If you want to make your fits extra smart, yes, you can invest in a solid pair of brogues or Oxfords, but you should also check out some of the best dress boots for men out there. First introduced during the Victorian era, this silhouette was worn by VIPs and royalty during very special events. And while absolutely any guy can get a pair now, that doesn’t take away the fact that they just look awesome.
The problem is, with so many different designs and styles to pick from, searching for the perfect dress boots for men can be a bit of a challenge. There are military-inspired ones, pairs that lean more towards a rugged hiking aesthetic, and versions that feature a Chelsea-esque vibe. If you’re not entirely sure where to begin, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this comprehensive guide by OPUMO, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite dress boots for men right now. From independent brands like Velasca to historic Northamptonshire shoemakers like Grenson, there’s bound to be one here that complements your personal taste and, of course, your budget. So let’s check them out.
The best dress boots for men: Key brands
Aurélien
Luxury without the unnecessary markup – that’s Aurélien’s whole ethos, and it carries through to its dress boots. The brand has mastered the art of understated European elegance, offering sleek, well-crafted designs that pair effortlessly with tailoring. The Chelsea Boot is a standout, cut from supple suede with a slim silhouette that works just as well with formalwear as it does with sharp casual looks. A soft leather lining and lightweight sole ensure comfort, while the pared-back design lets the quality of the materials do the talking.
Velasca
For those who appreciate Italian craftsmanship but don’t want to pay four figures for it, Velasca is a strong contender. Handmade in Montegranaro, one of Italy’s shoemaking capitals, its boots feel considered but never over-designed. The Fruttiroeu lace-up is a refined alternative to the usual Derby boot – sleek but sturdy, with a hand-stitched leather sole and a silhouette that sits perfectly under a tailored trouser. Velasca’s boots feel timeless, leaning into the brand’s love of classic shoemaking without ever feeling stuffy. A solid investment for anyone who appreciates quality without the designer markup.
Kleman
French shoemaker Kleman brings a workwear sensibility to dress boots, offering styles that feel a little more rugged but still smart enough to pair with tailoring. Originally a supplier for the French military, the brand has since built a cult following for its durable, pared-back designs. The Oxal KP boot, with its structured leather upper and heavy-duty sole, strikes a balance between function and refinement. It’s not a delicate, dressy boot in the traditional sense, but for those who like a more substantial, grounded look with their tailoring, Kleman is an excellent choice.
Myrqvist
Scandinavian brands tend to do minimalism well, and Myrqvist is no exception. Offering Goodyear-welted boots at a price point that undercuts many of its heritage competitors, this Swedish brand has mastered the balance of timeless design and modern sensibility. The Abisko is a particular highlight – a classic lace-up boot, handcrafted in Portugal from fine calf leather, with a sleek last that makes it perfect for sharp tailoring. For those looking to build a versatile footwear rotation, Myrqvist offers heritage-level craftsmanship without the heritage-level price tag.
John Lobb
Few names in shoemaking carry the same weight as John Lobb. Founded in 1866, the British brand has long been the benchmark for handcrafted footwear, and its dress boots are no exception. Every pair is made in its Northampton workshop using time-honoured techniques, resulting in boots that feel more like works of art than mere footwear. The Alder boot is a testament to this – a flawless lace-up style built from the finest leather, with a hand-stitched sole and impeccable finishing. If you’re after the best of the best, John Lobb remains the gold standard.
Grenson
Grenson has been making shoes since 1866, but its modern-day approach is anything but old-fashioned. The British brand blends heritage craftsmanship with contemporary styling, making its boots a great option for those who want something timeless but not overly traditional. The Bill boot, for example, takes classic shape and gives it a refined, slightly elongated silhouette, perfect for wearing with a well-cut suit. The beauty of Grenson’s boots lies in their versatility – they feel just as at home with smart tailoring as they do with more relaxed, dressed-down looks.
Cheaney
Cheaney is a shoemaker that values tradition but isn’t afraid to refine it for a modern audience. While its boots are built using classic techniques – Goodyear-welting, hand-finishing, leather soles – they have a sharpness to them that feels contemporary. The Godwin Chelsea boot is a prime example: elegant but sturdy, cut with just the right amount of sleekness to sit neatly under tailoring. Everything about Cheaney’s boots feels carefully balanced – classic but not stuffy, refined but not delicate, making them a strong choice for those who want a boot that works across formal and casual wardrobes.
For more like this, check out the best Chelsea boots for men.
