On this page, we’ll be discussing shoes that are appropriate and stylish to wear with a tuxedo as well as the best tuxedo shoes to buy online. While you can read through this page in its entirety, you can always jump right to the section that interests you most by clicking any of the following links:
- What Shoes To Wear With A Tuxedo
- Best Materials For Tux Shoes
- Top 10 Best Tuxedo Shoes & Where To Buy
- Can You Wear Sneakers With A Tuxedo?
- Can You Wear Tux Shoes With A Suit?
- How To Clean Tuxedo Shoes
You can also visit our main tuxedo homepage where we cover other components of tuxedo attire including tuxedo shirts, jackets, cummerbunds and more.
More Black Tie Guides
Other Dress Codes
Other Dress Shoe Guides
Related Shoe Styles
See All Bespoke Unit Shoe Style Guides
Where To Buy The Top 10 Best Tuxedo Shoes
Assuming that you don’t quite have the time or the budget for an exquisite pair of bespoke tuxedo slippers, we have assorted some of our favourites that cater to every budget and can be immediately bought online.
While it might feel alien at first, buying tuxedo shoes will look and feel just like buying regular shoes. You can get cheap ones at low-end department stores for under $100, but a cheap tuxedo shoe may look out of place if you’ve made the effort everywhere else.
Below are our current top 10 best tuxedo shoes for black tie to buy online:
- Best Value For Money: Beckett Simonon Dean
- Comfortable Slipper: Wolf & Shepherd Knight
- Premium Oxford: Salvatore Ferragamo Belshaw
- Quality Oxford: Allen Edmonds Park Avenue
- Quality Patent Oxford: Magnanni Denali
- Affordable Patent Oxford: Florsheim Tux
- Affordable Patent Loafer: Calvin Klein Bernard
- Quality Velvet Loafer: Magnanni Dorio
- Affordable Velvet Loafer: Stacy Adams Sultan
- Handmade Wholecut: Paul Parkman Black
Use the quick menu above to jump ahead or scroll down to learn about them all!
- Color: Black, Brown
- Material: Calfskin Leather
- Pricing: $160* [Buy From Beckett Simonon]
*When using “BU20” Discount Code
Crafted from Argentinian calfskin leather, Beckett Simonon offers excellent value for money with their high quality yet affordable shoes. They’re a perfect choice and our whisky editor, Robert Raymond, wore them when attending a black tie event himself.
Bear in mind that Beckett Simonon shoes are made to order. Therefore, you’ll need to order them in advance and make sure that they’ll arrive on time!
"An excellent investment. The Dean by Beckett Simonon is a versatile Oxford shoe that will provide you with miles of performance at an extraordinarily competitive price!"
Read More: Beckett Simonon Dean Oxford Review
- Color: Black Patent
- Material: Calfskin Leather
- Pricing: $350 [Buy From Wolf & Shepherd]
Admittedly, we were quite sceptical when first confronted with the Wolf & Shepherd hype. However, when we tried the shoes for ourselves, we quickly realised what the fuss was all about!
Made with a memory foam footbed and from lightweight materials, Wolf & Shepherd offer comfortable yet elegant footwear. If you easily get tired from standing around (or dancing!) during formal events, we would strongly suggest that you try Wolf & Shepherd to see how they alleviate any discomfort.
Until recently, we would recommend Wolf & Shepherd’s classic cap toe oxfords. However, we were delighted to discover that the brand has now introduced a patent leather tuxedo slipper. What better choice for a formal event if the budget allows?
- Color: Black
- Material: Patent Leather
- Pricing: $730 [Buy Now On Zappos]
Oozing with that quintessential Italian elegance, Salvatore Ferragamo’s patent leather Oxford shoes are an ideal choice for the luxurious gala. While they won’t necessarily meet with everyone’s budget, they’re well worth the investment if you have a little extra to spare.
- Colors: Black
- Material: Calfskin Leather
- Pricing: $395 [Buy Now On Zappos]
If you’re looking to invest wisely, the Allen Edmonds Park Avenue is an excellent choice. As a classic Oxford shoe, they can be successfully worn in just about any formal setting. From business to black tie, they’re a great choice and the Goodyear welt means that they will last you many years to come.
When asked by readers what shoes to get for the prom, we would often recommend something like this. Some may balk at the idea of spending so much. However, we argue that they’re ideal because they can then be worn and most definitely look the part for the job interviews that follow.
- Color: Black
- Material: Patent Leather
- Pricing: $400 [Buy From Zappos]
Although still a premium shoe, Magnanni’s patent Oxford is more accessible than some of the suggestions above. If you fit in this bracket and you’re looking to invest in a shoe just for black tie events, it might be just what you need.
- Color: Black
- Material: Patent Leather
- Pricing: $110 [Buy From Zappos]
Alternatively, Florsheim offer some excellent tuxedo shoes for a reasonable budget. At just over $100, this cap toe Oxford in patent leather looks the part and plays its role very well. However, be sure that you opt for the true Oxford as there is a similarly priced Derby Blucher that we feel isn’t the correct footwear for black tie.
- Colors: Black
- Material: Patent Leather
- Pricing: $66 [Buy Now On Zappos]
If you’re interested in a Venetian loafer, Calvin Klein offers its Bernard, which is very affordable too. It has a long, elegant silhouette with a snip toe and a nylon band on the throat, which represents a ribbon.
In fact, it’s the most affordable option on this list aside from Stacy Adam’s velvet slipper. Therefore, it might be a good choice if you very rarely attend black tie events and want something authentic.
- Colors: Black, Blue, Bugundy
- Material: Velvet
- Pricing: $295 [Buy From Zappos]
As described above, the tuxedo slipper is an original but perfectly acceptable choice with black tie wear. In fact, tuxedo slippers are experiencing something of a renaissance thanks to a renewed interest in formal menswear.
Magnanni has produced an excellent specimen with all the hallmarks of an elegant tuxedo slipper. Made in Spain, its silhouette is sleek and delicate yet holds well even under intense wear. As this style can be quite hard to find still, it’s probably the best one that’s easy to find.
- Colors: Black, Navy, Burgundy
- Material: Velvet
- Pricing: $45 – $60 [Buy From Zappos]
While Stacy Adams may be unfairly regarded by some shoe enthusiasts, we believe that it’s an excellent brand for what it offers. Few brands have such a rich variety of unique styles and they’re all very affordable too.
Indeed, some may be a little too outlandish for most people. However, they offer some classic old-school styles at very attractive prices. For instance, these velvet tuxedo slippers can cost less than $50 depending on the colour that you choose!
- Colors: Black
- Material: Leather
- Pricing: $445 [Buy From Paul Parkman]
Although we haven’t featured many wholecuts in this list, it is indeed a style of Oxford that’s particularly elegant and suitable for black tie. Thanks to its sleek profile and refined silhouette, it can look fantastic when worn with a tuxedo and exudes sophistication.
As they’re made from a single piece of leather, it can be particularly challenging to find good quality wholecut shoes. However, Paul Parkman’s Turkish handmade shoes are absolutely perfect. Although there is a hint of broguing around the topline, it’s both subtle and unlikely to be seen with trousers of the correct length.
Best Shoes To Wear With A Tuxedo
Tuxedos are all about simplicity and a lack of bulk. This is why proper tux jackets don’t have pocket flaps and “correct” tuxedo trousers lack pleats and cuffs. It therefore stands to reason that tuxedo footwear should follow suit, and it does.
Additionally, the black tie dress code is often regarded more as a uniform rather than just an occasion. Therefore, the dinner jacket and tuxedo tend to have less flexibility when it comes to expressing your personality. Nevertheless, there is still space for adding a personal touch.
There are four commonly accepted shoes that are considered appropriate for black tie ensembles: opera pumps, oxford, Venetian loafers, and slippers (sometimes called Prince Albert slippers). 99% of the time, these shoes should be black, with the remaining one percent being reserved for odd-colored Prince Albert slippers in velvet.
Does Tuxedo Shoe Rental Exist?
We are currently unaware of any instances in which tuxedo shoes can be rented à la carte. Nevertheless, they can be included in a tuxedo rental along with a shirt, studs, and other accessories.
If you’re curious about whether to buy or rent a tux, check out our page on buying versus renting.
What Are The Various Materials For Tuxedo Shoes?
If you’re not accustomed to black tie attire, you may be surprised to learn that there are several types of shoe that work well in these circumstances. Although we previously said that the tuxedo is effectively a uniform, this is one fun venue to pursue if you want to explore your personality.
Uppers for tuxedo-appropriate shoes can be essentially crafted from the three following materials:
- Patent Leather: A glossy leather that has been coated multiple times to develop a permanent shine.
- Calfskin Leather: One of the best-regarded leathers for most dress shoes.
- Velvet: A tufted fabric with evenly distributed cut threads that glimmer in the light.
There are certain caveats to bear in mind with all three options. Therefore, we suggest to read on to discover them and find out which best suit you. Afterwards, you’ll be able to easily choose your favourite among the best tuxedo shoes that we recommend.
Patent Leather
Black patent leather is shiny and incredibly smooth (as an aside, it also has a tendency to scratch easily, so walk with care when wearing them). Through a process that consists usually of several glossy coats of acrylic, the result it a high mirror-like shine.
Its visual presentation is perfect with the dressiness of a tuxedo, and the shine they impart will certainly put a pep in your step.
With that said, black calfskin is sometimes acceptable, it just depends on the shoe style. We’ve broken down each appropriate shoe style by the material (patent, calf, or velvet) that’s acceptable for that style below:
- Oxfords: Black patent leather oxfords are the standard footwear for tuxedos nowadays. It’s common to use silk ribbon as laces for added formality. Note that a blucher is not appropriate for a tuxedo due to the added bulk of the open throat lacing system. This holds true even though black patent leather bluchers are sold ubiquitously.
Note that wholecuts and cap toe oxfords (though not quarter brogues) are perfectly appropriate with a tuxedo. In fact, try to avoid any shoe style that has any added ornamentation that distracts from its silhouette.
- Venetians: A black patent leather Venetian loafer is a slim, smart way to dress the feet when wearing a tux. The lack of laces allows the trousers to break gently, and the easy on, easy off nature of a loafer is always a bonus.
- Opera Pumps: An evening dress slipper with a silk or grosgrain bow at the vamp, opera pumps are known in England as “court shoes.” The last vestige of 19th century dress that gets worn with any frequency in modern times, opera pumps are very traditional while being simultaneously stylish and daring.
It takes a real man to wear bows on his shoes.
Calfskin Tuxedo Shoes
Calfskin is smooth, soft cow’s hide. When polished to a high shine, the below shoe styles are acceptable to wear with a tuxedo:
- Oxfords: If you happen to own black oxford shoes, it’s acceptable to wear them with a tux if they’re well-shined.
- Opera Pumps: Opera pumps also work in black calfskin. As with oxfords, ensure that they have a high shine to them.
- Slippers: Black slippers are an elegant, laid back way to dress the feet when wearing a tuxedo.
If you’re considering the above options, remember that they will require a thoroughly glossy shine. If you are short on time, you can seek a professional to do it for you at a modest sum. Alternatively, check out our guide to polishing your shoes for a detailed primer on how to do it yourself.
Furthermore, there is an added advantage of opting for this style of footwear for formal occasions. Particularly in the case of oxford shoes, you can wear them with your daily business casual attire as well as other events like weddings and funerals.
A Versatile Alternative

Black Lapel Made to Measure Tuxedos
If you rarely attend black tie events, this might be the most practical solution as you’ll be able to garner added value for money from a new purchase. However, if you regularly attend such events, we would suggest investing in shoes specifically for black tie wear.
This is particularly worthwhile if you wear your black oxfords to death. After all, you don’t want to be attending events with worn shoes?
Finally, be careful to avoid running into the pitfall of trying to use any calfskin loafer instead of opera pumps. While styles such as bit loafers, tassel loafers, and penny loafers all look great on their own, some circles may regard pairing them with a tuxedo as a faux pas.
Similarly, monk strap shoes are often a tempting choice for black tie events. While it can be acceptable in certain environments, it’s generally not seen as a traditional tuxedo shoe and we wouldn’t generally recommend them.
Velvet Tuxedo Shoes
One fun thing about slippers is that you can start having fun with some non-standard shoe colors, getting into burgundy velvet, plum, bottle green, and similarly dark, rich tones. Of course, you’ll want to use your best judgement as to when you wear such shoes.
Below are some classic colors for formal velvet slippers, which may inspire you:
- Slippers: In velvet, slippers are technically correct with a tuxedo. They look best, however, when worn with a smoking jacket, which is also made of velvet and therefore has some design continuity.

Gaziano Girling Tuxedo Slippers & Formal Shoes
You can certainly experiment with the freedom gained from velvet slippers. For instance, if you’re headed to a black tie wedding where you know the couple and their guests will be fun, funky people, throw on some gold slippers.
Of course, do check with the groom first to be make sure that you wouldn’t be literally treading on his toes. Meanwhile, if the event is more staid, like a gala or similar event, you’ll want to opt for more conservative footwear.
Finally, bear in mind that velvet slippers can be very delicate shoes. If you’re heading to an event during winter or in the rain, they may risk becoming damaged.
Therefore, you might consider putting them on just before arriving if convenient. Alternatively, you could take a taxi rather than public transport or even drive if you only have to walk from a parking lot to the venue.
What Are The Best Shoes To Wear With A Tuxedo?
Notwithstanding the aesthetic advice given above, what are the best shoes to wear with a tux?
It’s best to defer to your personal preference and / or the physical realities of your feet, which is to say that some shoe styles will fit you better than others. If you’re not sure about how shoes should feel, check out our guide to shoe fit.
Similarly, it’s worth considering your own personal style and daily appearance. Only you can really judge what best suits you.
If you’re more of a traditionalist, your best bet would be black patent oxfords. Meanwhile, if you’re more eccentric, opera pumps will do. Otherwise, if you have a high instep, you should avoid Venetian loafers as they can’t be adjusted. Finally, if you’re on a budget, shine up your black dress shoes and have yourself a night on the town.
How Much Do Tuxedo Shoes Cost?
Finally, your budget may be another factor in choosing the right shoes. As mentioned in the calfskin shoe chapter, you may want to invest in something that’s versatile for other occasions. However, if you’re attending many black tie events, we would recommend a dedicated pair.
Indeed, tuxedo shoes can be particularly expensive if made using traditional methods with quality materials. For instance, a traditional shoemaker like Gaziano Girling will charge something between £500 and £900. That said, you will benefit from superior craftsmanship, aesthetics, and longevity.
Nevertheless, there are affordable alternatives that can be bought online for a song such as the shoes we will present below.
Can I Wear A Tuxedo With Sneakers?
Below: N’Sync’s Joey Fatone “stylishly” sporting trainers with a tuxedo
We’ve been asked on numerous occasions whether you can wear sneakers with a tuxedo. Indeed, if you ever see photos of celebrities on the red carpet, there are always a few that are flaunting their edge by combining the two.
In fact, we noticed that it was a particularly popular search term on Google too!
While you probably can, you probably shouldn’t. Although nothing’s would stop you from doing so, it’s arguably the biggest sartorial oxymoron in existence. Additionally, some events may actually bar your entry into the venue for not respecting the dress code. However, this is rather rare these days.
Therefore, we would say no but we want to refrain from being elitist as it rarely rubs off the right way. Nevertheless, few who attempt this unorthodox combination of contrasting styles will be successful in appearing avant-garde.
If you decide to wear sneakers with a tux, however, at least go all the way throw on some opera pumps with your jeans!
Can You Wear Tuxedo Shoes With A Suit?
Well-shined black shoes with a business suit is one thing, but patent leather shoes with a regular suit may often be regarded as overkill. You can read more about this in our page on the difference between a suit and a tuxedo, but we’ll tell you here that tuxedo shoes aren’t going to make sense with a suit.
Velvet shoes especially with a suit would look affected, but it’s not impossible and we’ve met some debonair gentlemen in our time that have effortlessly combined the two.
If you’re uncertain, we don’t advise you doing so as this doubt can perceived it. However, if you’re determined, the confidence by itself can help you pull it off.
On the other hand, as we mention above, certain suit shoes pair well with tuxes. Just make sure they shine well!
How To Clean Tuxedo Shoes
The beauty of patent leather is that it’s exceptionally easy to clean. You literally just take a damp cloth and wipe the leather down to remove any dirt or stains. Be careful about scratching patent leather, though.
You can fill in scratches and scuffs on calfskin with shoe cream, but this won’t work on patent. A visible scratch is the aesthetic equivalent of totalling your car.
If your shoes are calfskin, you can read about caring for them (and other types of shoes) in our shoe care guide.
What Next?
Our advice as it relates to tuxedo shoes is to go with patent leather. It’s appropriate for every black tie occasion, and it lends a flair to the ensemble that’s missing when wearing regular calfskin shoes. Tuxedos are for special occasions, so the shoes should be, too.
For more on tuxedos, see our other tux pages:
My
ASTON GREY
LEU OXFORD
Are black. I am not sure if these are acceptable to wear with a tuxedo.
Dear Nick,
Thanks for your comment.
A patent black oxford is a better choice, however we recognize not everyone has the need / budget for this shoe in a squeeze.
The standard oxford, is an acceptable shoe in a pinch and even more so if the toe has a mirror shine.
As the best vale for money shoe to start of a formal wardrobe, you cant beat the versatility of a plain black oxford.
Cheers – Paul
Can I wear Black Velvet loafers with a midnight blue tux?
Thx
Adam
Dear Adam,
Yes I think that would look just fine!
Cheers – Paul
Hello Paul,
I’m going on a yearly family cruise that has multiple formal nights. One of the nights I’m wearing a newly purchased shawl lapel slim tux. Is it considered a faux pas if I wear a patterned Venetian style loafer with a no break hem, or is this look bettered saved for a red carpet event?
Best,
Brian
Hi Brian,
Do you mean patented or patterned? If it’s patented, then that’s absolutely fine with a tuxedo. If you do mean patterned, could you elaborate on this?
All the best,
CP
I was wondering can you wear black chelsea boots with your tuxedo because i want to use it for prom but I don’t it will be good with it? thanks
-Rigo Miguel
Hi Rigo,
Chelsea boots are traditionally quite casual. However, they’re made from smooth full-grain leather and you polish them to a high shine, it might work quite nicely!
Best,
CP
Fab collection of casual and formal shoes.
Thanks, Dean!
Hello! I was thinking about wearing alligator Oxford shoes with a tuxedo. They have a rather high shine and the surface is very soft. Would this be ok or considered a no-go? Many thanks!
Hi Attilo,
This is pretty unconventional and honestly, it probably wouldn’t fare well in more traditional environments. However, if you believe that the shoes are formal and dressy enough for the job, I don’t see why not!
All the best,
CP
can I wear navy blue velvet loafers to a summertime formal event
Hi Jeff,
Are these tuxedo slippers or just regular loafers? If they were tuxedo slippers, then absolutely! However, I fear that regular loafers would be to casual in this context.
Best,
CP
I’m looking at a maroon Venetian Loafers with a black tux, a maroon undershirt, and a cream bow-tie.
Thoughts?
Hi D,
Do you mean a maroon shirt or a maroon undershirt? An undershirt is like a tank top or t-shirt that goes under the shirt so I’m not sure if anyone will see this!
Firstly, I would suggest white as opposed to cream. Cream against maroon may clash, especially against a black tuxedo. Meanwhile, white will provide some pleasant contrast against the overall dark attire.
Assuming you’re referring to the dress shirt as opposed to an undershirt, I’d first like to ask how formal is the event that you’re attending? Opting for anything that isn’t black shoes and a white shirt isn’t usually accepting as formal evening wear so just be mindful of this.
However, if it’s a more casual event such as cocktail attire or black tie optional, a marron shirt and shoe combo might be quite bold and daring!
Best,
CP
My black oxfords may have too much brogue on them, but I’m thinking that my lace-up calf-skin chukka boots can work since I can get them to a pretty shine and there’s no break or brogue on them. Is this too risky?
Hi Michael,
Honestly, I think that this is a little risky. Even black Chukkas are a casual boot design due to their Derby-style open laces. I honestly think that the black oxfords would be a better option out of the two. Failing that, it might be worth investing in some plain toe Oxfords if your budget allows it.
Hello CP
I will be wearing a blue velvet suit with black lapels, white dress shirt, black cummerbund and bow tie, and black trousers to a gala dinner.
Would it be appropriate to wear black velvet shoes with this attire?
Thanks for your help!
Hi Carlos,
I think that’s fine. If you’re feeling a little daring, I think that blue velvet shoes that match the jacket would look even better, though!
Best,
CP
Hi,
I’m going to a black tie event at the end of the month I’ll be wearing black patent tassel loafers is it okay to not wear sock with my trousers?
Thanks.
Hi James,
Personally, I’d wear black socks if I were you. Tassel loafers can already be regarded as a bit of a sartorial stretch with black tie even if they’re patent leather. You might make some monocles pop if you wear them without socks!
Best,
CP
I’m going to a non formal Xmas party and the wife insists I wear a dinner suit, calling it a Tuxedo is just Too American!
Anyhow, she has cut me some slack by allowing me to wear my collar open without a bow tie, but is it OTT to wear red or oranges socks?
Haha, it’s true that “tuxedo” is quite American! If you’re being laid-back about it and the dress code doesn’t insist on formality, I don’t see why you can’t wear red socks! It’s in the season’s spirit, after all!
Best,
CP
It’s my daughters wedding. Is it ok to wear my Allen Edmonds Park Avenues with my tux. I put a mirror shine on them and they’ve only been worn maybe a half dozen times. I would buy a pair of patent leather shoes but can’t think of when I will ever wear them again. Not crazy about the idea of renting shoes as (hygiene aside)I would be concerned about quality and fit. I don’t want to spend the evening getting my feet torn up when I should be having a good time.
Hi Joe,
As a classic cap toe Oxford, Allen Edmonds Park Avenues are absolutely fine to wear for even the most formal events. They’re a great versatile choice and one of our favourites. As you can see, they’re recommended in this very guide at the number 4 position!
All the best,
CP
Seriously interesting stuff shared. Value content. Loving it. Nice idea. This is such an amazing stuff shared on this website
Thanks!
Great information! Thoughts on a monkstrap shoe with a tux?
Thanks, Bryce! Honestly, although it’s quite common, I’d say that it’s a no. In fact, it’s sometimes seen as poor form among more conservative circles. While monk strap shoes are quite elegant, they’re surprisingly casual and are regarded as generally business casual and business professional at the very most.
Your best bet is to go with the simplest and most streamlined shoes possible. Hope that this helps!
All the best,
CP