A groom’s guide to wedding shoes

The footwear a groom chooses for his wedding is a crucial part of their outfit and helps to set the tone for the big day.

In this blog, we highlight key considerations when choosing your wedding shoes, and take a look at four styles that are popular choices with many of our clients.

We’d also like to take this opportunity to remind you that HKT offers a custom shoe service, which means you can design the ideal shoes for your wedding.

You choose the style, materials, and details. We create perfectly fitting footwear that will take your look to a whole new level.

Consider the style of your wedding 
If you’re going to have a more formal wedding, then a classical shoe is more appropriate, such as a black toe cap. But if you’re big day will be a more casual affair, such as a beach wedding, then loafers may be more suitable.

Coordinate with your outfit
When it comes to choosing your wedding footwear, always consider your full outfit. Some colors and styles of shoes work better with certain suit colors and fabrics. For example, tan and light brown footwear works well with navy and lighter shades; black shoes are typically best with a black or dark tuxedo or suit.

Don’t forget that comfort is key
Keep in mind that you’re likely to be wearing your shoes for a long time on your wedding day. This means support and comfort is important. Also remember to walk around in your shoes before your wedding to help break them in.

Choose high-quality footwear
We always recommend investing in high-quality footwear for your wedding. You want to feel and look your very best on your big day and in your wedding photos. Also, if you invest in high-quality footwear, they’re likely to serve you well for many years after your wedding.

1. Tuxedo shoes

Offering a blend of tradition and elegance, tuxedo shoes are an excellent choice for any groom who wants his footwear to look super sophisticated on his big day.

These shoes are typically crafted from patent leather and provide a sleek, glossy finish that exudes refinement. As a result, this polished style works perfectly with the refined and timeless look of all types of tuxedos, including more contemporary styles.

High-quality tuxedo shoes are also designed with the wearer’s comfort in mind, and typically feature cushioned insoles and supportive structures. This is particularly important for a groom, who will be on his feet for extended periods, from the ceremony to the reception.

Additionally, tuxedo shoes are versatile beyond the wedding day. They can be worn to other formal events, making them a valuable addition to any wardrobe.

Investing in a good pair of tuxedo shoes ensures that a groom looks impeccable on his wedding day and well-prepared for future special occasions.

Best for: a groom who is planning on wearing a tuxedo and bow tie.

2. Classic toe cap shoes

Featuring a distinct piece of leather or material stitched over the toe area, toe cap shoes provide a classic and refined look that complements all types of formal attire, including a tailored wedding suit or tuxedo.

One of the primary benefits of toe cap shoes is their versatility. From a traditional church ceremony, to a modern venue, to a picturesque outdoor location, they look good in all types of environments. This means a groom will effortlessly exude style throughout their wedding day, and be able to use their toe cap shoes for many other special occasions.

Importantly, toe cap shoes also offer superb support and durability. The added layer of material at the toe not only enhances the shoe’s aesthetic but also provides extra protection and structure, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

What we also really like about toe cap shoes are their timeless design. This ensures they remain in style for many years, making them a valuable addition to a groom’s wardrobe beyond the wedding day.

Best for: nearly all types of weddings, but especially more traditional occasions.

3. Wedding loafers

Wedding loafers have become a popular choice for grooms, and a personal favorite of HKT, due to their blend of style, comfort, and versatility.

These shoes offer a sleek, modern alternative to traditional lace-ups, and provide a relaxed yet sophisticated look that complements various wedding styles, from casual beach ceremonies to elegant indoor affairs.

One of the primary reasons for their growing popularity is comfort. Loafers are typically designed with a slip-on style and cushioned insoles, ensuring the groom remains comfortable, whether they’re standing for long periods, walking down the aisle, or strutting their stuff on the dance floor.

In terms of looks, wedding loafers come in a variety of styles. The tassel loafer with decorative laces over the top portion of the shoe; the penny loafer, which typically features a strap on the upper with a small slit; and the more relaxed horsebit loafer, which features metal detailing over the upper of the shoe.

On top of this, you can also choose from a range of materials and finishes, including leather, suede, and velvet. This allows grooms to choose a pair that best matches their overall attire and wedding theme.

For instance, a pair of polished leather loafers can add a touch of formality to a tuxedo, while suede loafers may complement a more casual outfit for a beach or garden wedding.

Best for: grooms who like comfort and style, and more relaxed weddings.

4. Wedding sneakers

Over the past decade, custom-made sneakers have become an increasingly popular choice for grooms who want to project their personal style and have lots of comfort on their wedding day.

Thanks to their informal yet sophisticated appearance, high-quality leather or suede sneakers can combine perfectly with formal wedding attire and offer a contemporary twist on traditional wedding footwear.

Sneakers also offer practical advantages that modern grooms love. They are easy to wear, work well in all types of indoor and outdoor environments, and they can be worn again and again after the big day – in the office, out on an evening, or when simply relaxing at a weekend.

As for the color of your sneakers, white sneakers typically work best with gray, navy and suits of a lighter shade; black sneakers generally go with black or gray suits; and brown sneakers go with brown, gray or navy suits.

Best for: a casual or beach wedding, and a groom who wants to project their personal style.

As well as offering a custom shoe service, so you can have the perfect footwear for your wedding, we can meet all your other wedding outfit needs.

Our style experts and talented tailors are highly experienced at creating custom tuxedos and wedding suits, and exquisite wedding shirts and vests.

At HKT, we also have a great selection of luxury ties, pocket squares, belts, and socks that will ensure you a look a million dollars on your big day.