MATCHING MENS SHOES WITH SUITS

Always remember that formality of dress shoes begins from the darkness of its color. For example, black is always the most formal color while light brown is the least formal. So you should match your shoes against your suits or pants based on the occasion. If you are attending a formal business dinner, then naturally black shoes are your ultimate choice rather than brown shoes.

Of late, there are more men wearing light brown or camel colored dress shoes against their dark colored suits or pants. These high contrast creates a very trendy style which I personally like. However, we should also note that this combination gives a more casual feel toward it.

What if the suit or pants are brown-based colors like olive or chocolate colors? Must we definitely wear it against brown shoes? Not necessarily, black shoes are just as fine. Of course, brown shoes would let the color flow very smoothly but black is still a color that can fit nicely. Remember that black is the color for formal.

Lace-up shoes are one step better than slip-ons for their formality. At the same time, lace-ups are split into Balmoral and Blucher types. Refer to Mens Dress Shoes Styles for their differences. The latter is always considered less formal because of its open throat design.

So remember that whether you want a formal or casual look would depend on your choice of two criteria: the dress shoe style and its color.

MEN'S SUITS - BUY A GREAT SUIT

The Details You're Looking For:

Flower Loop:
Stitched by hand under the lapel to hold the base of the flower that few men ever wear anymore, it's the kind of detail that shows the tailor cares about tradition. And tradition, in matters of tailoring, is a good thing.

Hand-Stitched Sleeve Lining:

A sure sign the shoulder will fit closely and comfortably. Check the inside seam where the arm meets the body: If it's been sewn by hand, you'll see barely perceptible creases or pleats where the two cloths come together.

Hand-Finished Interior Pocket:

Check the internal left breast pocket: If it's set off by strips of the external fabric, that means it's been reinforced, so it's better able to stow your wares without sagging.

Hidden Pocket:

It's a credit-card-sized compartment that conceals valuable possessions right next to your family jewels. Beyond useful, believe us, especially if you're walking the shadier streets of suit maker Isaia's hometown of Naples.

Vented Pleats:
This subtle fold falls just below the internal waistband and ensures a good fit. It also helps prevent tucked-in shirts from bagging or slipping out.

AFRICAN FASHION

LATEST TRENDS

Animal prints are huge this season -- especially leopard -- so you'll be seeing everything from ballet flats to handbags pop up in this fun print.