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Carl Magazine

Summer shoes for the basic wardrobe

In several ways, the shoes in the men's basic wardrobe form a solid foundation for your outfit. Below we provide summer shoes that create a comprehensive shoe wardrobe ideal for most occasions.
photo: Patrik hagborg Text: Mikael Vallin
Summer shoes for the basic wardrobe
Summer shoes have a greater stylistic function than the shoes you wear throughout the rest of the year. The main reason for this is that summer wardrobe generally consists of fewer garments, so the things you wear become more important. The summer footwear in your basic wardrobe naturally takes on a slightly more casual focus, but that does not necessarily mean you should lower your style ambitions. With a little knowledge, you can choose the right models that combine comfort and a dressy style.

Boat shoes


The boat shoes are a type of shoe originally designed for sailors and boat enthusiasts. They are often made of leather or canvas, have a unique lacing system with leather laces and a sole that provides excellent grip on wet surfaces. Boat shoes are versatile, comfortable and best worn without socks, as they are meant to be breathable and prevent moisture build-up. They have become popular for their timeless style and are suitable for both maritime activities and for everyday wear. With neutral colours such as brown and navy blue, they pair with a variety of outfits.

Derby shoes

Derby shoes are the perfect example of summer shoes that in the vast majority of situations can easily replace sneakers, whilst providing a dressier style. Derby shoes can be worn with jeans, chinos or a pair of relaxed suit trousers.

Loafers


Once again, we want to encourage all of you who have not yet familiarised yourself with loafers to do so. Loafers are casual shoes that have fluctuated in popularity throughout the years, but they will always have a place in the basic wardrobe. Stylistically, they fulfil the same function as a pair of casual Derby shoes, but have a slightly more casual appearance with their lack of laces. Always use a shoehorn when putting on your loafers so you do not damage and stretch the heel of the shoe. The right size is especially important for loafers, as your foot will not fit if the shoe is even slightly too big. It is common that you need to go down half a size in loafers, if you are normally a size 44, 43.5 is often a safe bet.

Sandals


A quality sandal is a very good and comfortable pair of footwear that can be worn with jeans, shorts or linen trousers on the way to the beach. Perhaps even wear with a beige linen suit and a white t-shirt at the beach restaurant or barbecue.

Sneakers

Wearing sneakers in the summer brings numerous advantages. Sneakers are the versatile footwear choice loved by many, combining style and comfort effortlessly. From classic canvas designs to high-performance athletic models, sneakers cater to diverse tastes and activities. They also provide comfort during long city strolls or outdoor activities.

Oxfords


Even throughout summer, you may need a pair of Oxfords. The Oxford model is one of the most formal shoes you can wear, if in a dark brown colour instead of black, you avoid the strictly rigid business feel. These shoes also work well with the formal dress code, unless the dress code is applied in a strictly conservative style context. Your brown Oxfords also elevate jeans, worn with a braided brown belt and a casual summer jacket.
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