The History of Brown Shoes

Many centuries before it came into widespread use, shoes and boots were actually available in a wide spectrum of colors. However, the "No Brown in Town" rule and those who still commonly cite it seem to feel that there are really only two colors for proper dress shoes - brown and black.

Into the 1950s, many were accustomed to seeing brown shoes more often and in a wider variety of settings, therefore, the "No Brown in Town" rule was quickly fading away with a greater emphasis on individual style and the particular outfit as a whole.

Why You Should Wear Brown Shoes

1. Versatility

Brown shoes just pair well with a great many items of clothing. Unlike dower black or other bolder color choices, brown is usually the easiest to pair with the widest amount of other color tones, harmonizing well with various shades across the color wheel.

2. Variety

Because most brown tones are lighter than black, it makes it easier to see the detailing on any given pair of brown shoes. This means that both you and those around you will get to enjoy the quirks and nuances of the various pairs of shoes in your wardrobe.

3. Patina & Personality

Unlike black, brown develops with age, whether this is through the use of different colors of wax and cream polishes, or through natural aging by exposure to different lighting, temperatures, and climates. Brown will develop its own natural patina, making each pair truly unique.

When to Wear Brown Shoes

1. Business Suits

While traditionalists will want to stick with black shoes in a white-collar business setting, brown shoes are absolutely acceptable with business suits 99% of the time in the 21st Century. Aim for darker brown tones with subtle patinas.

2. Everyday/Casual Suits

Outside of the world of fine worsteds and dark suits, brown shoes can really shine. When it comes to suits in lighter tones, relaxed fabrics, and more playful stylings, you have the full spectrum of brown shoes at your disposal.

3. Odd Combinations

You can apply brown shoes to a wide range of clothing choices, from sport coats and odd trousers to chinos and overshirts. Lighter shades of brown and tan work well for these more casual ensembles.

When NOT to Wear Brown Shoes

There's really only one situation where brown shoes should NEVER be worn: with the most formal of dress codes, Black Tie, White Tie, and Morning Wear. For these occasions, you should stick to patent leather or highly-polished calfskin footwear in black.

Brown shoes might also not work with very dark, conservative business suits on the grayscale. Black shoes are the safest choice in these instances.

Overall, brown shoes are a versatile and stylish option that can elevate a wide range of outfits. By understanding when and how to wear them, you can add a touch of personality and sophistication to your wardrobe.