These days, businesses are combining comfort with professionalism by upgrading through business casuals in their attires and shoes.
Getting the balance right between casual and formal shoes can be a challenge for consumers. This is where retailers can help, by pointing out the best options for men, as well as quality materials to look for when selecting business casual shoes.
This article will highlight everything you need to know to ensure you are stocking the best business casual shoes for your buyers in 2024!
Table of Contents
Overview of the market for business casual shoes
8 top trending business casual shoes for men
Conclusion
Overview of the market for business casual shoes
The casual shoe market has been witnessing significant growth in recent years as the demand for comfortable and fashionable footwear increases.
The market included business casual wear, which was valued at USD 80.1 billion in 2023. As for the forecast period between 2024 and 2030, the compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) is expected to be 7.4%, and by 2030 the market is predicted to reach USD 163.1 billion.
Some of the key trends that have been impacting include men looking for a fusion between options in athletic and leisurewear, which increases the demand for a combination of functionality and style in casual shoes.
Another noted one is more e-commerce penetration, which expanded the reach, giving an opportunity for retailers to tap into the global market. Besides this, changing fashion trends and men looking for a more casual look and comfort in their business casual shoes have been major market drivers.
8 top trending business casual shoes for men
Here is a list of top trending types of business casual shoes for men that retailers should pay close attention to:
Loafers
Let’s kick off the list with loafers. Loafers have recently become a trend, as they cater to young professionals and executives.
These can come without laces, have cushion insoles, and are easy to slip on and off. This means they ensure comfort throughout the working day.
Having a universal appeal, penny loafers and tassel loafers make suitable options in business casual collections. It should be said that the demand for these comfortable yet stylish shoes has been growing. This is because they fit perfectly to everyday demand and offer seasonal flexibility, which also means they can be worn for spring and summer. However, depending on the type of loafers, they can also be suited for winter and fall.
Sneakers
Second on the list are sneakers. Sneakers are designed to add comfort with their breathable materials, cushioned soles, and structures to add support. The modern casual sneakers can be paired with formal, casual office wear, and others.
Moreover, sneakers tend to provide more support and comfort than traditional shoes, making them a practical choice for busy professionals.
Derby shoes
Third on the list is derby shoes. Typically a style of shoe or boot that is characterized by quarters. They come with shoelace eyelets sewn on top of their vamp.
Derby shoes offer an ideal choice for those looking for stylish and comfortable business casual shoes. In addition, these are much more comfortable for people who have higher or lower insteps.
Chukka boots
Next on the list are ankle-high Chukka boots. These are either made of leather or suede and come in simple designs. These trendy shoes mostly have two or three eyelets for lacing.
Their minimalist design and flexible sole add comfort and traction. This means that they offer a balanced combination of casual and formal footwear.
Moreover, Chukka boots appeal to people looking for something casual yet formal without compromising on comfort and a relaxed vibe. Retailers can target this for people who travel frequently for business and also corporate employees.
Brogues
Next up are Brogues. These shoes are classic and known for the broguing or decorative perforation on their leather. They come in various types, including full brogues, semi-brogues, and quarter and longwing brogues.
They possess a distinguished design, making them attractive to customers looking for something that sets them apart from a plain and mainstream look. Moreover, these types of business casual shoes are appreciated by fashion-conscious individuals who prefer to have a unique element in their business footwear.
Chelsea boots
Next up is Chelsea boots. These ankle boots offer a classic and versatile option that fits business casual attire. They are most notably famous for their sleek design, which usually comes with elastic side panels that are either zippers, buckles, or laces.
Ideally, they are suitable for men looking for a pull tab, which makes them easier to wear and take off. When it comes to the boot’s features, the insoles are cushioned, and the soles are flexible. This makes them comfortable for all-day wear.
Monk strap shoes
Monk strap shoes are an elegant option suitable for business casual attire.The shoes come with a strap and buckle closure, giving an alternative to traditional laces. One can find them available either as a single monk strap or double monk strap.
The type of monk strap depends on the retailers’ choice. They can consider the option for customers looking for a clean, modern, and sophisticated look that stands out without being flashy.
Oxfords
Next on the list are Oxford shoes. Oxfords are the classic choice for their closed-lacing style. The eyelet tabs are usually stitched underneath the vamp, giving a sleek and formal appearance. The type can differ from plain toe, wingtips, cap toe, wholecut, and borague.
When it comes to sourcing, retailers can target men looking for classic, versatile, and timeless business casual shoes that go with professional and social settings. The shoes complement different attire, and they keep the experience comfortable.
Conclusion
That wraps up the list of eight trending business casual shoes for men. The future for business casual shoes remains positive as they offer a smooth touch of elegance for a men’s wardrobe.
Retailers should aim to focus on factors including comfort and style in the workplace, and keep in mind the rise in disposable income, and changing trends which contribute to the significant growth of this segment.
Visit Alibaba.com to explore these trending shoes now, and select them according to various end customers’ preferences. This will ensure you are in line with the latest trends, setting you up well for better sales in the year ahead!
