I was thinking about getting a nice pair of dress shoes, and wanted some suggestions on what shoes to get that fit my criteria. Namely really good quality leather with a really sharp toe; but at prices that are more reasonable and not designer prices. Does anyone have any recommendations for shoes that would fit what I am looking for? Also I'd greatly prefer a U.S. company, as I really don't like having to deal with international shipping with clothing items like this. I appreciate any suggestions given.
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Recommendations for men's dress shoes?
- Thread starter Lorinz
- Start date
Imo the best value (and one of the best makers in the world in general) is Winson.
It's an Indonesian company but the prices start around 400$ and the quality is comparable to 2000$+ bespoke shoes.
If you want something rtw enzo bonafe has some really good value handwelted dress shoes.
(I know none of the companies I mentioned is US based but I don't think there is a us based company that can even approach the quality to price ratio or those companies)
It's an Indonesian company but the prices start around 400$ and the quality is comparable to 2000$+ bespoke shoes.
If you want something rtw enzo bonafe has some really good value handwelted dress shoes.
(I know none of the companies I mentioned is US based but I don't think there is a us based company that can even approach the quality to price ratio or those companies)
Carmina also offers some nice pairs and they have stores in the US but their shoes are machine lasted and Goodyear welted in comparison to hand lasting and handwelting
I'd say from a few hundred dollars to around $500 or $600. For these kind of shoes I don't really know what the price points are for them to be worth it. I do know that I want to avoid going into the really high prices designer items get into, where you're getting into almost $1,000 and such.
I don't know how many people here would be advising you to pick up designer stuff anyway, with some exceptions maybe like RRL/RLPL on sale.
Do you prefer shoes or boots? Slip on or lace?
You've left the specifics pretty vague so far but your price point will cover a lot of good stuff.
I was looking for a men's dress shoe, admittedly I'm not very knowledgeable about that kind of shoe. I already have boots, its shoes I'm looking for. As for lace or slip on, I wasn't sure, I'd assume lace. I'm generally thinking of "gentleman" style shoes, if that makes sense, but with a sharper toe as opposed to a round or blunt shaped one. Hopefully that helps.
Davidchee5
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This is the wayView attachment 641385 View attachment 641385
Dress shoes! Even the name sucks ass.
I refuse to own a pair. Made it 50 years that way.
“Gentleman style”? I don’t know what this means. Do you mean shoes to be worn with a suit?
US makers are not known for sleek lasts or pointy toes. For that you’ll likely have to look else where, like Italy and Spain. Unless you’re looking for cowboy boots.
All GYW RTW & MTM shoes are basically made the same using the same materials, regardless of whether you pay 200 or 2000. Hand lasting does not produce better quality or longevity, hand welting will not last appreciably longer then GYW while being far more expensive to resole (as it needs to be done by hand). It’s really all mostly marketing and some elitism. Truly bespoke shoes are a completely different ballgame, but even here mostly because of fit & customisation, not so much durability.
You are really looking at pretty minor details like stich density, consistency in selecting good quality pieces of hide with few undesirable marks or scratches, sole & heel finishing, leather board vs celastic toe stiffness etc.
None of this is all that important & much of it is purely personal preference and aesthetics.
I’d say don’t use any sleep over it. I’d say the last is the most important thing. Make sure they use an actual veg tan insole and a natural filler like cork or leather. Once you get to that level they’re basically all the same.
I find Carmina uses very sleek and elegant lasts that fit what you are looking for. Plus they offer a broad selection of models and lasts.
All GYW RTW & MTM shoes are basically made the same using the same materials, regardless of whether you pay 200 or 2000. Hand lasting does not produce better quality or longevity, hand welting will not last appreciably longer then GYW while being far more expensive to resole (as it needs to be done by hand). It’s really all mostly marketing and some elitism. Truly bespoke shoes are a completely different ballgame, but even here mostly because of fit & customisation, not so much durability.
You are really looking at pretty minor details like stich density, consistency in selecting good quality pieces of hide with few undesirable marks or scratches, sole & heel finishing, leather board vs celastic toe stiffness etc.
None of this is all that important & much of it is purely personal preference and aesthetics.
I’d say don’t use any sleep over it. I’d say the last is the most important thing. Make sure they use an actual veg tan insole and a natural filler like cork or leather. Once you get to that level they’re basically all the same.
I find Carmina uses very sleek and elegant lasts that fit what you are looking for. Plus they offer a broad selection of models and lasts.
Fuggn’ A right. If I have to cram my foot into some god awful shit sack shoe I won’t wear even once a year, merely for of my attendance, I’m not going! Chances are I’ll get too drunk and ruin it anyway. Saves both parties embarrassment.
jchance
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Allen Edmonds, Alden (shoemaker for Brooks Brothers), Crockett Jones (shoemaker for Ralph Lauren), Edward Green, John Lobb. The first two are American makers.
Best money can buy is John Lobb bespoke. It’s like walking on cloud even though it’s leather, very very comfortable. About $7,000 new but you can get them used for less than $800.
If I were you, I’d try on Allen Edmonds at Nordstrom and look for them on eBay.
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Marc mndt
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