Let’s be honest — footwear is much more than mere utility. Shoes are the foundation of your identity, an essential style language that speaks before you even say hello. But in the ever-shifting landscape of men's style, you have to ask: Are wingtip shoes outdated? Or do these classic castoffs still hold their place in a modern man’s wardrobe?
The Enduring Role of Footwear in Personal Style
Historically, footwear has been one of the most telling indicators of class, profession, and personality. From the elevated boots of Victorian gentlemen to the minimalist sneakers favored by today’s young creatives, shoes have remained a canvas for expression. In menswear, certain styles have parachuted in and out of favor, but a handful of classics persevere — wingtips among them.
You know what’s funny? The men who truly master style aren’t the ones who chase every new fashion craze; they understand that shoes, especially classic shoe styles today like wingtips, loafers, and oxfords, anchor the whole look. Take Allen Edmonds as an example — their meticulous craftsmanship breathes life into traditional forms, making them relevant decades after their debut.
Wingtips vs Brogues: Clearing the Confusion
Before we dissect the modern way to wear wingtips, a quick clarification on terminology is necessary because people often conflate brogues and wingtips. So what’s the distinction?
- Brogues refer broadly to shoes featuring decorative perforations and serrations along the edges — this decoration is called “broguing.” Wingtips are a specific style of brogue in which the toe cap extends into “wings” that run along both sides of the shoe, meeting near the ball of the foot in a W or M shape.
Simply put, all wingtips are brogues, but not all brogues are wingtips. This distinction matters because some men prematurely dismiss wingtips assuming they are loud or outdated, when in fact, the broader brogue family offers many subtler options perfect for the modern closet.
The Dominance of Versatility in the Modern Man’s Wardrobe
Today, versatility is king. If a shoe can’t effortlessly bridge casual Fridays with boardroom meetings, many men shrug it off. This is why brands like Jack Erwin have shaken up the market with clean, modern takes on classics — their collection features wingtips and brogues constructed on sleeker lasts, lighter soles, and sometimes mixed with casual materials like nubuck or suede, inviting easy pairing with denim or tailored chinos.
Ever notice how the strict boundaries between formal and casual footwear have blurred? Puma, for one, has capitalized on this trend by reimagining heritage sneaker lines alongside more polished, hybrid styles. While Puma doesn’t manufacture traditional wingtips, the company’s approach speaks to the larger menswear tendency: convergence and versatility.
The Modern Way to Wear Wingtips: It’s Not Your Grandfather’s Shoes Anymore
Here’s the truth — wingtips will never again be the stiff, overly fussy styles you might picture when thinking of your grandfather’s shoe rack. Today, they’re a key component to versatile wardrobes if you know how to wear them correctly.
Here’s how to wear wingtips in the modern era:
Choose refined silhouettes: Opt for slim-profile soles and subtle broguing. Jack Erwin’s modern wingtips, for example, are more streamlined and less clunky than traditional versions, making them fit more naturally under contemporary trouser breaks. Break the rules on color: Black wingtips are classic but consider deep burgundy, oxblood, or even charcoal to add personality. Experimentation with hue refreshes the style while respecting its heritage. Dress them right — no socks or low-cut socks: This isn’t a loafers-in-summer situation where socks are sacrilege; rather, pairing wingtips with tailored trousers or dark denim and smart socks keeps the look intentional and sharp. Mix textures: Blend smooth calfskin wingtips with wool trousers or corduroys. Alternatively, suede wingtips introduce a casual flair perfect for off-duty sophistication. Avoid the “dirty sneaker” trap: Here’s a pet peeve — wearing worn-out, dirty trainers and calling it “effortless cool.” It’s lazy, not clever. Wingtips communicate care and intention; your footwear should always be well-maintained.Why Wingtips Aren’t Going Anywhere Anytime Soon
With all the noise about sneaker culture and casual footwear dominating, you might think wingtips have been relegated to dusty museum shelves. But consider this: Allen Edmonds and Jack Erwin continue to invest heavily in wingtip ranges because there’s still demand from men who understand that classic shoe styles today make statements that trends can’t replace.
Wingtips https://www.thefashionisto.com/story/rules-footwear-mens-wardrobe/ carry with them a narrative of craftsmanship and heritage, yes, and by extension, a narrative about yourself. Wearing a fresh pair of wingtips tells the world you respect tradition but can tailor it to today’s pace. They’re also a subtle power move; less ubiquitous than plain oxfords yet far more refined than sneakers for most settings.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
Are wingtip shoes outdated? Absolutely not — but the key is evolving how you wear and choose them. They remain a foundational piece in the vocabulary of classic shoe styles today, capable of bridging the casual-formal divide if approached with modern sensibility.
To build a versatile, meaningful wardrobe, consider investing in a well-made pair of wingtips — think Allen Edmonds for heritage finesse, Jack Erwin for streamlined modernity — and treat them with the respect they deserve. Dodge the trap of scuffed, dirty footwear masquerading as “effortless cool,” which is a shortcut to style failure.
Finally, understand that footwear is your first statement in any room. Your shoes don’t just complete your look — they speak volumes about who you are. Wingtips, when worn thoughtfully, remain a powerful voice in that conversation.
In short:
- Wingtip shoes are not outdated; they are classic styles that keep evolving. Broguing and wingtip design add personality and texture, enhancing your look. Modern brands like Jack Erwin and Allen Edmonds offer updated versions that blend tradition with contemporary style. Don’t fall into the “dirty sneaker” trap as a lazy style shortcut. Master the break of your trouser over your wingtips — clean and intentional styling is key.
Step into your wingtips with confidence. They’re as relevant today as when they first soared onto men’s feet over a century ago — and with the right approach, they’ll keep flying high for decades to come.