"What shoe do I wear with my tuxedo" is a question I hear quite often. Many people believe you have to wear patent leather shoes with a tuxedo. But simply put, you absolutely do not have to wear patent leather shoes with a tuxedo. This comes down to personal preference. If you like the shiny look of patent leather shoes, then by all means pair it with your tuxedo. But just like some people do not like the satin stripe going down the side of the tuxedo pants, many people do not like the look of patent leather shoes. If you don't like that look, or even if you don't mind that look, but already have a nice pair of plain black leather dress shoes, that 100% works as well. They can be either a slip on or lace up plain black dress shoe. I do not recommend wearing a fancy wingtip shoe as a sleek and plain shoe look pair much better with a tuxedo. Go with a plain toe, cap toe, or one piece style as it looks smooth and sleek to pair with your tuxedo.
As a groom, you could wear a patent leather tuxedo shoe as a way to stand out from your groomsmen. They can wear a black leather dress shoe while you add some pop to your outfit with the patent leather. This is just one of many ways the groom can stand out from the groomsmen.
Many people like the suede look to pair with a tuxedo, and that works as well. To sum up what shoe should be worn with a tuxedo, it can be either patent leather, plain leather, or a beautiful suede shoe. Make sure it fits properly, is recently polished, has fresh laces (if a lace up) and is not too wide especially if you're wearing a tapered slim fit tuxedo.
Dress well my friends!
FAQs
Traditionally, yes. Patent leather (think ultra-shiny) shoes are classically worn with a tux. However, wearing classic natural-finish leather that's well cared for and perfectly polished is just as acceptable, so don't feel the need to rush off and buy patent leather or high-shine shoes just for one event.
When should men wear patent leather shoes? ›
The sleek lines and flawless texture make patent leather shoes ideal for the most formal occasions, but also pair well at semi-formal and more casual times.
Can you wear penny loafers with a tuxedo? ›
However, if you want our say on the matter, there are only two options worth wearing a tux with: loafers and slippers. These two styles offer the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. They're both slip-on shoes, so you won't have to worry about laces getting in the way or coming undone.
What is the point of patent leather? ›
Patent leather is a type of leather that has been treated with a high-gloss coating to create a shiny and reflective surface. This process makes the leather more durable and resistant to scuffs and scratches, and also makes it easier to clean and maintain.
Can you wear matte shoes with a tuxedo? ›
Matte shoes are a bit more flexible than their patent leather counterparts in terms of choice. You can wear a pair of black matte shoes with a suit or a tuxedo.
Can you wear a tuxedo without patent leather shoes? ›
Traditionally, yes. Patent leather (think ultra-shiny) shoes are classically worn with a tux. However, wearing classic natural-finish leather that's well cared for and perfectly polished is just as acceptable, so don't feel the need to rush off and buy patent leather or high-shine shoes just for one event.
Can men wear patent leather shoes with a suit? ›
There are a few different options when it comes to shoes to wear with a tuxedo. For a more classic look, a man could wear black patent leather oxfords.
What shoes not to wear with tuxedo? ›
As a rule of thumb, with black tie events, less is more; avoid brogues, even quarter-brogues, and derby shoes and the fewer pieces to the shoe, the better. Even cap-toe Oxford calf leather shoes you typically wear with your best black suit are too informal.
What should you not wear with a tuxedo? ›
Never wear a belt with formalwear. Suspenders may seem cool, but only if you're still in high school. Realistically, your tuxedo pants should have a strong waistband that fits securely around your waist, so there really isn't a need for a belt or suspenders. Resist the urge, no matter how strong.
What are the best shoes to wear with a tux? ›
Some popular shoe choices to wear with a tuxedo are patent leather oxfords, velvet loafers, and black or blue derby shoes. It's best to consider the formality of the wedding, as you'll want to dress appropriately for the affair.
The so-called patent leather benefits from a special treatment that gives it a shiny appearance. Thus, patent leather is a classier and more alluring variety of Leather. This distinctive quality makes patent leather unique from other types of Leather.
Can you wear shiny shoes with a tux? ›
Classic and Regal: Patent Leather Shoes
That reflective style obviously makes them a great choice for the traditional black tux, assuming you haven't gone for a fabric that dulls the color, such as velvet.
Can I wear a tuxedo without a cumme*rbund? ›
The cumme*rbund is a relatively recent addition to the evening-clothes. Wearing a cumme*rbund is not necessary and the only time it should be worn is with a single-breasted tuxedo. Feel free to wear just a bow tie and black suspenders when skipping the cumme*rbund.
What are the rules for wearing a tuxedo? ›
4 Important Rules of Tuxedo Etiquette To Remember
- Wear a cumme*rbund or Vest. You want to have a cumme*rbund or vest beneath your single-breasted tuxedo jacket. ...
- Never Wear a Belt. One of the most important rules of tuxedo etiquette to remember is that you should never wear a belt. ...
- Pick the Right Pocket Square. ...
- No Pant Cuffs.
There's some flexibility with what kind of shoe you can wear with a dress shoe, as is par for the course when it comes to menswear. Patent pumps and lace-ups are the most formal and "proper" of choices, but you can also get away with smoking slippers and even classic calfskin oxfords.
Can you wear patent leather shoes in the day? ›
Whether it's a formal event or a casual day out, black patent leather shoes can be a stylish and versatile choice.
Is patent leather trendy? ›
The truth is that they are a classic that never goes out of fashion, new trends are being born and patent leather shoes are being reinvented more and more. We can find them in moccasins, boots, belts, handbags and many more accessories.
