99.999% of women state that they judge a man’s appearance by his shoes.

OK – maybe this isn’t strictly of a scientific nature, but let’s face it, men are generally less-capable at the whole ‘shoe thing’ than women.  There are many reasons for this, including:

• Men prefer comfort and would rather throw on a pair of trainers
• Men buy ‘shoes’ for specific circumstances e.g. for work or for a wedding

Perhaps the most obvious reason, though, that men are generally at a loss when buying shoes is this:

• The range of shoes for men is nowhere near as prevalent or wide-ranging as that for women

Anyhow, we can see you sitting there nodding your head in agreement and as you are still reading this you clearly need a prod in the right direction so here we begin in order of value.

ASOS Jazz

Non-Ostentatious Oxford

A classic revamped; The Jazz by ASOS is a contemporary update of the traditional Oxford shoe and will work with both smart denim or trousers as part of a suit.  They come in black leather with a contrasting grey trim and are just £35.  For the budget conscious, these snazzy shoes offer huge value for money.

Burton Derby

Destination Derby

The derby shoe comes in many forms but these, again, are of a more contemporary nature with a slightly pointy toe helping to give prominence to the lower end of an outfit.  Because of the bargain price - £45 available from Burton - these Derby’s make an ideal work shoe (at least, for those of you who don’t offend the style police by wearing your New Balance running shoes for the power walk during rush hour…).

Schmoove Jamaica Corseasy Glov

Schmoove Operator

Probably my favourite of the bunch. The Jamaica Corseasy Glov by Parisian brand Schmoove was designed to bridge the gap between the shoe and the trainer, and has been pulled off – in my opinion – for the first time with this pair of quality shoes.  The price tag of £85 should be indication enough that the Corseasy Glov is still a serious piece of smart footwear and consists of a 100% leather upper, flat rubber sole and brogue detailing with a very subtle point to the toe.  Comfort is unmatched by the competition. Best of all, you can easily wear them with jeans or a very smart suit, yet still look impeccably professional at work.

Church Alastair

Classic Church

Church’s are a classic English shoe maker and are seen en masse as part of the suit and formal attire adorned by workers in the City.  Their bread and butter comes from their classic oxfords and loafers worn for daily work wear, but this pair of patent dress shoes are made for your dinner suit and will complete the black tie outfit.  Available from Herring Shoes, the Church Alastair is our choice patent and is the smartest shoe in our Top 5. £235

John Lobb Wroxham

Lustrous Lobb

The pinnacle of shoemaking is normally associated with John Lobb and their fine team of shoemakers.  This glossy pair – the Wroxham and shown in red – is available in a range of colours from their 2008 ready-to-wear range and are unlikely to spare you change from £1,000.

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