Wardrobe Essential: The Brogue

If there’s one shoe that embodies the aesthetic of a gentleman, it’s the brogue. Categorised by its distinctive perforation and signature silhouette, the brogue was originally designed for use by farmers in Scotland and Ireland – the holes allowed water to seep out during the harsh weathers that they faced.

Today though, the brogue is just at home in the city as it is in the country. It’s the go-to choice for the sartorially inclined and is seen on the feet of some of the most stylish men on the planet. Timeless in every sense of the word, the brogue is a true wardrobe essential. Here are the styles you should be wearing.

CLASSIC, , If you’re going to purchase just one pair of brogues, then these should be it. With a Goodyear Welted leather sole, full broguing, five-eyelet lacing and a rich tan leather finish, Grenson Stanleys offer the ultimate in everyday wearability, and should be at the top of your wish list.

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Grenson Stanley Tan Leather, £205 from Selfridges

CLASSIC UPDATED, , This country brogue has all the makings of a classic, but goes about its business in a slightly different way. Its eyelets are oversized, its sole has a split welt and it’s finished in tan pebble grain leather, which perfectly borders the line between rugged and refined.

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Loake Otterburn Tan Pebble Grain Leather, £215 from Herring

TWO-TONE, , If you can’t decide whether you’d like a smooth or grain leather finish on your brogues then these may well be for you. Two-tone wingtips are synonymous with 1920s style, but these have been updated with a massive double sole and oversized eyelets, making them perfect for work or play.

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Herring Sandhurst Chestnut Calf Pebble Grain Leather, £275 from Herring

SUEDE, , Navy shoes are underrated. Navy suede shoes are damn near neglected. Despite what you might think, suede is highly wearable and can be suitable year-round, so long as the weather permits it. Wear these with neutral chinos and a sharp oxford shirt and you’ll be the best dressed man in the room.

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Herring Newbury Navy Suede, £235 from Herring

All-BUSINESS, , Despite their humble origins on the farm, brogues now have solid associations with business wear. Differentiated with their more causal cousins by its single black leather sole, small broguing and sleek silhouette, these Church’s will finish off your tailored suit with aplomb.

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Church’s Chetwynd Black Leather, £395 from Selfridges

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