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BoatRich wrote:Is anyone here into higher end dress shoes and such? I recently moved from working retail and food service to an office job and I've found that converting my closet from almost entirely Vans/street wear style shoes is both expensive and a bit of a pain in the ass. However, it's rad seeing how much of a difference in quality price makes in that department for the most part as opposed to on the street wear side where price and hype are basically the same.

Muff_Diver wrote:

BoatRich wrote:Is anyone here into higher end dress shoes and such? I recently moved from working retail and food service to an office job and I've found that converting my closet from almost entirely Vans/street wear style shoes is both expensive and a bit of a pain in the ass. However, it's rad seeing how much of a difference in quality price makes in that department for the most part as opposed to on the street wear side where price and hype are basically the same.

Allen Edmonds are the worldwide staple for a quality, affordable, good-looking dress shoe. They can fit perfectly and comfortably and can last a lifetime with proper care. Johnston and Murphy are similar, but don't have the same style or class as AE, to my mind.
If you're feeling a little more saucy, Alden's are the next step up, but at a considerably higher price point.
There's plenty of other shoe makers and designer versions of these shoes, but nothing can step to these two brands in the under 1k business footwear game.

BoatRich wrote: I've been looking into AE's I just haven't been able to take the plunge yet. I would love a pair of Alden's, but even used they're worth more than my amp... I don't know if I'm cool with that.

Muff_Diver wrote:

BoatRich wrote: I've been looking into AE's I just haven't been able to take the plunge yet. I would love a pair of Alden's, but even used they're worth more than my amp... I don't know if I'm cool with that.

It's worth the plunge. I, too, was a victim to the streetwear game, but have recently redirected my passion to more professional attire.
I own a pair of paul smiths, and they're great shoes- fashion forward, decent construction, and comfortable- but The AE's are a marginally better shoe in every single way. They might seem somewhat boring, but that's exactly what they should be imo. Like a brooks brothers suit, they're never out of style because they're never in style.

Or sell your amp and get a pair of Aldens

BoatRich wrote: I'm not worried about boring shoes honestly, my style tends to fall along the Ivy/trad/prep categories. My main issue is that I constantly see AE's thrifting and I know that they resole/reconstruct them for life, but I can never find any in my size. So basically, it just doesn't seem worth it to buy them for 200+ when I can get them for like 70 if they need any work.

Muff_Diver wrote:

BoatRich wrote: I'm not worried about boring shoes honestly, my style tends to fall along the Ivy/trad/prep categories. My main issue is that I constantly see AE's thrifting and I know that they resole/reconstruct them for life, but I can never find any in my size. So basically, it just doesn't seem worth it to buy them for 200+ when I can get them for like 70 if they need any work.

Not sure where you're located but it would definitely be worth going to an AE store and having them size your foot properly. Regardless, good luck with the hunt!

BoatRich wrote:So how does everyone feel about no socks with Vans/loafers/boats shoes? Or are you guys the kind to always wear them?

foomanfat wrote:wearing shorts.

monkeydancer wrote:Ankle socks. I find no socks too uncomfortable and sweaty.

Mudfuzz wrote:

foomanfat wrote:wearing shorts.

Knee socks always!