Your Opinions on a Formal Shoe Idea

[RichardtheLarge]

Jose,

I have the shoe pictured below from Thistle shoes, which somewhat inexplicably arrived with an additional pair of faux buckles. I imagine that they would be happy to sell the buckle pieces to you, as they have an abundance.

As to the shoe itself, I would recommend purchasing the buckle brogues rather than attempting a DIY style. I’m afraid that they will look incongruous in suede. Suede suggests velvet to my eye, and velvet shoes, although ubiquitous in “dressy” applications today, are only correct when hosting dinner at one’s own house. If one is leaving one’s house, the shoes should be shined leather.

Another option would be to find a silver buckled wingtip monk strap shoe in black calf or patent leather (calf would be my first choice. I dislike patent leather).

Buckle brogues should be worn with eveningwear or very formal day dress (the equivalent of a morning suit...basically fully turned out with the exception of a grey silk necktie in lieu of a bow tie or jabot). I wouldn’t wear them in a less formal context, but I very much enjoy them when I’m dressing up.