DS is off to a new sixth form in September. Dress code is strict-ish: “smart business attire” with “formal leather shoes” specified. His Year 10/11 school shoes have completely fallen apart and were very much “school shoe” style anyway, so no good for sixth form.
I’ve no idea what to get him. Men’s leather shoes are pricey and I’m worried about buying something unfashionable – I was bullied at school for exactly that and really don’t want DS to go through the same at a brand new school when he’s trying to break into established friendship groups. He’s not hugely into fashion or brands, and does understand the value of money so won’t want me to spend a small fortune on a brand name for the sake of it….but at the same time doesn’t want to stick out for the wrong reasons.
He’ll be wearing mostly chinos (blue/black/brown) with a shirt + tie, or sometimes a blue suit. When we visited the school I clocked lots of sixth formers in suits or chinos but didn’t pay attention to the shoes (regret that now!).
So what do sixth form boys actually wear that passes as “formal leather shoes” but won’t look naff? Are we talking brogues, loafers, something else? What shape or type is “in”? Needs to be comfy all day (he likes a cushioning in a shoe). Budget up to £80.
Please tell me what your 16–18 year olds wear, and ideally show me links or pics so I know what to search for!