Contemporary Footwear

The Basic Rules: black, patent-leather or well-shined calfskin, pumps or oxfords

Simplicity and shapeliness remain the benchmarks of formal footwear.  Many of the contemporary oxfords (lace-ups) mirror the current trend for thick soles and square toes seen in informal footwear which makes them inappropriate for black tie. 

Contemporary versions of pumps are often found in the form of more masculine looking slip-ons. Although they have a sole that is slightly thicker than a pump’s and a longer vamp (the piece that covers the top of the foot), the presence of elegant grosgrain accents maintains a high level of formality.