No matter what the occasion, some of the most eye-catching details in footwear are right at the tips of your toes.

Footwear shouldn’t be a fashion afterthought. These latest styles demand attention for their innovative design, classic looks and functionality. Try them on for size.

1. Make strides

The subtle detail lies in the gently sloping toe of the N The Bank cap-toe oxford, $235, by Kenneth Cole New York, making it a great everyday dress-up shoe. At Kenneth Cole stores, call 800-KENCOLE, or visit kennethcole.com.



2. Top dog

A true classic, this welted, wing-tip shoe, $450, by Cole Haan (also available in black), says that you really mean business. At Cole Haan stores, call 800-201-8001, or visit colehaan.com.


3. Outside the shoe box

Made from fabric and accented with patent leather, the Derby shoe, $906, by Louis Vuitton, is an innovative option for formal events. At Louis Vuitton stores, call 866-VUITTON, or visit louisvuitton.com.


4. Kick up your heels

This cap-toe, horse-bit moccasin, $575, by Gucci, classically combines the luxury of velvet and the shine of patent leather to create an elegant black-tie option. At Gucci stores.


5. Toe the line

Bold toe treatments are the focal point in the Glendon Collection by Johnston & Murphy. Each pair sells for $295 and is available in a monk-strap or a lace-up version. At Johnston & Murphy stores, call 888-792-3272, or visit johnstonmurphy.com.








6. Soft shoe

By mixing soft glove leather with Italian calf leather in its San Martin oxfords, $595, Zelli by T. Manzel has come up with a serious business shoe that’s also lightweight and comfortable. At Nordstrom stores, call 817-737-9997, or visit zellishoes.com.


7. Fancy footwork

These luxurious, handmade lace-ups with gentle perforations on the toe, $1,495, are for the confident guy who loves the best of everything. At John Lobb stores, call 212-888-9797, or visit johnlobb.com.

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Toe Pointers

BAG ’EM: Most dress shoes are sold with a soft, protective bag—don’t toss it away. These bags are perfect for stowing your footwear for travel, and they can protect shoes in your closets at home, especially if you don’t have room to keep every pair in its box.

CLEARLY SPEAKING: Admit it—it really is easier to have your shoes shined than to do it yourself. While many hotels offer overnight service, a better option is to have your shoes spiffed up while on your feet to avoid any stressful delays in having them returned to you. Between shines, use clear polish to clean up scuffs and add some gloss.

NUMBERS GAME: Most men need three types of dress shoes: a brown, a black and a formal version. If in doubt, opt for lace-ups. They are suitable for most any occasion and will fit better because of the flexibility of laces.

STUFF IT: Invest in shoe trees to keep your shoes in shape. They help preserve the leather in tip-top condition, especially for shoes that have a tendency to get crushed during travel.