From fashion faux pas to style icon: the do's and don'ts of Brogue Shoes

Ah, brogue shoes—the ultimate crown jewel of men's footwear. Loved by nobles and the style-savvy alike, these lace-up shoes for men hail from the rugged terrains of Scotland and Ireland. What started as practical footwear for farmers and fishermen has morphed into an essential original leather fashion icon. But let's be honest, those intricate perforations and rich textures can sometimes be as tricky to style as a Rubik's Cube.

Don't worry—we've got your back (and your feet!). This blog is your step-by-step guide to cracking the brogue shoe styling code. If you're a seasoned style connoisseur or just someone dipping your toes into the fashion pool, we're here to help you take your brogues from "meh" to magnificent.

Brogue Shoes: A Peek into Their Origins

First, what exactly are brogue shoes? "brogue" refers to the decorative perforations on the shoe's upper. Surprisingly, these design holes were specially designed to help workers drain out water from the shoes. But now we all consider this design an artistic touch for the shoes.

Fast forward to today, and brogue shoes for men are the epitome of class and elegance. Due to their intricate designs and timeless appeal,brogue shoes have become wardrobe essentials that can enhance any attire effortlessly.

The Do's of Brogue Shoes

• Pair with something classical Brogues with classical bottoms like black trousers are a match made in heaven. Think navy blue trousers paired with brown brogue lace-up shoes—it's a classic combo that never fails.
• Keep tops simple: Since brogues' design can attract too much attention, balance things out with understated tops. A crisp white shirt or a plain sweater works wonders.
• Add a pop of colour:Feeling adventurous? Inject some personality with a colourful tie, pocket square, or quirky socks. A splash of colour adds contrast and makes your outfit pop.
• Experiment with different textured fabrics: You can try mixing different fabric textures like wool, cotton, and leather for a layered look. Picture a wool sweater, tailored cotton trousers, and original leather brogue shoes—effortlessly stylish.
• Accessorise wisely: A sleek watch, a leather belt, or a sophisticated bag can elevate your outfit and tie the whole look together.
• The Don'ts of Brogue Shoes:Steer Clear of These Mistakes

Even the best shoes can go wrong if styled poorly. Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Don't overdo patterns: Brogues are already visually intricate, so skip loud prints or clashing patterns. Stick to subtle stripes or checks for a refined look.
• Avoid pairing with shorts: Brogues and shorts are like oil and water—they don't mix. Opt for chinos or dress pants instead for a polished vibe.
• Never neglect your shoes: Scuffed or dull brogues? Big no-no. Regular polishing keeps your lace-up leather shoes looking sharp and fresh.
• Say no to athletic wear: Brogues aren't sneakers, so avoid pairing them with joggers or hoodies. They're meant for dressing up, not dressing down.
• Don't over-accessorize: Less is more. A few well-chosen accessories are all you need to complement your brogue shoes without going overboard.

Advanced Styling Tips: Take It Up a Notch

Feeling confident? Here's how to make your brogue shoes the centrepiece of your style:

• Experiment with colours:While classic brown and black brogues are timeless, don't be afraid to try tan, oxblood, or bold shades like blue or green for a modern twist.
• Explore unique brogue patterns: Choose a pattern that resonates with your style from classic perforations to intricate designs.
• Mix unexpected textures: Pair brogues with fabrics like suede, velvet, or corduroy for a creative and edgy look.
• Show off statement socks: Bright, patterned socks add a playful twist to your outfit. Let them peek out for a dash of quirkiness that's hard to miss.

Conclusion

Brogue shoes are more than just footwear—they're a fashion statement. By following these dos and don'ts, you’ll ensure your lace-up brogue leather shoes always look sharp and sophisticated.

Experiment with colours, textures, and patterns until you find a look that feels authentic. With a little practice and a lot of confidence, your brogues will transition from just another pair of shoes to the defining feature of your personal style.

So whether you're suiting up for a formal event or adding flair to your everyday look, remember this: brogue shoes for men are always the right choice—quirks, pops of colour, and all!

Author's Bio

Meet Rijul Soni driven by a passion for education and staying updated with evolving trends, Rijul Soni embarked on a journey of knowledge-sharing through blogging. He hails from Punjab and has pursued B.Tech from NIT Jalandhar. After working as an Operations & Analytics Consultant in Bangalore, he joined Zoom Shoes, his family's business. As the 'Head of Brand E-Commerce,' Rijul propelled Zoom Shoes to new heights, making it available on major marketplaces. With a vision to be India's top brand for genuine leather footwear, their motto is #LetsBuildTogether.