The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (2024)

When the wedding dress code is black tie, a tuxedo is an obvious choice for grooms, groomsmen, and wedding guests—but it doesn’t stop there. Tuxedo shoes are the finishing touch to formal attire and can range in style from simple and classic to colorful, textured, and patterned styles.

When choosing the right tuxedo shoe, it all starts with the type of tuxedo you’re wearing. You'll want your tuxedo shoes to match your tux and personal style, so consider their color, material, and finish. For example, if you're wearing a classic black tuxedo, you can’t go wrong with classic dress shoes like oxfords, slippers, monk strap shoes, and loafers in black with a shiny finish. Or you can make a statement with colorful, velvet, embellished, or patterned shoes. Meanwhile, brown shoes are a great neutral option to pair with bolder suits in colors such as teal and cobalt. Of course, finding a pair of tuxedo shoes that are equally as comfortable as they are stylish is essential. Make sure to try on your new kicks to ensure a comfortable fit made with high-quality construction and materials.

We researched various options with these features in mind to help you find the right tuxedo shoes for the big day. For classic black styles, our favorite picks are the To Boot New York Perry Venetian Loafer and Ralph Lauren Purple Label Paget Patent Leather Shoe. For a subtle pop of color and texture, you can't go wrong with the Saks Fifth Avenue COLLECTION Velvet Loafers.

If you don't want to wear socks with your tuxedo shoes, try wearing a pair of loafers. This style is a classic choice and provides a seamless look when worn without socks.

Read on for the best tuxedo shoes for grooms, groomsmen, and wedding guests.

Our Top Picks

Jump to Review

Best High-Shine

To Boot New York Perry Venetian Loafer

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (1)

For those seeking out a bold tuxedo shoe with timeless appeal, this Venetian loafer comes with a liquid-shine finish and elegant grosgrain trim. The upper is crafted from a leather and textile blend, meanwhile, the lining and sole are made from high-quality leather. It only comes in black and fits true to size. We suggest wearing it sans socks for a modern look.

Price at time of publish: $86

Best for a Winter Wedding

Saks Fifth Avenue COLLECTION Velvet Loafers

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (2)

Just a hint of color can liven up your wedding day look, and these regal velvet loafers with pops of blue are the perfect finishing touch to a formal winter wedding ensemble. They're constructed from high-quality, synthetic fabric and are easy to slip on. Even better, you can style these with or without socks depending on your preference. We recommend going sans socks for a clean and crisp look.

Price at time of publish: $298

Best for Minimalists

Suitsupply Black Tuxedo Loafer

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (3)

A sturdier take on the velvet slipper, this pair of black loafers offers a minimalist look for formal attire. This slip-on style is lightweight and flexible and made from softly textured velvet with trim piping. It has a durable blake stitch construction and a leather sole. It only comes in sleek black, so you can pair this with a pair of black socks for a chic finishing touch.

Most Comfortable

Calvin Klein Brodie Black Tuxedo Shoes

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (4)

This classic tuxedo shoe style from Calvin Klein is built for comfort, thanks to a cushioned insole. They're made from patent polyurethane with a shiny finish, and their black color makes them versatile enough to pair with any formal attire. We also love the lace-up front and square toe for a hint of sophistication.

Price at time of publish: $100

Most Classic

Kenneth Cole Tully Cap Toe Oxford

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (5)

If you're looking for a classic style, this leather cap-toe oxford is a winner. With a shiny finish, they’re a step up from your day-to-day dress shoes, making them the ideal tuxedo companion.They come in black and cognac color options and have an elastic, lace-up front for an easy slip-on style. For extra comfort, they are constructed with a cushioned insole.

Price at time of publish: $139

Best Oxfords

Joseph Abboud Soiree Patent Leather Dress Shoes

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (6)

A patent oxford is a tried-and-true classic when it comes to tuxedo shoes, and this style is no exception. With a plain toe and cushioned insole, this pair will be comfortable and make an impact at the same time. The shiny black upper is made from polyurethane, and it's fully lined with leather. We also love that this pair is offered in various widths to accommodate different foot sizes.

Price at time of publish: $125

Most Versatile

Florsheim Francisco Black Cap-Toe Oxfords

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (7)

For a tuxedo shoe that you can wear again and again with the rest of your suits and business casual attire, this cap-toe oxford shoe is a surefire choice. It comes in black and cognac color options, so you can find a pair to match classic and colorful suits alike. They have a soft cushioned interior for superior comfort and are made from genuine leather. We like that they have a shiny finish without being over the top, making them ideal for those who want a more subdued look.

Price at time of publish: $115

Best Budget

Calvin Klein Bernard Venetian Loafer

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (8)

If you're shopping for a high-shine, statement-making tuxedo shoe on a budget, look no further than this option from Calvin Klein. Ringing in under $120, it has an elegant grosgrain detailing and offers a contrasting texture to set your tuxedo look apart from others. These loafers are made from black patent leather and have a rubber outsole. Wear these without socks for a complete look.

Price at time of publish: $115

Best Patent Leather

BOSS Men's Eastside Plain Toe Oxfords

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (9)

For the groom whose personal style favors, clean, classic, and polished, you can't go wrong with this patent leather pair from Hugo Boss. With a lace-up front, an almond toe, and a black shiny finish, these shoes will complement a traditional tux—not detract from it. The brand notes that they fit large, so try ordering a size down if you're unsure and cannot try them on in-store.

Price at time of publish: $280

Most Timeless

Allen Edmonds Leeds Dress Plain-Toe Blucher Shoe

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (10)

For the groom who wants an expertly crafted shoe that isn't too shiny or overly statement-making, this Allen Edmonds pair is timeless and blends seamlessly with a black tux. The lace-up style comes in black and coffee color options and various shoe widths. They fit true to size and have a belch-welt construction for superior durability. The CustomCork insoles will mold to the shape of your foot and provide maximum comfortability, so you can wear them all day long for any event.

Price at time of publish: $395

Best Under $60

ASOS DESIGN Oxford Brogue Shoes in Black Leather

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (11)

For under $60, this pair provides you with a dapper finish to your classic tuxedo. They're made of a matte leather and textile blend and have a handsome Brogue detailing across the top of the shoe. The brand notes they have a wide fit, so it may not be the best option if you have narrower feet. Available in black, these shoes will pair well with casual and formal attire to get you through the entire wedding season.

Price at time of publish: $60

Best for the Traditional Groom

Brooks Brothers Black Patent Lace-Ups

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (12)

Formal shoes often get a bad rap for being stiff and slippery, but this style offers the flexibility and comfort of an athletic shoe with the sophistication of a dress shoe. Made from patent leather, these shoes come in black and have a high-shine finish that's great for traditional grooms. The rubber outsole features slippage-preventing stud treads and provides excellent traction. They also come in various widths, so it is easy to find a size that will accommodate any foot size.

Price at time of publish: $398

Best Monk Strap

Carlos by Carlos Santana Freedom Monk Strap Slip-On

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (13)

Show off your colorful personality in this polished pair of monk strap dress shoes. With a lightly padded footbed, they’re as comfortable as they are smart.They're available in medium width and are made from high-quality leather for superior durability. Even better, they come in black and a rich dark brown, so there's an option for every style.

Price at time of publish: $154

Best for the Fashion-Forward Groom

Manolo Blahnik Mario Velvet

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (14)

For a pop of color with a tuxedo, this burgundy velvet slipper is as stylish as ever. The leather lining will ensure hours of comfort and the grosgrain trims add some elegance. This pair is also available in navy, and it fits true to size. You can pair these with a tuxedo for formal events and wear them beyond the wedding season with cuffed chinos.

Price at time of publish: $795

Best High-Shine, Runner Up

Ralph Lauren Purple Label Paget Patent Leather Shoe

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (15)

For a patent-leather slipper that will last decades in your wardrobe, look no further than this shiny style from Ralph Lauren’s Purple Label collection. Its sleek and modern design with a lace-up front is crafted from patent leather and has a calfskin insole and lining. Although it's only available in black, you can wear this shoe on your wedding day and any other formal events you may attend in the future, making them particularly versatile. As a bonus, the brand offers free shipping and returns if you're not satisfied with your investment. Pair these with dress socks for a finished look.

Price at time of publish: $1,450

Best for a Formal Wedding

Paul Stuart Hope Velvet Slip-On

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (16)

A cross between your standard leather loafer and velvet slippers, this tasseled pair is a solid in-between style that's ideal for formal weddings. With hardy rubber soles and quilted satin lining, they’re comfortable and supportive while looking dapper as ever. The slip-on style is easy to put on, and the grosgrain trim feels regal and refined. They come in black and dark blue color options for classic and bold styles alike.

Price at time of publish: $295

Most Unique

Belvedere Karmelo

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (17)

For a navy, tan, or colored tuxedo, these brown leather oxfords are stylish and smart. The lizard texture and tassel detail add a unique flair, while the cushioned insole provides superior comfort. They also come in black if you're looking for a more classic and formal pair of tuxedo shoes.

Price at time of publish: $430

Best Wingtip Oxford

Cole Haan Men's Modern Classics Wingtip Oxford

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (18)

Cole Haan shoes are known for their comfort, and this pair is no exception. For a dress style to pair with a tuxedo, this derby oxford features a contoured footbed and rubber forefoot pod for traction and durability. They're available in medium and wide widths to accommodate various foot sizes, and they're made with full-grained oil leather uppers and a leather lining. The Salpa welt detailing adds a handsome touch, and the shoes are available in classic black and brown so you can find a pair for any suit.

Price at time of publish: $300

What to Look for in Tuxedo Shoes

When it comes to shopping for tuxedo shoes, it's helpful to narrow down your options based on your personal style and the type of tuxedo you'll be wearing. If you're throwing a black-tie wedding and donning a traditional black tux, you can never go wrong with classic dress shoes like oxfords and loafers in black or navy. For a blue or tan tuxedo, black still works well, but you can go for a dressy brown shoe for a slightly more casual effect. And if you're more of the statement-making type, there are plenty of bold shoes on the market like velvet smoking loafers and patterned oxfords.

FAQ

  • What shoes do you wear with a tuxedo?

    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. You may also want to take the venue and location into account when shopping for your wedding day look, as this can help you narrow down the style and aesthetic you're going for.

  • Do tuxedo shoes have to be shiny?

    Traditional tuxedo shoes are typically crafted from a patent (high-shine) material, but it is completely acceptable to wear formal shoes with a more natural, less shiny finish with a formal suit or tuxedo.

  • Do I have to wear socks with tuxedo shoes?

    Definitely not! A loafer is the best shoe option to wear without socks. Plus, it's an utterly timeless choice for a completed black-tie-worthy look.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writerLaura Lajinesscovers fashion, accessories, and fine jewelry. Her work can be seen across various outlets, including ELLE, InStyle, Glamour, Refinery 29, The Zoe Report, Popsugar, Well+Good, and Barneys New York, among other titles and brands.

The 18 Best Tuxedo Shoes of 2022 (2024)

FAQs

Which shoes are best for tuxedo? ›

What shoes do you wear with a tuxedo? 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.

What are tuxedo shoes called? ›

Which Shoes Should you Wear with a Tuxedo? Generally, there are four accepted shoe styles to wear to a black tie event: the court shoe or opera pump, an Oxford, a Venetian loafer, and finally a slipper (sometimes called Prince Albert Slippers).

Can you wear cap toe shoes with a tux? ›

Note that wholecuts and cap toe oxfords (though not quarter brogues) are perfectly appropriate with a tuxedo. In fact, try to avoid any shoe style that has any added ornamentation that distracts from its silhouette.

Can you wear penny loafers with a tux? ›

The answer is a resounding yes! You can most definitely wear loafers with a tuxedo. In fact, we would argue that it's one of the best choices you can make when choosing your shoes. Loafers are comfortable, stylish, and versatile - everything you want in a shoe for an event like this.

What is the best colour for a tuxedo? ›

Choose the colour of your tuxedo between the classic black or the more modern blue. With black are always playing a safe game; blue is a more modern choice for the more daring gentlemen, although you should evaluate the colours according to the context of the event.

Which color tuxedo is best? ›

Grey is the most versatile of tuxedo and suit colors. Adjusting the shade only shifts the colors you can pair with it as well as how you accessorize. This hue is your answer for any outdoor, indoor or destination wedding. Grey can be modern, classic, compelling and eye-catching.

What kind of socks to wear with a tuxedo? ›

What Type of Socks Do You Wear With A Tuxedo? With that cleared up, you should also know that you'll need black dress socks to complete the tuxedo look. Not just any black socks will do — you should really go for a high quality pair of black cotton or black merino wool dress socks.

What shoes go with black tie? ›

Shoes: Black patent leather shoes are recommended. Though velvet slippers can work, just know you're showing off a little bit (no bad thing, . Jacket: A suit jacket that is known as a dinner jacket.

What kind of shoes to wear with suit? ›

Perfect to wear with a suit, Oxfords are a go-to option for every formal occasion. Black, polished styles work well for even the strictest of dress codes. But other Oxford varieties are appropriate for all kinds of social occasions, formal and less formal.

What socks do you wear with a black tux? ›

Sock Rule #2: Wear Black Socks. Nothing can ruin your Black Tie ensemble like white socks peeking out just above your shoes. Exception to Sock Rule #2: If you are wearing a tuxedo that isn't black, navy, or grey, try finding formal hosiery in the same color (i.e. white, ivory, brown, etc.)

What pants go with a tux? ›

The suit pant should have a tapered fit i.e. it should be slimmer towards the ankle, meaning boot-cut trousers are not acceptable. Target between 14 and 15 inches Ankle Width depending on your body size, anything less than this width size is a skinny fit pant, and anything more, is tending towards "big fit".

Can you wear a stainless steel watch with a tux? ›

If you are wearing a tuxedo, it is most likely less formal-looking and in the gray/charcoal, beige, or brown color families. For such a look, we recommend a casual everyday type of watch that is neutral—stainless steel, leather straps, light color dial.

Should you wear a pocket square with a tuxedo? ›

Tuxedo Pocket Square Rules

If it's a formal black-tie event, it's generally considered appropriate to wear a white pocket square in a presidential pocket square fold (flat fold), or a conservative puff fold.

Can I wear a tuxedo without a cumme*rbund? ›

Wear a cumme*rbund or vest.

Unless you're wearing a double-breasted jacket that you keep buttoned at all times, you'll likely expose your shirt. Your tux will look incomplete if you're not wearing a cumme*rbund or vest.

Should I wear a cumme*rbund with my tuxedo? ›

Generally, a cumme*rbund is traditionally worn with a tuxedo, not a dinner jacket. Due to the sense of formality that accompanies cumme*rbunds, they definitely have a tendency to make regular suits look overdone.

How do you stand out in a tuxedo? ›

The key to shining in your black tie outfit is nailing the little things like wearing a proper tuxedo dress shirt, black tie shoes, a bowtie, cufflinks, a formal pocket square, and a tuxedo belt, waistcoat or cumme*rbund.

What color shirt goes with tuxedo? ›

First thing's first. If you want to get the most out of your tuxedo, always wear a white shirt. Black shirts are permissible for some formal events like proms, but they never achieve the same masculine effect of a white shirt underneath a black coat.

When should you not wear a tux? ›

Traditionally, you should not wear a tuxedo before 6 p.m. since it is so formal. Generally, you won't receive a black tie invitation for an event that starts before then, unless it's a wedding.

What is the most formal tuxedo style? ›

Most of us think of the black-tie as the most formal of formal stylings, and that's not the case! The top tier in evening dress codes is white tie. For men, that name is very literal – you're supposed to wear a white bow tie with your formal tuxedo rather than the black of “black-tie.”

What colour tuxedo must not be worn during the day? ›

Black Tie Is Not Daytime Wear

The trend is unlikely to stop, but for people who are serious about getting their formal and semi-formal dress right, tuxedos are evening wear only. The usual rule of thumb is that you dress for the end time of an event.

What goes around your waist with a tuxedo? ›

A cumme*rbund is a broad waist sash, usually pleated, which is often worn with single-breasted dinner jackets (or tuxedos).

What do you wear around your waist with a tuxedo? ›

You'll be cooler wearing a cumme*rbund under a tuxedo than a vest. However, today the purpose of a cumme*rbund is mainly to cover the waist.

Should socks be darker than suit? ›

The general rule is: The socks should always be a few shades darker than the trousers. For example, dark blue socks go with a navy suit. You should wear black or dark grey socks with a grey suit. And light brown socks are the perfect choice for a beige suit.

Can I wear regular shoes with a tuxedo? ›

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.

What men should not wear to a black tie event? ›

Avoid jeans, shorts, T-shirts, and a tank top that can be black-tie formal wear and are not appropriate for a black-tie event. Opened collar dress shirts without a bowtie or formal necktie should not be worn to a black-tie event. An opened collar dress shirt is considered to be too casual for a black-tie event.

What should you not wear to black tie? ›

For a black-tie event, avoid wearing:
  • Suits even black – black-tie dress code means a tuxedo or formal dinner jacket outfit.
  • Opened toed shoes.
  • Shorts.
  • Polos.
  • Opened collar dress shirts without a bowtie or formal necktie.
  • Sport coats.
  • Blazers.
  • Tennis shoes.
May 4, 2020

What shoes to wear with suit 2022? ›

For formal events that aren't as strict as black tie, shoes like the Oxford, monk strap, Derby, or brogue are all acceptable. You can even get away with a pair of loafers or smart sneakers, so long as they're a darker shade.

How can I look attractive in a suit? ›

Polish Your Look: 16 Subtle Tips for Wearing a Suit
  1. Find the Right Shoulder Fit First. ...
  2. Tailor Your Suit. ...
  3. Invest in a Quality Dress Shirt, Belt and Shoes. ...
  4. Opt for Wool or Wool Blends. ...
  5. Be Intentional About the Color of Your Suit. ...
  6. Save Your Suit With a Quality Undershirt. ...
  7. Choose the Right Tie for Your Suit. ...
  8. Perfect the Tie Dimple.

Which color shoes go with everything? ›

Footwear in black, beige, white, and gray should be a must-pack for your next trip since these colors can match everything you're bringing.

Can I wear tuxedo with sneakers? ›

Anything formal – from black tie to business dress – is to be adhered to by the letter, which means wearing appropriate footwear. But, if you've been encouraged to dress casually – including smart-casual – or if there's no expectation whatsoever, then sneakers are fair game.

What should I wear with a tuxedo? ›

For a classic black tuxedo look, black dress socks will work best. 2. Put on your dress shirt, studs, and cuffs. The white dress shirt, or tuxedo bib, goes underneath your jacket, and the buttonholes fasten with black studs that tie the black-and-white ensemble together.

What shoes do you wear to a black tie event? ›

Shoes: Black patent leather shoes are recommended. Though velvet slippers can work, just know you're showing off a little bit (no bad thing, . Jacket: A suit jacket that is known as a dinner jacket.

Do you need a wrist watch when you wear a tuxedo jacket? ›

Traditionally, wearing a timepiece with a tuxedo to a formal affair was a no-no because it was considered rude to watch the time. Fortunately today it is completely acceptable as long as you select a timepiece that is appropriate, formal and elegant.

Should tuxedo shoes be shiny? ›

For the most formal of dress codes it is usually required to wear black shiny shoes.

Which type of shoes are best for suits? ›

Black patent-leather Oxford shoes are the classic choice here. That said, a regular leather pair of Oxfords will suffice – just make sure they're clean, polished to a shine and scuff free.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Tyson Zemlak

Last Updated:

Views: 5750

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (63 voted)

Reviews: 94% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Tyson Zemlak

Birthday: 1992-03-17

Address: Apt. 662 96191 Quigley Dam, Kubview, MA 42013

Phone: +441678032891

Job: Community-Services Orchestrator

Hobby: Coffee roasting, Calligraphy, Metalworking, Fashion, Vehicle restoration, Shopping, Photography

Introduction: My name is Tyson Zemlak, I am a excited, light, sparkling, super, open, fair, magnificent person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.