While the style has been around for centuries, double monkstraps remain one of the least popular shoe types when it comes to formal men’s shoes. Indeed oxfords, brogues, and even Chelsea boots tend to overshadow this “underdog” style.
In spite of this, the refined look imparted by a nice pair of double monks is hard to beat, even though not all shoe manufacturers are able to achieve this classy aesthetic. For this reason, on this page, we’ve put together some of our favorite double monkstrap shoe styles that you can buy on Zappos, one of the largest shoe retailers on the web.
Before that, we’ve presented some background information on the double monkstrap which will help you get warmed up to the style if you’ve yet to purchase a pair.
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What Are Double Monkstraps?
A double monkstrap shoe is a classic style of footwear that has been around for centuries. It is characterized by two straps with individual metal buckles that fasten across the foot. This type of shoe is typically made from high-quality leather and is considered to be a mostly formal style of footwear.
When To Wear Them
While the double monkstrap may seem like a simple style of shoe, it can actually be quite versatile, as it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
When deciding whether or not to wear a double monkstrap shoe, it is important to consider the event or occasions you will be attending. For example, a double monkstrap would not necessarily be appropriate for a casual barbecue with friends, but would be fine for an after-work drinks event. Additionally, keep in mind the climate and weather conditions when choosing your footwear – a double monkstrap made of leather may not be the best choice for a hot summer day.
Ultimately, the double monkstrap is a stylish and sophisticated shoe that can be a great addition to any man’s wardrobe. With a little bit of thought and consideration, you can easily incorporate this versatile footwear into your everyday style.
Tips On How To Wear Double Monkstraps
Knowing how to wear a double monkstraps is half the battle. Here are some tips to help you pull off this stylish shoe:
- Wear them with confidence! This is the most important tip when it comes to wearing any type of formal or semi-formal shoe. If you don’t feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, it will show. So, if you want to wear double monkstraps, do it with confidence, knowing you’re wearing a classic and refined style of shoe.
- Pair them with the right outfit. As mentioned before, double monkstraps can be worn with both formal and casual outfits. However, it’s important to make sure that the rest of your outfit compliments your shoes.
- Stick to darker colors such as black or brown when pairing them with a suit. These colors will help to create a more formal look.
- Suede styles are considered more casual than calfskin monkstraps. Keep this in mind when picking a pair of monkstraps that you’re looking to pair with specific suits or looking to wear to a specific type of function.
Boradly speaking, double monkstraps are versatile and stylish shoe that can be worn in both formal and casual settings. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to rock a pair of double monkstraps with panache.
Monkstrap Shoe History Recap
The double monkstrap shoe is believed to have originated in the early 1600s, during the reign of King Louis XIII. At that time, monks were required to wear closed-toe shoes as part of their uniform, and the double monkstrap was designed to meet this need. The style quickly gained popularity beyond the monastery walls and became a fashionable choice for both men and women.
The double monkstrap continued to be a popular style throughout the centuries, appearing in different forms depending on the fashion of the time. In the 1800s, for example, the double monkstrap was often worn with breeches and knee-high socks as part of equestrian attire. Today, the double monkstrap has been modernized and is available in a variety of materials, including leather, suede, and even canvas.
The Best Double Monsktrap Styles For Sale On Zappos
- Colors: Cognac, Black
- Material: Genuine Calf Leather
- Pricing: $234.90 [Buy On Zappos]
When it comes to a high-quality and elegant monkstrap shoe, it’s almost impossible to go wrong with the Magnanni Cotillas II. Handmade in Spain with 100% genuine calf leather, it has a classic double monkstrap style with an almond toe.
The Cotillas II shoe is perfect for the office or any formal occasion, particularly if you want to set yourself apart from all the other cap-toe oxfords. The black color is the most traditional, but the cognac leather is our top pick with its deep brown burnishing.
- Color: Black
- Material: Full Grain Calfskin
- Pricing: $153.95 [Buy On Zappos]
The Passion double monks by by Carlos Santana are perfect for the modern man. With a full-grain calfskin leather upper, leather soles, leather linings, and natural leather stacked heel, they implement not only the highest quality materials but also time-tested construction methods, namely a Goodyear-welt.
As a result, these can be worn and recrafted many times over, ensuring that once the cushion footbed molds to your foot, you’ll be able to retain the comfortable fit.
At this time, they’re only available in black, which is the most traditional and versatile color for a pair of double monks.
- Color: Grey/Dattero; Grey/Black
- Material: Two-Toned Italian Leather
- Pricing: $
165$99.99 [Buy On Zappos]
The two-tone doubles monkstrap shoes from Massimo Matteo may be somewhat shocking at first, buy they do a great job exemplifying the true versatility of the double monk. It’s clear to see that the manufacturer has used two different tones of leather on the shoe. However, it doesn’t lose its elegance one bit. It’s also true that the high-quality Italian leather used here ensures the refined nature and finish of the shoe.
For these, it’s also worth highlighting that they have leather linings, insoles, and outsoles, just as most premium leather shoes do. There are two options available when it comes to leather tones, with the Grey/Dattero combination being our current favorite. This being said, the Grey/Black is a solid choice for those with the confidence to pull off a more unorthodox shoe style.
- Color: Burnished Brown
- Material: Woven Italian Calfskin Leather
- Pricing: $295 [Buy On Zappos]
These Ellsworth Woven double monks are a great option for any formal or semi-formal occasion you may have during the summer. Most evidently, the upper is crafted from Italian calfskin leather that boasts an attractive woven conformation.
There are also additional design details that take these over the top when it comes to elegance. For instance, note the hand-burnished toe as well as the broguing details around the heel. Lastly, they also boast traditional stacked leather heels and leather linings.
- Colors: Black, Caramelo
- Material: Leather
- Pricing: $69 [Buy On Zappos]
The Carter double monks from Blanco Garcia are a phenomenal option when you’re looking not only for a more affordable option but one which will also stand out.
These Carter shoes offer a new take on a double monk; instead of having both buckles on the same side, the buckles are on opposite sides of the shoe, creating a rather unique look. The toe is in a formal almond shape with dark brown burnishing. A synthetic outsole achieves a more premium look while keeping the price within the affordable category and without taking away from the classy look of the shoe.
Available in both a walnut “Caramelo” color or classic black, you can choose to wear this unique style in a more subdued tone or go for the brown that will make these shoes the centerpiece of your outfit.
Continue Shopping On Zappos
As you can see by the featured examples above, there are many different types of double monkstrap shoes available on Zappos. However, if you’re not quite satisfied with the ones we’ve put forth, use this link to go directly to a Zappos results page that is pre-filtered for men’s double monkstrap shoes.
While browsing on Zappos, keep in mind that they offer free shipping and back every purchase with their 365-day return policy. This will ensure you are able to pick a pair that not only looks good on the screen but which feels good on your feet once they are delivered!
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