Tip: when you feel like you have nothing to wear, start with the shoes. The shoes will set the tone for the entire outfit, so consider how formal the event will be. If it’s just class at uni, start with a comfortable shoe that is not dressy and build your way up, so on and so forth...
That Mr. Clean magic eraser point is straight FACTS! I've been using one for the better part of a decade, and I have to say that Courtney is 100% right on this.
For those interested in saving money, Adidas now has a low cut all white shoe with a leather upper called the "Nizza RF". It is currently for sale on the Adidas website for $48 (marked down from $80). It is lower cut than the regular Stan Smiths. It is similar to the old Jack Purcell canvas sneakers, but with a leather upper and some leather lining. It does have a minimalist heel pull but no labelling markings except for an almost unnoticeable 'Adidas' in grey and white on the tongue. In addition there is stiching on the sides instead of the air holes, reminiscent of the old KSwiss sneakers. Very nice for the price, but comfort wise a lot like the old Jack Purcells (not terribly cushy). I will add that the more cream colored sole contrasts a bit with the white uppers which I actually like . . .
Really enjoy the content you put out! It’s really nice to hear everything from men’s wear to dating advice from a woman’s perspective. Keep up the good work!
At first I was reluctant to watch Courtney’s videos, focusing on the Daddy of RU-vid Alpha M. and for some reason thinking that watching one or the other were mutually exclusive. After watching some of her videos here and there and now subscribing, I’m loving the content. Excellent advice on a consistent basis, not condescending either, and as a guy it’s quite beneficial to hear a woman’s perspective as well. Genuinely helpful. Thanks Courtney
Ahhh thank you so much! I think it’s great there are so many different RU-vidrs to watch and I think we all offer something unique. Thanks for the comment, Sam! Happy to have you here! 👏🏼
Good on you, only watching Aaron would be quite narrow minded and not wise at all imo, says and does some stuff that is just not right and you need some other people to correct him on that
Just a word of caution on the magic eraser tip, the reason they seem like magic is because they actually scrape away a slight layer of the shoe's fabric each time you use it--creating the appearance of the dirt/grime/gunk being wiped away. They are good for spot fixes here and there, but for really deep cleaning, it could end tearing away more of your fabric than you'd want. For my white shoes, I use a shoe spray with a brush or a towel and that seems to do the trick. Big tip is to absolutely clean your shoes as soon as possible from when you notice that they're dirty, otherwise it will have more time to set in and be harder to clean later on
Another cool video. 😁 I love how you come up with varied and helpful tips on subjects that alot of us guys don't think too much about. Really appreciate an honest woman's perspective. I'm adding a couple of new shoes to my collection, so thank you!
@@wesrm1 😭😭😭😭 they’ve become the shoe of the womanizer/hotep/misogynist. It’s like the stereotypical brunch shoe. Not even anything wrong with the shoe more than it is about people who wear it and the fact that what was once a joke has now become an official stereotype amongst millennial/genz yuppies
I had my Tims for almost 20 yrs and after many years hiking around a dozen countries, they finally took a dump. I was heading back with a few miles left and my sole came off...Lucky I had duct tape for a temp fix.
Great tips Courtney, totally agreed! As someone whose personal style is obsessively basic and minimal (exclusively black and grey), here's what I've found: - Chelsea boots are awesome, just don't approach them like dress shoes. No patent or highly polished leathers, no flat soles and low heels, no pointy toes. When in doubt, better to go slightly chunkier. This avoids the "skinny jeans and Chelsea boots" stereotype. I love Blundstones for daily wear- they go with everything- and I like Beckett Simonon's Preston model for a slightly nicer look like dark denim and a grey blazer. - I wear boots and high-tops exclusively as I have a weird aversion to showing my ankles, ever, and I think the taller profile of a boot makes for a nicer visual transition from foot to leg. My dress shoes are actually dress boots. Loake and Herring make a variety of great models, decent quality leather for very affordable prices, made in the UK. - Since I usually wear black, I go with a black sneaker instead of white. High-top, of course. Recently graduated from Jak to Crown, and I love them. Never used to think of myself as a "fashion sneaker" guy but now I really enjoy wearing them. - Don't shy away from taller-shafted boots. I've worn a pair of Chippewa 12" engineers for over 7 years and 3 resoles and they're still going strong. This is a secret weapon for short guys too- the naturally taller heel of engineer/motorcycle boots can add a half-inch or even a full inch to your height. - All of these look better with slim, straight jeans or a very slight boot cut. The hem should reach all the way to the shoe- no excess fabric stacking, and definitely not cropped above the ankle. Skinny jeans are over, guys- and if we're being honest, we should all admit that they never looked good in the first place. Straight-fit pants looked good in the 60s, and in the 80s, and they're still the best option today.
Agreed on the shoe choices, though I'd add a one more. Let's recap: - White sneakers -- I like this for basics. I'd go one further for those who don't like white sneakers, to go with white bottoms, neutral color (gum soles should go with Prada sneakers). - Athletic shoes -- If in the gym, or running? Nike Free and Hoka low-profiles. - Boots -- I recommend Frye boots, for the all-around stylish boots, with quality. A little pricey. but so worth it. Go with the John Addison Style, for solid results. I recommend four pairs; two mid cut, two regular cut; black, brown, and cherry leather goes a long way. - Dress Shoes -- Again, I go with Frye dress shoes, though I also wear Johnston and Murphy shoes. One should have four dress shoes, IMO, though I believe one for every day of the week goes a long way. And if you don't know how to shine? Either learn, or have them sent to a shop. If you're working in downtown Cleveland, I recommend "The Brass Tack" in East 4th Arcade for shoe shine service. Get black, brown, cherry and tan, so you round out your look. If you get a fifth shoe? Have it in "matte", with the other four shined. Now, the fifth one I think that is overlooked: LOAFERS. When getting loafers? Don't overshine. This shoe goes well with the relaxed, dressed for style, but not overdoing it set. Consider this, as you're wearing the suits or outfits with drawstring waist, the shirts that are untucked, and jackets that flow (Emporio Collezione Summer '23 for reference)
Yesterday i just decided buying shoes for building my wardrobe and you uploaded video with exact topic all I need . Thank you Courtney Ryan this video help me lot .
Much as I love Courtney's new videos, man, it was lovely watching this oldy. I love style, Courtney clearly has a passion for it and knowledge of it. If you're reading this Courtney, would love to see more style-centric videos. All the best.
Touched on it with the sneakers, but it applies to the other styles too. Take care of your shoes/boots. Especially if you go for leather. Shoe polish and leather conditioner along with a quality shoe/boot will make it so your investment lasts for years. Great list. That being said, my preferred boot is a leather lace up from Red Wing boots called the Blacksmith in a color they call Briar. I've had them for years and they're a great boot.
My favourite are sneakers, but black. There's almost no issue with getting them dirty. They look clean even if I don't have time to brush them, they can be dressed up, they can be dressed down, they are extremely versatile. But accidentaly I have almost the same set. 1. black sneakers, 2. shoes for workout, 3. winter boots, 4. more elegant pair to wear with a suit, or generally to dress up. Plus a bonus: shoes for "special operations" like walking in the woods, hiking, shooting range, generally where they can get dirty easily.
My recommendations: -Premium leather white sneakers with Margam soles (white and gum) Artisan Lab -Thursday Captain Brown -Black RM Williams Comfort Craftsman -All black Nike Air max 270 -Black or brown leather Oxfords -black leather mule slippers for home working 😁
Instead of white sneaker I would pick either suede derby, moccasin/boat shoe, desert boots or similar casual style. Dress shoes - check for different levels of formality - oxford, derby, brogues and match color to outfit (browns with blues or greys, not so much with charcoal or black). I have black oxfords for formal occasions and brown derby shoes / brown brogue boots for semi formal and casual. Athletic sneakers is something I would only take for running. There are better options for casual.
Good list Courtney! FYI - Stan Smith runs a half size big. I tried Thursday boots. I was shocked at how heavy they were. Heavier than a pair of steel toe I have. Not for me. I went with AF Brown Suede lace up.
- 00:00📺 Introduction: Courtney Ryan introduces herself and outlines the video’s focus on four essential sneakers for men. - 00:05👟 Versatility: Emphasizes the importance of versatile wardrobe pieces, especially for building a capsule wardrobe. - 01:06🩴 White Sneakers: Highlights white sneakers as the most versatile footwear, suitable for both casual and slightly dressed-up looks. - 01:57🧽 Cleaning Tips: Recommends using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser to maintain the cleanliness of white sneakers. - 02:18👟 Alternative Colors: Suggests solid-colored sneakers (brown, black, navy, gray) for those who dislike white sneakers. - 03:18👟 Athletic Sneakers: Advises choosing athletic shoes based on the type of physical activity, recommending flat shoes for lifting and running-specific shoes for runners. - 04:30🏋♂ Usage Tips: Notes that athletic shoes are suitable for athleisure outfits or casual errands but not for more formal settings. - 05:34🥾 Boots: Recommends leather lace-up boots for their attractive and versatile nature, suitable for both casual and dressier outfits. - 06:02👢 Chelsea and Chukka Boots: Suggests Chelsea boots and chukka boots as alternatives, highlighting personal style preferences. - 07:28👞 Dress Shoes: Stresses the necessity of dress shoes for formal occasions, preferring brown oxford dress shoes for their versatility. - 08:24🖤 Black Dress Shoes: Highlights black dress shoes as another versatile option, with wingtips providing a more detailed look. - 09:02🔍 Conclusion: Recaps the four essential types of shoes for a versatile and minimalistic wardrobe, encouraging viewers to follow her on Instagram for more tips.
I would add a 5th pair- an all purpose beat up/work pair of shoes you can wear that you don't really care about too much. Not because they're stylish, but because you can wear them when you need to do something that might get them dirty or messed up and save your good shoes for when you want to look good.
I gotta push back a little on the "throw away the boat shoes." I keep a pair because I hate flip flops and I don't always like wearing sneakers with my chino/khaki shorts. What is important to remember is that under no circumstances are the boat shoes dressy.
White sneakers are versatile and do indeed look great. The fabric ones are very cool but even harder to keep clean than the leather ones. New laces will revamp white sneakers but only to a point. Basically you will forever be trying to keep these shoes clean. But here's the thing - they are still worth it because you will get a lot of admiration - sharp with true (very dark) navy jeans. If you get just one cut above budget, that extra ten or twenty dollars can make a massive difference in quality - and you can still replace your footwear without breaking the bank.
The only thing I can up of is in the boots side. Army Combat boots the Black is the best tuff souls wear like steel polish them up can be used as a dress shoe if needed, My pairs that I had lasted me over 5 years there one of the long lasting boots if you take care of them. When you polish them up there also water prof to a point.
Hello Courtney, I absolutely love the videos you post. You are by far the most humble and kind style/relationship expert I've ever seen on youtube! You're very inspiring, can't wait to see what you post next! I hope life is treating you well during these uncertain times we're living in. I have a question about Chelsea boots. Can a guy can wear black chelsea boots with a semi formal black suit? Sincerely, Danny
Great list and recommendations! Nice to know I nailed all those shoes except the white casual sneakers. I’m sticking with my black converse, way less maintenance. They go great with jeans. Big fan of Thursday boots and the stylish shoes from Johnson & Murphy. You should also do a list on best shoes and sandals for men wearing shorts.
I am predominantly a leather high-top sneaker guy (Mr. Hare, Diesel). I have a pair of all white Saint Laurent sneakers which I wear quite often. For formal wear, I have a pair of black Ferragamos that I've had for years. Dressy casual, I have a pair of black Gordon Rush. For leisure, I'll wear my black Yeezy's and Nike Air Max 1's.
Ahh Thursday boots, when I discovered discovered them like 7 years ago I felt in love with boots. For me it is always complicated, I travel plenty and mostly to warm climates, can't carry many shoes and boots/dress shows in Thailand for a day out are not a great idea. I am the kind that has never liked the white sneakers but I have to admit that they simply work, in mi view you may get a pair with a little distinctive detail or slightly different shade from white to look a bit different and it is all about what do you combine it with, I really despise looking like everyone else but you can pull it off. Now, never forget the al mighty crocs, they work everywhere and for all purposes in you are in Asia xD
Your videos are really a breath of fresh air. In a sea of these toxic alpha male videos, hearing a female take on men's fashion is really refreshing. Keep it up!
@@OoooooSsssssssss to an extent. If you look like the goddamn slender man or you look like you've never eaten a vegetable or gone for a run once in your life, confidence will only get you so far. But if you're not obese or don't look like you have anorexia, then yeah confidence is one of the most important factors
For healthcare workers Reeboks are where you want to be. I got a huge issue with the white sneakers, I live in Michigan. If it is not snowing then it is raining, white shoes can get so dirty from the weather. So only white sneakers in the summer! Totally agree with the rest of the video.
I tested many clothes before covid and one look came out on top and had many, many ladies moving chairs and tables for me, waitresses cleaning tables for me and being greeted in coffee shops time and time again...twice I was asked if I had a love interest..this was in three day periods. From the top down...Dark Green beanie hat(I have long brown hair), Ray bans, light blue jumper(v-neck), white T-shirt, Long light grey button-up coat, smart grey jeans, tan leather lace-up shiney shoes...and a smile, without teeth showing. I stood at a bus-stop recently and was offered two lifts...by pretty ladies. I smiled, thanked them both and told them I enjoyed buses...they gift options to rarely be stuck in traffic.
Thursday Boots are my go to for almost any outfit year round (also since theyre leather it took a while for them to break in and for the first couple times I wore them they hurt my feet but after you break them in they're great) and white or black Vans for spring or summer. Also Timberlands are amazing for most situations, I personally wear mine hiking/camping and in the fall/winter.
Hey guys, quick tip to choose the white sneaker based on my experience: Make sure to buy a sneakers that is made of cotton or another comfy and padded fabric (adidas, nike, Zara, etc.) so you can wear them comfortably in casual situations. I own one from Heiring and it’s just uncomfortable to wear and walk with when using invisible socks because the fabric is too thin and kinda more delicate.
To expand on dress shoes: Oxfords: More formal (business suits) Derbys and bluchers: more casual (casual suits, chinos, dark denim) Loafers: more casual
7 shoes men should own 1. Slippers, 2. Sandal, Crocs, slipons or water shoes, 3. Athletic shoes, 4. Casual sneakers, 5. Boots, 6. Black Dress shoes, 7. Work shoes or boots Optional 8.sniw boots, 9. Yard shoes (cheap beaters for mowing and working on car, etc)
As usual the girl is spot on. My only addition would be for dress shoes and boots don't go cheap, make sure they have replaceable soles (Goodyear welted) and get rubber Dainite soles for adverse weather. Being British means good quality shoes, such as Cheaney, Barker, Loake etc can go back to the factory, put on the original lasts and have a heel and sole replacement and come back looking like new.
I think the most versatile shoe you can own is a dark brown Chelsea boot. You can wear it casual to business and all year round, unless it's realllllly hot or realllllly cold
Good video. I appreciate your opinions, but I have two points I'd like to make. Sneakers, whether white or not, are worn by teenagers or when exercising. That's it. No self-respecting adult male with style would ever consider sneakers as a go-to form of footwear. Boat shoes are way more comfortable and stylish. Sneakers should be for sports/exercise purposes only. While I whole heartedly agree with Chelseas and Oxfords, how about Derbies and Monk Straps? And how could you not mention loafers? From penny to horsebit to tassel, loafers strike the perfect balance between casual and business casual as they can easily be dressed up and down depending on the occasion.
I think this is good advice; start with the basics and go from there. Good suggestion Courtney 👍 It rains where I live (Ontario, Canada) so on those days I wear a pair of black Nike “Duck” boots (they are like AF 1’s) but are waterproof. It also snows where I am, so I wear either a brown or black Dakota 529 work boot. Also use those when cutting the grass/gardening.
My favorite is the low-top hiking boot/shoes. General boots as well. My issue is it brings the tops of doorways that much lower so I have to be more aware I don't walk into them. Sooooo......I wear athletic shoes quite a bit as well and have more clearance (skull safety).
I have a pair of white sneakers and have worn them maybe twice I have 17,000 different pair of athletic shoes (zero drop running, zero drop trainers, converse for leg day, indoor court court shoes, outdoor court shoes, biking shoes, hiking boots, hiking toe shoes) My Thursday boots are my dress shoes. good nuff
Being a classic gentleman shoe guy, I have to say that your opinion is well-rounded and spot on; I don't disagree with any of your points. I was going to disagree with your white sneaker opinion, but you rounded it off by suggesting alternative solid colours - I think brown leather sneakers are better, because when they look a little dirty or worn out, they look better - but white sneakers must always be kept clean, which is annoying. Although I like white sneakers, I only ever wear them if there is little chance of getting them dirty, and I always clean them after every wear. Also, you missed a point: you can't wear athletic shoes with jeans - it looks too dad.
athletic sneakers only if you workout, otherwise the only other use is to go to Walmart. Casual sneakers, some sort of boots, a type of a loafer and an oxford/derby type shoes,
This was a few years ago, when Payless Shoe Source had actual stores. I would get decent-looking mens shoes, for great prices. I wonder if even some of those State Street dress shoes brands were ok and passable. I know that they're not Bostonians or Penny Loafers. My best area of dress, was jackets, and I've always been bad with shoes (except for high school and college, when having Nike Airs was the great thing for males.
Being diabetic and having neuropathy on my feet I am fairly limited to just using my orthopedic shoes i get from my podiatrist. That being said I do have dress shoes in the case of interviews or weddings I can wear, as I don't have them on long. I am thinking if I can find some boots, and all-white sneakers with removable insoles, I can put my orthopedic soles in them instead. I'll also have to get more of them too, but it seems doable!
I completely agree with the chukka boot comment. They always just seemed too low to me, almost like they weren't confident enough to be a full boot or like the wearer wasn't ready for an actual boot. I do also see them as the first step up from boat shoes, usually in highschool to college aged men.
If you don’t have a Lotta money to spend on clothes the trick is to just buy one item every once in a while, give it a few months or even a year and your wardrobe will grow into a wide variety.
The standard for men's dress shoes, as far as I'm concerned, is the black Florsheim wing-tip oxford. I had several pair and had them re-soled and re-heeled dozens of times. Good video, Courtney!
Throw my boat shoes away? Never. Prep style is life. Along with shell Cordovan penny loafers from C&J and Loro piana summer walks, boat shoes are my go to. Dress shoes have a time and place, and I have many as well. Every man need both -boat shoes (or other casual shoes) and dress shoes. Do not throw your boat shoes away, unless it’s to upgrade to better boat shoes.
No running shoes, Yes thursday boots! I'm wearing my first pair this month and absolutely love them. Get to stand out. Just have to manage the rain hahaha.
As a slip on shoes lover, i have a few.. but i really like the new balance A17 and puma MY64. Other slip ons are by hugo boss green the maze slon tech, maze memory foam, akeen 1 arkansas and many more...
I can do a better recommendation: 1) Black dress shoe (Oxford) 2) Dark Brown Loafer 3) Lighter brown brogue Oxford or derby 4) Chukka boot (NOT Chelsea that’s for girls) preferably in suede 5) White Sneakers 6) Gym shoes/Trainers Best Brands: John Lobb, Edward Green, Gaziano Girling, Common Projects, On Running. However these are all expensive because they are in fact the best you can buy for a ready to wear shoe excluding bespoke options. All together this cost me around $7,000 since I picked the best in each category. If you can’t or don’t want to pay that much I’d highly recommend Carmina in Spain for many of these options. Quality is outstanding for the price. White sneakers/gym shoes just do ones you like that are comfortable and look good to save money if not picking from brands listed above.
Thursday Captain Boots are a good choice; I am happy with mine in Brandy. I also would select Allen Edmonds for a quality dress shoe instead of Johnston and Murphy's as they are well made in America. I have had both. Johnston and Murphy no longer manufacture shoes in America; the quality is gone. Just a thought.
Chelsea boots are the real gentleman's trend! Keeping them well nourished and conditioned will maintain their newness for longer. Glad I'm subscribed to your channel Courtney who looks beautiful as always ❤️
Hi Courtney, i love the way you talk. Can you make a video about which style a guy should choose. I have been suffering to find the right style that fitts my personality😅
One thing I try to look for is a footwear that could go with many things so I could save money. It’s difficult to just look for one footwear to match a few things but i think it’s rare for a footwear to match many
