Building on recent chatterings about Saks Fifth Avenue, I thought it would be fun to review the store’s current mens shoes collections and pick some of my favorites. The current season offerings are colorful, some with exaggerated soles/wedge heels, and many are constructed using glazed or treated leather, for a buffed, antique look.
“Monday Best” Cole Haan Air Colton Saddle Shoe in Ocean Blue, 200$; perk up your Monday blues with a slick but playful lace-up. It’s got elements of brown, blue, and a hint of yellow at the sole. Citrus tones like yellow and orange are a favorite right now. For work-appropriate shoes, you can’t beat the price, either.
BOSS Black Markon Suede Booties in Dark Green, 275$; I’ve always loved this shade of green. It’s mossy, hearty. I just bought a pair of James Perse sweatshorts that are ‘cactus’ and look very similar in shade to these. It’s a color that works with dark jeans, khakis, and gray chinos. Perforated upper is an interesting touch (hence ‘modern’). Slightly shrunken rubber sole evokes floating to me, like on a pontoon boat.
Tod’s Moccasin Gommini Nuovo in Brown Blasted Suede, 425$; I bought my first (and only) pair of Tod’s loafers in Paris in 2008. Despite wearing them across the world and under varying circumstances, they are still in great condition. These are the quintessential upscale casual look, and I’m loving the alternative to standard suede. Color is very nice too – neutral without being boring or easily marked.
“New York Fruit Roll-Up” 3.1 Philip Lim Steadman Lace-Up Oxfords in Blue Leather, 675$; these kicks just make me smile. They colors are vibrant, the contrasting white sole is fun, and the wedge is very androgynous Manhattan. If you’re feeling adventurous, look no further!
Prada Lace-Up Oxfords in Tan Leather, 580$; I like these because they blend the formal flavor of a brogue with the playful attitude of a sneaker. In different colors, or at a different time, they may not have worked…but in this climate and combination, they’re a lot of fun.
None of these shoes are ‘classic.’ None of them are conservative…noted but unnoticed. For what you’re spending, you might as well get something interesting and different. If you want plain and simple…there are plenty of places to find plainness and simplicity. Beautiful works of wearable art are more exciting and more worth the expense in my opinion.
I’d be happy to possess any of these lovely chaussures.