Bridge the gap between smart and sloppy with the most versatile breed of footwear in the business
Smart casual shoes: the unsung heroes of modern men's footwear. They're the pair you reach for when you need something that can take you from the boardroom to the bar without missing a beat. Nestled perfectly between sneakers and dress shoes, these gap-bridging, do-it-all options offer a winning balance of casual comfort and versatile looks.
It may seem a little oxymoronic, but ‘smart casual’ actually makes a lot of sense. One of menswear’s most misunderstood terms, it describes anything that fills yawning gulf between, well, smart and casual. Neither sloppy nor overly sophisticated. They’re the types of clothing and footwear you wouldn’t really look out of place in anywhere short of a swimming pool, a gym or a Royal wedding. Elegant but not too formal, relaxed but not scruffy.
People often cite garments like Oxford shirts, chinos and cardigans as smart casual essentials, but footwear plays a big role too. There is a whole world of smart casual shoes out there, and in this guide we aim to give you the grand tour.
So, let’s dive into what makes these shoes so indispensable, explore the key styles, and introduce you to the top brands that do them best.
What Are Smart Casual Shoes?
Smart casual shoes are the footwear equivalent of an unstructured blazer, effortlessly bridging the gap between formal and laid-back. They offer a polished yet approachable look, making them a shoe-rack staple for the style-conscious man. You can pair them with everything from tailored trousers to denim, ensuring they fit seamlessly into various settings. Office? Sure. Wedding? Yeah. Pub? Why the hell not!
Unlike stuffy old formal shoes, the best smart casual shoes don’t sacrifice comfort for style. And unlike casual sneakers, they bring a sense of sophistication to the table. We’d go as far as to say that owning at least one pair of smart casual shoes is essential for any modern man who wants to navigate social and professional settings with ease.
Key Types of Smart Casual Shoes
Derby Shoes
Derby shoes are the classic smart casual staple of the footwear world. Defined by their open lacing system, they offer a slightly more relaxed look than Oxfords while retaining an air of refinement. They're incredibly versatile, and pair effortlessly with both suits and jeans. Opt for leather for a polished appearance or suede for a more relaxed vibe.
Loafers
Loafers are the slip-on shoes that embody preppy, laid-back elegance. Available with embellishments like decorative horse bits, tassels or even a little slot to store spare change (more on that here), they're an easy tool for adding a touch sophistication to any outfit. They’re particularly great for warmer weather and look equally stylish with jeans, tailored pants, or, if you’re brave, shorts and crew socks.
Chukka Boots
Chukka boots offer the perfect mix of casual and formal. Typically made of suede or leather, they feature a low-cut ankle and minimal lacing, making them ideal for dressing up jeans or dressing down a suit. They're comfortable, stylish, and provide a rugged touch to smart casual ensembles.
Luxe Sneakers
Luxe sneakers are the refined cousin of the everyday trainer. Crafted from premium materials like leather or suede, they add a modern edge to the smart casual wardrobe. They’re perfect for a laid-back office look or a weekend brunch, pairing seamlessly with chinos, jeans or dress pants..
Chelsea Boots
Chelsea boots are the epitome of sleek style. Characterised by their elastic side panels and pull-on design, they offer a streamlined silhouette that works with tailored trousers and jeans alike. Opt for leather for a dressier look or suede for a more relaxed, everyday option.
The Best Smart Casual Shoe Brands
G.H. Bass
G.H. Bass is known for its iconic penny loafers. Established in 1876, the brand has a heritage of craftsmanship and quality. Their loafers are a go-to for those seeking classic smart casual shoes that blend comfort and timeless style. They're versatile enough to pair with anything from chinos to tailored shorts.
Dr. Martens
Dr. Martens brings a touch of rebellious style to smart casual footwear. Renowned for their chunky soles and distinctive stitching, these shoes add an edge to any outfit. They're durable and comfortable, making them a solid choice for those looking to make a statement without compromising on quality.
Myrqvist
Myrqvist offers premium shoes without the premium price tag. Known for their classic designs and quality materials, their range includes versatile options like Derbies and loafers. Crafted in Portugal, Myrqvist shoes bring a touch of European elegance to the smart casual wardrobe.
Paraboot
Paraboot is a French brand celebrated for its craftsmanship and use of high-quality leather. Their shoes offer a rugged yet refined aesthetic, perfect for the modern man. From loafers to Derby shoes, Paraboot's collection seamlessly blends durability with smart casual style.
Aurélien
Aurélien specialises in ‘Smart Luxury’—high-quality footwear that's both stylish and comfortable. Their loafers and luxe sneakers are crafted from premium materials, making them an ideal choice for those who value understated elegance in their smart casual shoes.
R.M. Williams
R.M. Williams is synonymous with Australian craftsmanship. Known for their Chelsea boots, the brand offers durable, timeless styles that are versatile enough to be worn with everything from jeans to tailored trousers. Each pair is built to last, which makes them a worthy investment for any wardrobe.
Common Projects
Common Projects is famed for its minimalist design and luxurious materials. Their iconic Achilles sneaker is the epitome of the luxe sneaker category—simple, sleek, and effortlessly stylish. These shoes add a modern, clean touch to any smart casual outfit.
Velasca
Velasca offers Italian craftsmanship at its finest. Their collection includes a range of smart casual options, from loafers to Chelsea boots. Velasca shoes are known for their quality materials and attention to detail, which ensures both comfort and style.
Clarks
Clarks has been a go-to for smart casual shoes for decades. Their Desert Boots are a classic choice, offering a laid-back yet refined look. Known for their comfort and durability, Clarks shoes are perfect for those seeking reliable, stylish footwear.
Morjas
Morjas is a Swedish brand known for its classic designs and quality craftsmanship. Their range includes everything from loafers to Derby shoes, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Morjas shoes are designed to last, making them a smart investment for any wardrobe.
Gucci
Gucci brings luxury and flair to the smart casual realm. Their loafers are iconic, often featuring the brand's signature horsebit detail. Gucci shoes are for those who want to make a statement while maintaining a sophisticated edge.
Closed
Closed is a contemporary brand that offers minimalist, stylish footwear. Their shoes are known for their clean lines and premium materials, making them a great choice for those who favour understated elegance in their smart casual look.
Oliver Cabell
Oliver Cabell focuses on artisanal craftsmanship and high-quality materials. Their luxe sneakers are perfect for those seeking a modern, sleek addition to their smart casual wardrobe. Each pair is designed with simplicity and versatility in mind.
Kleman
Kleman offers utilitarian-inspired footwear with a touch of French flair. Their shoes are robust and versatile, making them ideal for those who want a more rugged approach to smart casual dressing.
