As different from the tuxedo jacket is from a suit, the formal shoe is distinctive from other men’s tuxedo footwear. At times it is gleaming, sometimes adorned with a decorative bow. The conventional shoe is the only suitable way to properly finish off a formal tuxedo, despite appearing like gentleman’s house slippers than a pair of shoes.

The informal shoe is more commonly seen on a daily basis, as the formal shoe is only worn on special occasions such as business purposes or wedding.

The pump is sometimes called a court shoe, and began life three centuries ago. It has hardly altered since and is accepted tuxedo footwear due to it’s timeless elegance. Made most often from patent leather, but the pump can sometimes be seen in a slightly duller standard leather upper.

Shiny leather lace up shoes date back one hundred years or so from English Colleges. They are popular because they can be made to fit different widths of feet, and because they fit so snug they are much better for dancing etc.

Again, despite being usually made of patent leather, they can also be formed in calf skin which has an equally glossy veneer when correctly polished. No matter what a man’s predilection, he should stay away from cheap leather.

Not only does it look shoddy but it will crack and unpeel as well. On the other hand, you should make certain sure that formal shoes are amply polished.

The plain cap shoe can also be considered, but the plain toe version is considered best due to lack of adornments. The plain toe version are more versatile and look less like work shoes than the plain cap toe versions. The plain cap toe version and loafers are improper.

The Balmoral and open laced Bulcher are two forms of Oxford style shoes. The Balmoral is regarded as more prim and proper, more suitable for tuxedo footwear. English and American establishments view the Balmoral as the only proper Oxford shoe.