When considering your wedding day outfit, it’s important not to overlook the essentials. While a well-fitting groom suit will always be number one on your list, the right pair of shoes and some stylish groom accessories to top it off is how to ensure you get the bride-to-be’s seal of approval.
Some might say that the most telling component of men’s fashion is footwear - more so than a suit - shoes exhibit style choice, personality, interests, lifestyle, and so much more. So, choosing the perfect wedding shoes for your big day will help to set the tone for the momentous occasion.
First things first, it’s essential to know where and when your wedding will take place to select the most appropriate shoes. No one wants to want light loafers in the peak of winter, just as a pair of black patent leather oxfords for your beach ceremony sounds less than ideal.
Beyond practically, different styles of wedding shoes for men will work depending on the vibe of your wedding. Hosting a black tie affair in a luxe country house? A black dress shoe will likely be the best choice. Or, taking to your local city hall for a chic registry office wedding? In this case, you’ll probably be free to explore more informal styles!
With any other aspect of wedding planning, choosing the perfect pair of wedding shoes to work alongside a groom’s suit is deeply personal, and it’s an absolute must for the groom to choose something themselves, ensuring they feel comfortable on their special day. After all, a ruined first dance at the hands of blistered feet isn’t how you’ll want to remember it!
Whether you have your eye on a classic pair of black oxfords, some casual yet stylish loafers, or something that provides a pop of colour (we love blue wedding shoes for men due to their versatility) - the Rock My Wedding Editors have found the 20 best groom shoes on the market to help you make the all-important decision.
To make your life easier, we’ve arranged our edit based on the most popular styles of wedding shoes for men. From staple oxfords to loafers, monk straps, and derby shoes!
Oxfords are often characterised as the staple dress shoe - a style worn to most formal occasions ranging from the office to your very own wedding! Oxfords are ideal for classic, elegant grooms who want a pair of wedding shoes they can wear time and time again. While black oxfords are perfect for the more formal, black-tie events, coordinating well with tuxedos, brown oxfords are a stylish alternative for occasions that call for slightly less formality.
Leather Oxford Shoes Dark Tan - £149, Charles Tyrwhitt
Matthew Leather Oxford Shoes - £99, Jones Bootmaker
Patent Oxford Shoes Black - £149, Charles Tyrwhitt
Alfred Capped Oxford in Indigo Suede - £445, Cheaney
Leather Oxford Shoes With Leather Lining - £289, Hugo Boss
Loafers are a slip-on style, making them comfortable and easy to put on (perfect for the grooms who see themselves taking to the dance floor). While typically reserved for more casual settings, it’s super easy to elevate your outfit and make it perfect for your wedding day with the right pair of loafers. Opt for popular loafer styles, including Tassel, Penny and Horsebit loafers, and go for leather styles over suede if you need a more formal pair of wedding shoes.
Saxxton Navy Suede Tassel Trim Loafers - £72, Dune London
Logo-Plaque Saffiano Leather Loafers - £740, Prada
If you’re looking for a unique style, Monk Strap wedding shoes are the image of classic sophistication while offering something a little different. As the name suggests, Monk Straps don’t have any laces. Instead, they use either a one-strap or two-strap version across the upper top of the shoe to buckle to close it, giving the design its unique look! These shoes are popular amongst even the most refined and fashionable gentlemen, making for the perfect wedding day shoe.
Ackergill Black Calf Leather Double Monk Shoes - £129, Oliver Sweeney
Saloon Brown Leather Double Strap Monk Shoes - £130, Dune London
Justin Leather Single Strap Monk Shoes - £69, Jones Bootmaker
Leather Double Monk Strap Shoes - £85, M&S
Double-Strap Monk Shoes In Leather With Heel Detail in Dark Blue - £745, Hugo Boss
Last but definitely not least, let's talk Derby Shoes. While they share a similar vibe with Oxfords, Derby Shoes bring a more relaxed and laid-back style to the table. The standout feature? Their open lacing system. This design not only makes them look effortlessly cool but also provides a more flexible fit, giving your feet some extra room to move. Because of their casual elegance, Derby Shoes are often chosen for less formal occasions. However, they can be a fantastic choice for weddings too. Plus, they tend to be more comfortable, which is always a win when you're on your feet all day celebrating.
Black Derby Lace Up Dress Shoe - £159, Hawes & Curtis
Contemporary Leather Derby Shoes - £340, MAGNANNI
Pod Regus Leather Brogue Detail Shoes Navy - £63.75 – £64.00, John Lewis
As we mentioned, while a good pair of groom shoes is often more significant than most give them credit for, it’s also not all about footwear! Whether your wedding shoes come before or after your suit, check out our roundup of the best wedding suits for grooms in 2024. And for even more on men’s wedding fashion, don’t forget to check out the best groom accessories, including buttonholes, groom hats, pocket squares, ties and bow ties, plus more!
To ensure complete coordination on the big day, it's well worth paying extra attention to what your wedding party wears. Shop the best groomsmen suits for every season, style and dress code to ensure your nearest and dearest complement you perfectly.