How to style men’s black brogues

The classic brogue men’s shoe is the ultimate footwear choice for formal occasions and events where you want to showcase a bit of style and finesse. In my latest article, I will offer several ways to wear men’s black brogues and ensure your image is on point.

There are numerous footwear options available for stylish men seeking footwear to complement their formal attire, whether it’s a simple shirt and tie or a full three-piece suit.

From the Oxford to the Derby, the element which connects these shoes together is the brogue design. In layman’s terms, it is a standard formal shoe that features a decorative effect along the seams and edges.

Historically, they were regarded as a working-class shoe, but over time they have boosted their status and are now the ultimate go-to style for both formal and smart-casual settings (and are available in a wide range of price points – from budget to premium and everything in between). Designed as a type of shoe that would be worn for outdoor work and activities, typically for Scottish and Irish boots, the perforation was used as a means for water to escape the leather. In most cases, it is now purely a design choice on modern styles.

There is undoubtedly a large number of different styles and designs that have incorporated the term “brogue,” and as such, everything can get quite confusing. However, one thing remains constant: shoes featuring a brogue pattern will always look the part and enhance any formal style you choose from your fashionable wardrobe.

Almost every footwear brand has launched its own personal take on the brogue style, making it a challenge to find a pair that offers style, quality, comfort, and at a reasonable price point.

Herring Gosport men’s black brogues

For my latest style guide, I chose the Gosport from Herring Shoes above. The Gosport boasts supremely high-end quality, constructed from premium, supple calf leather, which bends with your foot as you move for extra comfort, and a Goodyear-welted leather sole to ensure long-lasting life and makes them much easier to repair when the time comes.

I have tested out an almost endless array of different formalwear brogues in my time, and I can honestly recommend the Herring Gosport. As soon as I slipped them on, I was amazed at the comfort level (smart footwear brands typically relish in the need to ‘break them in’ before they are ok to wear on a daily basis).

In the following sections, I will provide some tips on how to style men’s black brogues using your classic wardrobe pieces.

Brogues and the three-piece suit

At the top of the list of formal wear outfits is undoubtedly the three-piece suit – the number one ensemble when you want to make a powerful impression. The combination of a matching blazer, waistcoat, and trousers with your brand-new brogues is timeless and is ideal for special events, occasions, dates with your loved one, or even that all-important business meeting!

For my example, I chose to add a pop of colour with a burgundy suit, which delivered a fantastic contrast against the solid black shoes. A crisp white shirt, navy tie, and pocket square completed the stylish display. If bold colours are not your thing, you can keep it classic and understated with effective alternatives, such as navy, grey, beige or black.

I opted for a slim-fit model to achieve a striking silhouette (it is essential that you always consider the fit).

Brogues and the two-piece suit

Next up, we have a moderately less formal ensemble, although no less eye-catching, featuring a two-piece suit number.

I picked out a charcoal blazer and trousers that featured a tailored, yet still roomy, fit that contrasted perfectly against the black brogue footwear. For a slightly more casual aesthetic, I decided to go ‘sans’ tie, with the top button of my white shirt left open, although the look would easily have worked with a semi-matching tie. I still popped a navy pocket square into the chest section for an extra splash of colour.

For a different effect, you can always opt for a mismatched jacket and trousers combo, such as grey or navy with black, or even a velvet blazer for these fancy events!

Brogues and shirt & tie/shirt only

If you want to rock your new men’s black brogues at the office, you can drop the jacket entirely and roll in wearing slim trousers and a button-down. You can include a bold, coloured tie to elevate the look. However, if your office dress code is relaxed, you may consider leaving the tie behind entirely.

Both of these options are also suitable for a number of other occasions, not just for work, like a smart-casual dress code event or an evening meal.

Brogues and polo shirt/knitwear

Next, I will be exploring attire that is more relaxed yet still allows you to share your innate fashion sense with the world. Grab yourself a classic polo that is casual yet still smart, and pair it with a pair of trousers and your ever-dependable brogue footwear.

As a secondary option, swap out the polo for fitted knitwear. Examples include a crew-neck merino or a roll-neck jumper, depending on the weather.

Brogues and outerwear

As the temperature starts to drop at the end of the year, every fashion-conscious guy will reach for his curated jackets and coats. For a perfect complement to your shiny brogue shoes, opt for a trench coat, overcoat or even a peacoat. Each will show an on-point display of your style when the chilly weather drops.

• Trenchcoat – opt for a classic beige or tan colour to create an iconic businessman aesthetic
• Overcoat – wrap up warm with a wool coat in grey, brown, light tan or black. Keep the chill at bay while displaying a fantastic formal style
• Peacoat – choose navy, black or even olive (extra bonus points if your coat features military epaulettes)

Brogues and accessories

Before I let you sign off and raid your wardrobe as you start creating bold new looks, I will quickly discuss accessories. When you’re rocking your brand-new brogues, don’t underestimate how the addition of a watch, jewellery, leather goods, and even sunglasses can give your outfit that extra push!

• Watch – I recommend a formal (or classy sports model) design, something minimalist, not overly busy and with a complementary colour scheme
• Jewellery – keep it simple yet effective with silver, platinum or gold rings and bracelets, such as a cuff
• Leather goods – you can never go wrong with a smart leather wallet, satchel, or hold-all, depending on your activity for the day – they can transform your look into something much more business-like
• Hat – during the autumn and winter months, you can even throw on a hat, which is practical but also offers an extra layer of style – consider a flat cap (perhaps in tweed), a baker-boy style, or even a trilby if you’re feeling extra confident

Conclusion

A pair of quality, well-structured brogues that present a fabulous look should be in every modern man’s wardrobe. It is a shoe that works well with any formal or smart-casual event, as well as in professional or career-based environments. Invest in a pair in timeless black, but you can bolster your collection even further with tan, brown or even burgundy!

Once you have filled your closet with premium footwear choices, you will be able to confidently attend any event, knowing that your shoe choice won’t let you down, and you will always display a sleek and stylish look.

Shop black brogues for for men

Get more style and fashion tips from Your Average Guy here.

Related reading

• What’s the difference between a brogue and a semi-brogue?
• Oxfords not brogues
• Why the brogue deserves attention