JOIN USChoosing the right pair
Heard of the phrase — ‘judging a man by his shoes’? It clearly defines how important shoes are when it comes to striking a style statement. Slip on a nice pair and you will enhance your overall dress sense. Formal leather shoes have always been in and are ideal for all occasions. Mumbai-based fashion designer Riyaz Gangji, who has designed for the likes of Pooja Bedi, A R Rahman and Priyanka Chopra, speaks to Metrolife about the current trends in formal leather shoes for men and what one must keep in mind while buying them.
Currently, Riyaz is designing formal leather shoes with pointed toes. “I have done 28 different styles in this range. The leather which is being used, is of two types — pure and patron, with the patron leather having a shiny finish,” he explains.
According to the designer, a pair of leather shoes is a must-have for every man. “Leather shoes go well with everything, be it a formal suit or denims,” he notes. He often sports his own shoes, which are off white, white and beige in colour. “Shades of white, off white, cream, cherry, black, brown and beige are totally in. And if you sport a matching belt with them, it looks all the more stylish.”
Riyaz prefers to design shoes in pure leather. “Leather shoes are long lasting, especially if you don’t use them during the rains. If you have four to five pairs of these shoes, they will easily last you a year. But you must give a proper gap between wearing each shoe. If you repeatedly wear the same shoe, the life of the shoe becomes shorter,” he advises.
“Rest your shoes for two days after wearing them as even they need to come back to normal.”
Speaking of the things one must keep in mind while shopping for shoes, he says, “Sole is the most important part. When you are buying a pair, just make sure that the heel and sole are made from one piece. Otherwise, it’s not only uncomfortable but also looks shabby.” He adds, “Comfort is a very important factor while buying shoes too. A certain amount of breathing space is necessary for your feet.”
Is it better to go for branded formal shoes? “Sometimes you find good ones on the streets also,” answers Riyaz. “Indian cobblers make very good shoes but you should know the person you are buying them from.
Riyaz explains that there are various chemicals available for removing stains from shoes. “But it’s better to use pure creams instead.” He adds, “Avoid polishing shoes as much as possible. Though it adds a shine to the shoe, it takes off a shoe’s life and reduces its look and charm.”
Formal goes well with everything
Raghuram, a science student of Christ Pre-University College, loves wearing formal shoes. “Though shoes cover a minimal part of your body, they play a very important role in your appearance. You may be wearing extremely nice clothes but if you are not wearing proper shoes, you fail to strike a statement,” he says. He owns various pairs of branded formal shoes. “Though you get good pairs on the streets, they don’t last long.
I’d rather spend more and buy a good branded pair that lasts long,” he notes. “Also keep the comfort factor in mind. There is no point buying expensive shoes if they are not comfortable at the end of the day.” According to Raghuram, “Subtle colours like ash grey are in. They go extremely well with jeans.” He also has an advise for everyone. “Formal shoes must always be simple, elegant and classic. Don’t go overboard with prints.”