Dress Shoes: Breaking In and Care Basics

Shoes complete the outfit — here’s how to care for them:

• Breaking In

  • Wear indoors with thick socks for 1–2 hours daily for the first week.

  • Use shoe trees between wears to preserve shape.

• Care Basics

  • Rotate pairs — don’t wear the same shoes two days in a row.

  • Polish regularly (wax for shine, cream for nourishment).

  • Store in dust bags or boxes to avoid scuffs.

• Styling Tip

  • Black shoes = formal business and black tie.

  • Brown shoes = versatile, from office to casual.

  • Oxfords = business standard; brogues = casual flair.

➡ Related: Belts, Ties, Socks & Sunglasses