In generations past, menswear stereotypes were set forth authoritatively as obligatory. Today, however, changes in menswear seems to transition faster than a subway turnstile in New York City at rush hour. Although, for most conservative American men, change in style is not always met with contentment. The reassessment of masculinity may work for trendy fashion designers hoping to make a bold statement of change, but not in the real world brother… How about no!
Let’s face it, self-expression is a good thing but society has established codes of masculinity and style that most men feel comfortable abiding by day-to-day.
I have to tell you, that upon reviewing men’s fashion week last fall, I was, for the most part, utterly underwhelmed. I felt as if brands were shoving the idea of gender-neutral style down my throat. Even luxury menswear brands in showing in Milan and Paris showcased men parading down the runway in skirts, dresses, high-heels and make-up! Seriously. Give me a break!
Call me old-fashioned or just plain old but I find it truly embarrassing to present this crap to men under the auspice of great change. Bull. It is not happening now and might not ever happen. Men dress like men and they prefer to dress that way. Basta. Many times at fashion shows and events, I get an eery feeling as if an unknown creepy cult is promoting this bizarre agenda. And they wonder why sales are low?
When I speak about men of modern style, which I do quite often, I prefer to address contemporary men whose aim it is to make a bold statement with confidence and spirit in wearable menswear. If a man so wishes to express his unconventionality then so be it. Nevertheless, I can assure you as a day is long that 99.% of American men choose to dress in pants, not skirts. If you don’t believe me, then ask the men in your life and see how they respond to you?
Quite frankly, when I listen to a designer or brand informing me that men are comfortable wearing dresses….. I tune out at once —as I know it is a lie or a wish. Simply stated, I do not buy into style indoctrination.
On the contrary, when men wear footwear, it is about exhibiting emotion. Footwear for men, is better suited to have hints of self-expression and attention to detail. In fact, footwear styles today transcend the concept of cool —while embracing comfort, functionality and a whole lotta style!
More to the point, mens footwear aims at introducing young professionals to footwear that provides comfort without compromising style. In short, new models appear to be a shoe on the outside but feel like the most comfortable sneaker on the inside. Product offerings today aim at introducing young professionals to footwear that provides comfort without compromising style. Sneakers that have a racy feel and even a handful of cool ankle boots – many designed and manufactured with sustainable efforts in mind.
And for those aiming to seek gender-neutral style, I selected one boot with a heel that may tickle your fancy – especially if you like that neo- rock and roll vibe.
Nevertheless, for those seeking cool front-runner style, discover these 2021 product offerings that are reliable but never ever boring! And remember guys, men prefer to dress like men.
Alexander McQueen:
Alexander McQueen– Alexander McQueen Tread Slick Chelsea Boot. $780
Allen Edmonds:
Allen Edmonds-The Allen Edmonds Courtside Sneaker requires minimal styling and gives work-to-weekend versatility to this elevated sneaker as it is designed for all-day comfort and great durability. Made with a super soft leather, this shoe provides enhanced support and shock absorption with a FlyForm removable insole. $245
Amberjack:
Amberjack-Amberjack, a men’s dress shoe line aimed at introducing young professionals to footwear that provides comfort without compromising style. Each Amberjack shoe is made with proprietary comfort science; pre-stretched A-grade full grain leather, silk soft antimicrobial lining, heat activated arch support, shock absorbing EVA cushion, and a mechanically designed dual density outsole. $179.99
Balmain:
Balmain.com-The B-Runner’s easy-to-wear and light design is designed to complement both sporty and more classic Balmain looks, with the sneaker being an ideal shape and weight for each part of the day—from hikes in the hills and commutes through the urban jungle to today’s new reality of teleconferencing from the kitchen table. B-Runner’s fresh new low-top offering is an ideal lightweight, flexible and breathable everyday addition to the ensemble of every Balmain Army recruit. $650
House of Bijan:
Made using perforated leather and deerskin detailing, these luxurious sneakers will keep you looking fresh all winter long. $1,800
BIRKENSTOCK:
Birkenstock-The Stalon from BIRKENSTOCK is the best boot for the modern man. BIRKENSTOCK’s version of the Chelsea boot combines style with comfort that easily translate from day to night. The water-repellant oiled nubuck leather keeps you ready for any terrain whether walking to work or taking a hike. $200.00
CANALI:
CANALI-The Wool Knit Runners are the best sneaker for the everyday man. They are the lightweight and practical choice keeping you comfortable throughout the day. Every detail of the sneaker is meant to add an incomparable softness and elegance to your daily look and express the personality of the wearer. $795.00
Celine:
CELINE– THE CELINE TRAINERS ARE A NEW RANGE OF SNEAKERS FOR THE SPRING SUMMER 2021 MEN’S “DANCING KID” COLLECTION. MADE IN ITALY WITH A MOLD TECHNIC, THIS TECHNIC ENSURES A LONG LASTING SNEAKER AS THE OUTSOLE IS GLUED AND THEN STITCHED TO THE UPPER. THE CELINE TRAINERS ARE AVAILABLE IN A RICH MIX OF CONTRASTING COLORS AND MATERIALS IN BOTH HIGH TOP AND MID TOP. $760
Courser:
Courser is breaking from convention combining athletic style and luxury to create a never before seen third space in the sneaker category: Hyper-luxe. Each pair is handmade in Italy by the most sought after craftsmen utilizing cutting edge technologies and materials. With Courser shoes, you can wear them day after day with no rebound. Courser shoes last around 2500 miles (while most shoes last 300-440 miles) 100% Carbon fiber optimizing performance for a superior ride, better biomechanics, and reduced injury risk (most shoes are 6-8%) Courser’s midsole/outsole is revolutionary, utilizing a breakthrough compound that provides a cushioned ride with virtually no compression. $825
DSQUARED2:
DSQUARED2– Taking into consideration their Canadian roots, the Catan twins designed sleek leather ankle boots, for their Fall/Winter 20 collection, creating the ultimate go-to for fashionable but practical winter weather dressing. $1,270
8 by YOOX:
These black, leather Chelsea boots from 8 by YOOX are the coolest staple all winter long. Pair them with a pair of your favorite distressed denim, a graphic tee and cool jacket for an edgy look. $210
Golden Goose:
Golden Goose-Inspired by rock icons’ dressing, these luxurious ankle boots are made of precious cow leather. These are an essential for winter thanks to their versatility and elegance. $745
ICEBERG:
Run for it in ICEBERG’s Men’s paneled sneaker. Suede panel detailing in blue, gray, and black with a fuchsia pink stripe on each side and chunky charcoal gray sole with deep tread finish with a cushioned charcoal heel and silver ICEBERG logo. $343
KEEN:
KEEN Footwear—We created a premium version of our iconic Uneek hybrid sneaker sandal to meet the request and demands of KEEN’s most discerning fans. These hand-crafted beauties deliver exceptional comfort, rich, veg-tanned leathers, and the knowledge that they are consciously created to help reduce our impact on the planet. $225
KOIO:
KOIO —The newly launched Koio Chukka is a must have for men, featuring a modern and refined sole fused with a classic Chukka upper resulting in a perfect mix of style, comfort, and versatility. The Chukka features a Koio ReCycled™ Sole [68 TPU], made up of 68% pre-consumer recycled material – trimmings that historically ended up in landfills. In addition, with every pair made, 345 grams of waste is saved, which is the equivalent of 63 single-use plastic bags. This shoe goes everywhere with you, whether it’s dining outside under the heat lamps or your future travels.
Marcelo Burlon, County of Milan:
Marcelo Burlon, County of Milan-These C-Run 3000 sneakers from Marcelo Burlon will take you far and wide… literally. So, where to? Featuring a round toe, a lace-up front fastening, a pull tab at the rear, a logo at the sidewall and a thick rubber sole. $450
Moncler:
Moncler– The Trevor sneakers for men showcase a bold graphic design that combines running inspiration and Moncler’s heritage details. This style is crafted in a n innovative mix of leather, neoprene and mesh which combines durability, flexibility and breathability The rubber eye-stays are both an aesthetic and performance detail that provide support. $620
Officina Slowear:
Officina Slowear-This iconic footwear from Officina Slowear has a retro look but is also able to constantly renew itself and be contemporary and stylish. The soft suede leather and the characteristic sole make for a comfortable fit and the perfect men’s shoe for fall. The accessory completes its character, bestowing elegance and personality.Price: $675
Sebago:
Sebago-Made of smooth corrected grain leather to stand the test of time and hand-sewn with the finest craftsmanship, these casual moccasin-toe dress loafers feature a decorative bit and come with upper unlined, leather sock lining and natural leather soles with moulded rubber heel. The “Joe” loafers are a homage to the passion of the Sebago founders. $180
Superga:
Superga’s leather 2750 NAPPALEAU sneaker is a fall/winter must-have. These beauties are the lace ups you love with a luxury finish that can be dressed up or down. $89
Thousand Fell:
Thousand Fell—Born out of a passion for keeping footwear out of landfill, Thousand Fell’s must-have classic white slip-on and lace-up sneakers are built to last and made to recycle, out of “super-ingredients” like aloe vera, coconut husk and quartz that also make them ultra-comfortable, durable and odor resistant. Thousand Fell is truly full-circle footwear because of their circular take back program that encourages their customers to return their once-loved sneakers so that Thousand Fell can give them a second life (through biodegrading, recycling and/or upcycling). In exchange for the simple act of returning the sneakers via their free shipping label, Thousand Fell will give you $20 toward your next pair. And specifically for the 2020 holiday season, Thousand Fell is giving back even more – for every purchase of sneakers or a gift card over $100, Thousand Fell will donate $20 to The OR Foundation in support of their mission to solve the massive problem of textile waste. $120 for first pair; $100 for every pair thereafter, upon receiving the $20 credit for returning your worn pair for recycling.
TOD’S:
TOD’s– Tod’s No_Code X High Tops are the perfect functional sneaker with a timeless style. For this new model, designer Yong Bae Seok was inspired by the work of Mario Bellini. “A piece of design transcends the concept of beauty and embraces an idea that mixes functionality with a style that lasts over time,” stated Yong Bae Seok, Head Designer of No_Code. Tod’s No_Code X High Top sneakers are available in black and white elegant leather with a side monogram and a rubber outsole. $795
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