What To Look For When Buying Mens Shoes

When you hear "shoe shopping" the image that comes to mind is typically

women, but today's guest blogger shares some tips for

 male shoe shoppers who also shop for footwear!

Women could shop for shoes until they drop. But men, generally speaking, are less skillful when it comes to buying footwear. Even though a man’s choice of shoes is usually selected according to his personal taste, there are certain rules about what to look out for.

If you feel that you need pointing in the right direction when it comes to buying male footwear, you may find the following pointers helpful.

One general rule of thumb is to try and choose a pair of shoes that match the shade of the trousers you are going to wear with them, or are a little bit darker. A lighter shoe at the bottom of a pair of darker trousers is generally considered to be a fashion faux pas! Having said this, the rule is not as essential during the summer months, when lighter colored sandals, loafers and desert boots take center stage on the catwalk and high street.

Clarks have a diverse range of light and airy casual shoes, loafers, sandals, canvas boots and desert boots. From pale blue and beige to bright white, this year’s Spring/Summer collection of Clarks mens shoes comes in a variety of colors.

Shinier shoes tend to suit more formal occasions, and look best when worn with a suit or a smart pair of trousers. So, when choosing a pair of new shoes, avoid picking a shiny style if they are going to be worn with jeans or shorts. Stick to loafers, sandals, sneakers or boots instead.

There’s a wide selection of loafers in this season’s Clarks collection, available in a whole range of shades and textiles. Choose ebony suede, sand suede, walnut leather or navy leather for an unusual feel.

When dressing casually – a polo shirt with a pair of chinos or khakis, for example – retro-style shoes provide a relaxed and fashionable feel that’s great for the summer months.

If you’re shopping for a pair of formal shoes, buying footwear that matches accessories – like a belt – will give the outfit an even smarter edge. Less bulky heels and soles will ensure you stay looking sharp. 

This is a guest post by  http://www.kandco.com/ , one of the leading online retailers in the UK. It offers stylish and comfortable clothing and footwear for all the family in a wide range of sizes.

Best Shoes to Wear When Traveling

It's vacation time and that means travel!  Lucky for us 

today's guest author Amy Fountain has some thoughts 

to share with us about the best shoes to wear while traveling.

Traveling 

1. Loafers

Loafers are coming back with a vengeance. What is great about them is that they are flat, they are comfortable and they are stylish. They are great for different kinds of outfits. Jeans, dresses, shorts – loafers are perfect. On the other hand, these are not ideal when traveling to countries with heavy downpour of snow.

2. Oxford shoes

Oxford shoes are great for travel because they are so stylish and comfortable. You can even choose from breathable oxford shoes with cut outs on the side, heeled oxfords, wedge oxfords, flat oxfords or half oxford shoes. Choose the one most suitable for your traveling needs.

3. Sneakers

Sneakers should definitely be included. These are great if you are planning to do a great amount of walking when traveling. It is also ideal for driving. You can choose from denim sneakers, glitter bling sneakers and even hand-painted sneakers. There are so many designs to choose from. Those people who want a bit of height to their shoes even when traveling can choose from wedge or low-heeled sneakers.

4. Sandals

They are perfect for the spring and summer season. Today, you can choose from ankle strap sandals, Mary Jane sandals, double strap Mary Jane sandals or slip on sandals. Pair it with a nice floral dress, high-waisted shorts or even jeans and you are good to go. On the other hand, they are not as great during rainy travel seasons.

5. Creepers

I find creepers really ideal for traveling. If you choose your creepers well, you’ll find one as comfortable as sandals. They add a bit of high without stretching your calves or the soles of your feet. In fact, they are as flat as loafers and sandals. If you want more height to your shoes sans the pain, creepers are ideal choices. You can also choose from different edgy and stylish designs that will go so well with any casual travel outfit.

Make sure you break your shoes in before you bring them for travel. New shoes, no matter how comfortable they are, still hurt when they are new.

Amy Fountain enjoys writing about fashion, style, and the current trends. She is also a fashionista in the home. Check out her Home Décor Art and Tabletop Fountains website.