or dirt will be very noticeable against the dark color of the suit. Opt for white sneakers or loafers for a more casual look, or go for white oxford shoes for a slightly more formal option. Keep the rest of your outfit simple and let the shoes make the statement.
Pros and cons of white shoes
Pros:
- Modern and fashion-forward choice
- Adds brightness and playfulness to an outfit
- Versatile and can be dressed up or down
Cons:
- Not suitable for all occasions
- Can be harder to keep clean and maintain
- Requires confidence and attention to detail
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Modern and fashion-forward choice | Not suitable for all occasions |
| Adds brightness and playfulness to an outfit | Can be harder to keep clean and maintain |
| Versatile and can be dressed up or down | Requires confidence and attention to detail |
5. Tan Shoes
For a more casual and relaxed look, tan shoes can be a great choice to pair with a navy suit. This light and warm color adds a touch of summer vibes to any outfit and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Why tan shoes work with a navy suit
The contrast between the dark navy suit and the light tan shoes creates an interesting and stylish look. This combination is perfect for outdoor events or occasions that call for a more casual dress code. Tan shoes also add a touch of warmth and personality to an outfit, making them a great choice for spring and summer.
How to style tan shoes with a navy suit
When wearing tan shoes with a navy suit, it’s important to keep the rest of your outfit in a similar warm color palette. Opt for beige or light brown chinos or pants and a white or light blue shirt. This will create a cohesive and put-together look. Keep in mind that tan shoes may not be appropriate for formal events, so stick to more casual occasions.
Pros and cons of tan shoes
Pros:
- Adds a touch of summer vibes to an outfit
- Can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion
- Versatile and easy to match with other pieces of clothing
Cons:
- Not suitable for all occasions
- May be harder to maintain and keep clean
- Lighter shades may be seen as less formal
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adds a touch of summer vibes to an outfit | Not suitable for all occasions |
| Can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion | May be harder to maintain and keep clean |
| Versatile and easy to match with other pieces of clothing | Lighter shades may be seen as less formal |
FAQs
What color shoes should I wear with a navy suit for a job interview?
For a job interview, it’s best to stick to classic and safe options. Black or dark brown shoes would be the most appropriate choice as they are versatile and give off a professional vibe.
Can I wear white shoes with a navy suit in the winter?
While white shoes are often seen as a summer color, they can definitely be worn in the winter as well. Just make sure to pair them with heavier fabrics and darker tones to balance out the brightness of the shoes.
Are burgundy shoes suitable for formal occasions?
Burgundy shoes can definitely be worn for formal occasions, especially if you opt for a more classic style such as oxfords. Just make sure to keep the rest of your outfit in a similar color palette to maintain a polished look.
Can I wear tan shoes with a navy suit to a wedding?
Tan shoes can be a great option to wear to a wedding, especially if it’s a more casual or outdoor event. Just make sure to keep the rest of your outfit in light and warm tones to create a cohesive look.
Is it acceptable to wear brown shoes with a navy suit to a black-tie event?
No, it is not appropriate to wear brown shoes to a black-tie event. Stick to classic black shoes for a more formal dress code.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes to go with your navy suit, there are plenty of options to consider. Whether you go for classic black, bold and stylish burgundy, or something more unconventional like white or tan, the key is to choose a pair that complements your personal style and the occasion you’re dressing for. With this guide, you can confidently put together a stylish and put-together outfit that will make a statement wherever you go.
