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- FAST DELIVERY to your home/station within 48/72h
- CLICK & COLLECT - Pick up your parcel in store
Men’s Dress Shoes: Timeless Elegance and Versatility
From loafers, derbies, and oxfords to Chelsea boots and boat shoes, choosing the right pair can be a daunting task. These iconic styles are integral to the refined and classic look that men often adopt for professional settings or formal occasions. Despite their long history, these shoes have retained their exceptional quality and character, thanks to their rich heritage.
What has allowed these classic styles to maintain their popularity and withstand the test of time? Their enduring success lies in their ability to transcend trends and eras while staying true to their authentic identity and the technical details that have established their reputation.
At Besson Chaussures, we offer a wide collection of dress shoes that bring timeless elegance to both formal and casual outfits.
Loafers and Oxfords: Always in Style
Among the classics, the loafer stands out as one of the oldest designs. Its origins trace back to North American indigenous tribes, who crafted this type of shoe from untanned leather without closures. Today’s loafers retain this no-fastening feature but are often decorated with a bar or tassels. The "tassel loafers" we recognize today gained prominence in the late 1940s, thanks to American actor Paul Lukas, and were designed by Alden. They quickly became popular on university campuses before crossing the Atlantic.
In addition to these timeless designs, Besson Chaussures offers contemporary loafers with block heels or Velcro closures for added convenience.
Another staple in the dress shoe category is the classic oxford, known for its refined, durable, and comfortable design. Oxfords, or "Richelieus" as they are called in France, are distinguished by their closed lacing system—two flaps sewn together on the vamp, forming a V shape. This contrasts with derbies, which feature an open lacing system with two flexible, independent pieces of leather.
The Chelsea Boot: A Classic Choice
For an extra touch of elegance, consider Derby and Oxford shoes, perfect for both formal attire and more casual outfits. Whether paired with a two- or three-piece suit, a tuxedo, or a more relaxed ensemble featuring jeans or chinos with a white tee, button-down shirt, or blazer, these shoes add a sophisticated edge. Variations include the "one-cut" Oxford made from a single piece of leather with no visible seams, and the "half-hunter" Derby with a unique front design.
The boat shoe is also a timeless piece, invented by American sailor Paul A. Sperry in 1937 and originally used by US Navy sailors for its non-slip sole. It has since become a staple of preppy fashion, reflecting today's "sportswear" trend.
Moving from low to high shoes, the Chelsea boot remains a classic and essential piece of men's fashion. Originating from England in 1851, the Chelsea boot is distinguished by its elastic side panels, making it easy to slip on and off. Its sleek design and effortless style ensure it remains a staple in the classic men's wardrobe.