Lug soles were starting to get out of hand. Thankfully, the uber chic Norbert Stumpfl has brought us all back down to earth with the ultimate palate cleanser: a loafer with a paper-thin sole, which pairs beautifully with Brioni’s refined brand of elegance.

Brioni Appia suede penny loafers, $1,290

The oversize-sneaker trend is finally on the wane—and its demise coincides with the resurgence of all things ’90s. Prada’s ultralight take on the trend, crafted with recycled nylon, is made more interesting by its purposefully distressed suede trim and its rich blue hue.

Prada Collapse sneakers, $975

The Chelsea boot is quickly emerging as the shoe of choice to pair with tailoring. When only the most polished versions will do, look for an elegant almond-shape toe, a slight Cuban-style heel, and a high shine—like this take from Berluti, with a two-tone treatment of black and petrol blue.

Berluti Butteri calf boots, $2,970

Despite being a mainstay, the Belgian loafer is also one of menswear’s most divisive styles. Not into bows, candy colors, or contrasting trim but love the ease of a slipper-like shoe? Look to newcomer August Special, founded by ex–Ralph Lauren designer Joseph Pollard. The brand’s Augie style has all of the genre’s hallmarks without any unnecessary flourishes.

August Special Augie Type-S calf loafers, $590

If 2024’s overabundance of menswear choices taught us anything, it’s that sometimes the humblest option is the best. Take raffia. First embraced by shoemakers when leather was scarce during World War II, the tightly woven palm fibers are ideal for warmer climates, which Canary Islands native Manolo Blahnik surely knows a thing or two about.

Manolo Blahnik Chiltern sandals, $675

Previously published on Robb Report USA

Photography provided by Prada/August Special/Manolo Blahnik, Brioni, Prada, Berluti, August Special, Manolo Blahnik