How to pick the perfect pair of shoes for any occasion | Shoegr

Shoes are more than just something you throw on before heading out the door—they set the tone for your entire outfit and often dictate how comfortable you’ll be throughout the day. Whether you're dressing for a formal event, a casual day out, or something in between, choosing the right pair of shoes can elevate your style and boost your confidence.

So how do you know which shoes to wear, when, and why? Let’s break it down.

1. Start with the Occasion

Different events call for different footwear. Before you even look at color or design, consider where you're going and what you'll be doing.

➤ Formal Events

Think weddings, galas, or business dinners. For these, you can’t go wrong with

• Men: Leather oxfords, loafers, or dress boots.

• Women: Classic pumps, strappy heels, or elegant flats.

Stick to neutral or darker tones unless the dress code allows for some flair.

➤ Business and Professional Settings

You want something that looks polished but is also comfortable enough for a full workday.

• Loafers, block heels, or ankle boots are great options.

• Choose quality materials like leather or suede in neutral shades.

➤ Casual Outings

From brunch to shopping, casual shoes are about comfort and ease, but that doesn’t mean boring.

• Sneakers, flats, or slip-on loafers are perfect choices.

• Experiment with color and texture for a little personality.

➤ Outdoor Adventures or Active Days

Functional is key. For hikes, long walks, or any outdoor activity:

• Go for sneakers with good arch support, hiking boots, or trail shoes.

• Choose breathable, waterproof materials when needed.

2. Prioritize fit and comfort

It doesn't matter how stylish a shoe is—if it’s painful, you won’t wear it. And you shouldn’t have to.

Here’s what to look for:

• Proper arch and heel support.

• A snug but not tight fit.

• Breathable lining to prevent moisture build-up.

• Lightweight construction for all-day wear.

If possible, try shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen. That gives you a more realistic idea of the fit.

3. Match with your outfit

Your shoes don’t have to match your outfit exactly, but they should blend in well.

• Neutral-colored shoes (black, white, brown, nude) go with most clothes.

• If your outfit is simple, you can wear bold or colorful shoes.

• Try not to wear too many patterns at once–if your clothes are printed, wear plain shoes.

• Match shoe style with outfit style–but if you are feeling rebellious you can definitely give this a try.

4. Consider the Season and Weather

Weather plays a big role in choosing the right shoes.

• Rainy season: Waterproof shoes or gumboots. Avoid leather or canvas.

• Winters: Opt for boots, high-tops, or waterproof leather shoes to keep your feet warm and dry.

• Summers: Open-toe sandals, flip-flops, slip-ons, or breathable sneakers are best.

Also, after walking in muddy or rainy areas, clean your shoes properly. Use a repellent water spray like SHOEGR’s to protect shoes from water stains and dirt. It creates a layer on your shoes and keeps them looking new.

5. Shoes for travel

When it comes to travel, packing the right shoes can make or break your experience. Unlike day-to-day outings, travel demands footwear that checks multiple boxes: comfort, convenience, versatility, and durability.

When choosing travel shoes, prioritize comfort for long walks, as sightseeing often means spending hours on your feet. Versatility is key, so opt for shoes that can pair with multiple outfits to save space in your luggage. Lastly, make sure they’re weather-ready to handle unexpected rain, uneven terrain, or cooler evenings.

Top shoe picks for travelers:

• Slip-on sneakers: Ideal for breezing through airport lines and casual days out.

• Supportive walking shoes: Great for exploring cities, museums, and busy itineraries.

• Comfortable sandals or slides: Perfect for warm-weather destinations and relaxing downtime.

• Lightweight boots: A smart pick for cooler climates or more rugged adventures.

Don’t just wear them—care for them

Taking care of your shoes doesn’t have to be complicated, but a few key products can go a long way in preserving their look, feel, and longevity. SHOEGR has what every well-dressed traveler or style enthusiast should have on hand:

• Shoe cleaning kits

These are must-haves for anyone who owns any shoes. A good kit typically includes shoe brushes, cleaning foam or solution, and microfiber cloth or towel. The SHOEGR Instant Pro Shoe Cleaning Kit is a great choice for basic shoe cleaning. However, for high-end multi-material shoes, you would want to invest in the Ultimate Shoe Cleaning Kit. For suede, you should invest in a specialty kit like SHOEGR Pro Suede Kit, whuch comes with a suede brush and eraser.  

Buy now the SHOEGR Instant Pro Shoe Cleaning Kit!

• Waterproof spray

Perfect for protecting shoes in rainy or unpredictable weather, especially when you're on the move. A quality water and stain repellent creates a barrier against moisture and stains, keeping your shoes looking newer for longer. 

• Deodorizers or fresheners

Essential for keeping your shoes smelling fresh. Use them regularly to eliminate odors and keep bacteria at bay—ideal for sneakers, boots, and closed-toe shoes. SHOEGR Charcoal Freshener is made from 100% bamboo charcoal, these sachets absorb and eliminate odors, bacteria, and pollutants.  

• Conditioners and polish

Leather shoes in particular benefit from occasional conditioning to stay supple and crack-free. Use a leather conditioner to restore moisture and finish with a polish to bring back that just-out-of-the-box shine.

• Shoe shine wipes

For quick, mess-free shine anytime, anywhere. These pre-moistened wipes are perfect for last-minute touch-ups before meetings, events, or nights out. The SHOEGR Shoe Cleaning Wipes are meticulously crafted to offer an unparalleled shoe cleaning experience. 

Get the SHOEGR dual-textured Shoe Cleaning Wipes.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right pair of shoes isn't about following trends—it's about knowing your needs, understanding the occasion, and finding something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Whether you're headed to a business meeting, traveling across the globe, or just grabbing coffee with friends, the perfect shoes will support you every step of the way—literally.

And don’t forget: take care of your shoes, and they’ll take care of you. A few quality pairs, properly cleaned and maintained, will always serve you better than a closet full of worn-out, trendy options.