Monk shoes are a classic men’s shoe with a distinctive buckle at the end of the strap. The most popular models are equipped with two straps, which allows for better adjustment and an easier fit for the foot. Check out what goes best with men’s monk shoes.
If you are looking for original shoes, which will be perfect for casual styles, then monk shoes are the way to go. This timeless model will be appreciated both by enthusiasts of nonchalance in fashion and fans of classic elegance. Find out why monk shoes are the perfect cut for every man.
What are monk shoes and what are their features?
Monk shoes are semi-formal shoes, which are distinguished by their characteristic way of fastening. The shoes have a strap or straps finished with a decorative buckle. They do not have lacing, binding or any other additional decorations. The buckle itself is a decorative element and, at the same time, serves as an effective fastener. The name of the cut comes from the word “monk”, since it was the old clergymen living in the Alps who first started using this type of footwear. Although modern models look slightly different than their original, the fastening method is the same. The monks used buckle straps for practical reasons, as they made putting on and taking off their shoes much quicker and easier.
Nowadays buckles are primarily decorative and can take on a variety of shapes. Since monk shoes are most often seen in informal fashion, buckles are usually oval or rectangular, in shades of brown, gold and silver. The most popular are models with two straps, but more and more often you can also find single strap monk shoes, loved especially by the British. Although there are also shoes with three or even four stripes, such styles are rare and are worn on special occasions. However, most gentlemen choose double monks, which are the most classic and versatile solution. If you are looking for the best model for you, check out the offer of the Marc Nolan brand, where you will find the best selection of men’s dress sneakers.
Double monks – a proven model for special tasks
Double monks are a must have for every man. They will prove themselves in many informal and semi-formal styles. Shoes have two thin, angled straps with buckles. Thanks to that they adjust easily to the foot and add lightness to the entire look. They are especially recommended for men with a higher instep. When matching shoes with the rest of your closet, it is worth paying attention to other accessories. Therefore, buckles should be matched with the color of your watch, jewelry or cufflinks.
Monk shoes are usually found in classic brown and black colors. If you are just beginning your adventure with this cut, got for a dark brown shade. They will go perfectly with a day suit, easing its formality, as well as with jeans, making your everyday style a bit more elegant. Black models are less common and are best matched with grey or graphite pants and a sports jacket. If you like extravagance, you can afford to wear monks without buckled straps. This is a slightly more daring solution, which will be perfect for weekend walks.
Styling with men’s monk shoes
Traditional monk shoes used to have only one strap. Along with the changing fashion and needs of the users, additional ones were added, serving mainly a practical function. Models with two straps look great in both leather and suede versions. You can confidently wear monk shoes to the office, where a formal dress code is in force. Thanks to these shoes, you will break its official nature, and fit in with the office standards at the same time. In this case, go fot models made of grain leather, which is more elegant than suede and will give your image a unique style.
Since monk shoes are semi-formal, they are not recommended for evening suits. You can wear them with everyday jackets and elegant pants, but they will look out of place during lavish parties and official meetings. It is worth pairing them with chinos, as well as with pants with a slightly shorter leg, which will nicely expose the shoes. Although monk shoes are not a common cut, their popularity is slowly growing. That is why it is worth trying different styles, which, thanks to such original shoes, will emphasize your personality.
