The Guide: The Shoe Essentials

Some weeks back, I wrote about what I thought were the Top 10 Clothing Essentials for men. Today, I'm back with yet another, but this time, we go to my favorite part of a man's wardrobe. If you've been following the blog for quite some time, the answer's easy: Shoes! Yes, we will now talk about glorious, magnificent shoes.

Why the hype? Well, ask anybody and they'll tell you that shoes make or break an outfit, period. It doesn't matter if you're wearing the most flattering look. With wack kicks, all the effort you put in looking good won't mean a damn thing at all!

So with that, let's go to the pairs that I believe you should have in your closet. If nothing else, get these time-tested classics and watch as you step out in style for years to come, whatever the occasion!

1. The Formal Shoe
For formal shindigs, there's really no better choice than a fine pair of leather oxfords. Just get the shape (no square toes please!) and quality right and you'll have a pair that'll help you look sharp and professional when you need it most.

These Swear Jimmy 1 Oxfords in Black are just beautiful!

2. The Grown Up Casual Shoe
Weekends shouldn't mean an automatic shift to sneakers. Even on your off days, why don't you start wearing more dressed up options? Try loafers and see how they add sophistication to casual wear. Trust me, when you advance in age, you'll be glad that you embraced shoes like 'em early in your years of youthful exuberance. (Runner Up: Boat Shoes)

Penny Loafers are a great investment. Just ask your grandpa!

3. The Simple Sneaker
While I suggested going for more grown up options, you shouldn't dare starve yourself of your sneaker needs. Lord knows there's nothing better than these kicks for those days when you're going to have lots of mileage on those feet of yours. Just go for the simple classics and give your feet the comfort and style it damn sure well deserves.

It doesn't get any more classic than a pair of Chucks!

4. The Athletic Shoe
A necessary pair for your workouts and occasional run around the block. If you say you don't need it, then it's probably time for you to get one. Everybody needs exercise, bruh, and you best be getting to steppin' if you're going to use those slim shirts and trousers for a long, long time.

Take it from me, Nike Frees are as good as advertised!

5. The Wild-Card
Sometimes you just want to be different. For those times of self-actualization, help yourself to a pair of dope statement shoes that just beg to be looked at! For me, it's my all-red plimsolls. For you, it might be Air Yeezys, brightly colored suede moccasins, or even patent lace-ups. Just build up the courage and watch as the eyes come your way, son!

Now that's what I'm talking about!

A final word, though. While this list may seem a bit too short for shoe enthusiasts, I would like to believe that when it comes to shoes, it doesn't matter how many you have. It's about what you have and if all five pairs above suit your purposes already, by all means stick with them and let them serve you until their soles wear out!