Black Brogues Shoes

Black brogues are a dependable choice for work, weddings, evening events and other smart occasions. They sit slightly below a plain black Oxford in formality, but the darker colour keeps the decorative brogue detailing refined and easy to pair with tailoring.

Black, charcoal and mid-grey tailoring are the safest matches. Navy also works when the rest of the outfit is suitably smart. For a more relaxed look, wear black brogues with dark, clean denim or tailored trousers rather than light or heavily distressed jeans.

Brogue describes the decorative perforations, while Oxford describes the closed-lacing construction. A shoe can be both an Oxford and a brogue. Plain Oxfords are generally more formal; brogue detailing adds texture and makes the shoe easier to dress down.

Remove dust with a soft brush, apply a small amount of black polish and buff with a clean cloth. Several thin layers create a better shine than one heavy coat. Use shoe trees after wear and let damp leather dry away from radiators before polishing.