When it comes to fashion, it’s often said that the first thing people notice about your ensemble when you enter a room is your shoes – and that’s even before they look at your face. With this in mind, having the perfect pair for every occasion is essential for the sartorial male. It can help command respect in business and professional scenarios and win you style points in your social circles.
The world of luxury men’s footwear is constantly evolving, and while it’s true that investing in a few classic, timeless styles designed to last will get you a long way, each new season continues to bring with it a slew of new trends. And, as every style-conscious man knows, staying ahead of the pack and leading rather than following is key – which is why it’s time to get the latest looks for summer before the masses catch on.
For summer 2023, there are plenty of exciting new styles that are certain to prove popular with the discerning gentleman, and have already been spotted strutting down the new-season catwalks at London Fashion Week. They’ve also taken centre stage at the runway shows in Paris, Milan and New York, which is proof, if you needed it, that they’re going to be huge.
It’s not just particular styles that have been under the spotlight though, and we’re seeing some specific materials and colours garnering attention, too. So, here are the luxury footwear trends to invest in now to ensure you’re ready to put your best foot forward in the season ahead.
Skateboarding shoes with a twist
Skateboarding shoes aren’t just for skateboarding, and have been given an unequivocally fashion-forward makeover for summer 2023. As leading fashion houses continue to drive the athleisure trends, we’re seeing a greater focus on sport-inspired footwear and garments, and for men, the bold graphic skateboard shoe is a wardrobe essential for dressed down, off-duty weekend looks. Think punchy patterns and prints, geometric shapes and abstract designs – the more out there, the better, if you dare to wear them.
Bold colours
Black and brown might be the usual colours of choice when it comes to luxury footwear, but the leaders of the fashion world are forever pushing boundaries, and that means seeking out ways to do things a little differently. For summer 2023, that means initiating a shift away from men’s shoes as simply being the finishing touches to an outfit, and instead, paving the way for them to do the talking. So, we can expect to see some of the hottest must-have designer shoe models coming in a range of bold hues – from vibrant oranges to electric blues and even neon greens.
Whilst it’s fair to say that such footwear won’t be for everyone, it’s a trend that the more daring dresser will love. One of the most on-trend hues for men’s shoes in the new season? Hot pink – so if you invest in one statement shoe, then pink loafers or dress shoes promise to get you noticed for all the right reasons.
Woven slip-ons
Although not exactly a new trend for summer, the comfortable slip-on shoe is back again this year, having enjoyed on-off popularity over the past few years. Simple, elegant, and a great option for warmer weather, classic leather models are set to make way for new designs in unusual choices like rattan and hemp, making them the perfect choice for summer holidays abroad and to take you seamlessly from day to night. Wear with a timeless linen shirt and tailored chino shorts for the perfect transitional outfit.
Back at home, they’ll work just as well with a sharp suit with an off duty jeans-and-t-shirt combo, making them the most versatile and on-trend shoe of the season.
Hybrid sandals
It’s hardly surprising that the humble men’s sandal will be making a return for summer 2023, but this year, we’re seeing more luxury designers and fashion houses than ever before coming up with their own takes on this classic, timeless style.
A particularly edgy look will be the hybrid sandal-sneaker, combining elements of these two popular shoe styles to give the open-toed style a sportier makeover. Elements like rubber soles and mesh uppers will add interest without compromising on the air movement that keeps feet cool and makes sandals so popular during the warmer months of the year. It’s another example of how the fashion world is continuing to redefine style in 2023, and an exciting trend you’ll want to embrace if you’re a fan of unique looks that will get you noticed.
