(so) I'm getting married! (shoe advice please?

[endcycle]

It's been a long time since I've posted here (I.... grew a beard ), but now that the big day approaches and I need to make some wardrobe decisions that B+B could be super helpful.


SO!
My aesthetic- I grew up in the punk scene in the 80s and 90s, and that's left a bit of unconventional in my style even when I dress more formally. For the wedding, our colors are black, white, and red (think: the contrast that the band The White Stripes uses all over) and it'll be an outdoor fall wedding.

My suit is black, 2-button, narrow-lapel suit with good tailoring. The following links are likely similar to the tie, tie bar, and cufflinks (if not the actual ones - still have to decide for sure) -

This tie:
http://www.thetiebar.com/order_page...asp&pg=0&categoryIds=31,66,24&optionValueIds=

(pairing with a matching red or white (w/ red accent) pocket square)

This tie bar:
http://www.thetiebar.com/tie-bar-pr...eBars.asp&pg=0&categoryIds=98&optionValueIds=

These cufflinks:
http://www.thetiebar.com/tie-bar-pr...flinks.asp&pg=0&categoryIds=4&optionValueIds=

SO! Given all that, the shoes are where I'm stuck. My fiance loves spectator style shoes, and has kinda hinted offhand that I use them for the wedding - but I have this weird feeling that I'd wind up looking ridiculous.

http://t.co/nEUzT5dCkj <-- these are the shoes that I'm leaning towards if I go that way. The bi-color thing is a bit aggressive maybe, and that's why I'm questioning it strongly.

Can I get some input here? I feel like either it'll work REALLY well or look REALLY stupid, and I don't think there's any in-between.

 

[syzygy]

You should get the fresh out today Fluevog 7th Heaven Michaels in black/red/white. Super rad and stylish.

 

[StillShaving]

The shoes do seem a little causal for a wedding, but just right for dancing, and what better day to dance than on your wedding! Sorry I am of no real help, but it sounds like you can pull it off.

 

[dakotaev]

This might go with the red accent theme. It may also make a good daily dress shoe after the wedding where as, despite my love for them, I myself would have a hard time wearing spectators on a regular basis.

http://www.allenedmonds.com/aeonline/producti_SF2365_1_40000000001_-1

 

[adriang]

Just a thought.. to help point back to the punk scene.. how about a pair of creepers? Get some black leather ones, they're more subtle that pink or tiger skin effect..?

Other thought, again pointing back to the punk days, a pair of Doc Marten shoes, with the yellow laces. I have a pair on now for work. I bought the 'for life' ones. Only thing I'd say with those, is that they look better after some wear.

 

[01HDFXD]

I love spectators, have several pairs in different styles and color combos, and wear them whenever possible, including business meetings on Capitol Hill. I'd say go for it! One caveat: If you are wearing spectators that have white panels on them (the photo you linked to looked gray), you can properly wear them only:
In the North, from Memorial Day to Labor Day and
In the South, from Easter to Columbus Day.

Personally, I don't mind bending those rules, but I have a wife whose mother must have been traumatized by a calendar while my wife was in her womb. Anyway, wear the spectators, don't think about it, and have a ball! BTW, congratulations and best of luck to you and your bride.

 

[coolcanuc]

The shoes that are shown in the link look to be quite nice. My only concern with this combination of colour is regarding upkeep, polishing could be troublesome from what I can see. Otherwise they look like well made shoes that should last for years. Personally I am more of a traditionalist and would go with black lace-ups with a good shine and play with the white and red in the shirt, tie and cufflinks.

Congratulations on the coming wedding.

 

[jkingrph]

The AE shoe in wine showed is nice looking, but probably not good for dancing due to the rubber non slip sole and heel. A wingtip such as their Mcalister or McNeil would be good, also the plain toe Leeds. Any of these would be a classic style for future use also.

 

[Doc4]

I feel like either it'll work REALLY well or look REALLY stupid, and I don't think there's any in-between.

That's pretty much the deal with spectators. They are certainly not for the faint of heart. That said, if you think they "fit" with the theme and overall dress sense of the wedding, then go for it.

But you may be buying shoes that you wear only once ... ever.

A pair of "regular" black dress shoes may have more utility down the road ... but of course pleasing your bride counts for a lot more and if she wants the spectators, then go for it.

 

[jpakstis]

A pair of "regular" black dress shoes may have more utility down the road ... but of course pleasing your bride counts for a lot more and if she wants the spectators, then go for it.

Heh, this is the probably the most important factor in your decision. Congratulations and those spectators look great! Hopefully they don't draw any attention away from your bride-to-be.

 

[Shaving_CHENG]

I would say a pair of black dress shoes would be best, but if you must, what about a pair of of Chucks or even Docs? Both can make a statement when paired with the right suit. Rocking one of those would keep you in the Minor Treat mode.

As for the tie and the tie bar: Why wear a tie bar if it is going to to be invisible? The tie is sharp, but maybe something a little more subtle is appropriate on your wedding day; you're best compliment on how you dressed should be that no one remembers what you wore.

 

[kehern]

here is something similar, but a bit less aggressive in the styling (less extreme) also boots are punk, right?

http://www.allenedmonds.com/aeonline/producti_SF8722_1_40000000001_-1

(the black ones)

they will be a bit more versatile after the wedding too!

 

[djh]

Whichever way you decide to go with your shoe choice, please try to wear them a few times before the big day. There is nothing worse than spending a long day (and evening) stuck in shoes which are uncomfortable....

 

[Masterkova]

Given the counter-culture vibe of the wedding as you've described it, I think the shoes are perfect. Wear them and have fun!!!

 

[endcycle]

Hey all!

Sorry for the late response. We went camping this weekend for the Gentlemen of the Road Troy stop, and I basically disconnected for 72 hours (and got very, very dirty in the process. 3 showers later I still feel kinda gross. )

ANYWAY!
I love the suggestions in the thread. I am going to take some time to think about it, but I am leaning towards just saying "it's my wedding, i wanna push it a bit, and she will probably say yes no matter what so... let's do this thing."

Thank you so much for your time and energy, guys.

 

[Doc4]

ANYWAY!
I love the suggestions in the thread. I am going to take some time to think about it, but I am leaning towards just saying "it's my wedding, i wanna push it a bit, and she will probably say yes no matter what so... let's do this thing."

Thank you so much for your time and energy, guys.

As long as she's cool with it, that's the way to go.

 

[August West]

A spit shined pair of jump boots should do it.

 

[endcycle]

Hey, just wanted to throw an update - she said yes, and I wore the Mezlans I linked. They were pretty damned awesome. Thanks all for your suggestions and comments.

 

[rushchairman]

congratulations on the nuptials

 

[knlgskr]

Congratulations! I wouldn't wear Wing Tips with a suit. A Bal Oxford along the lines of Allen Edmonds Park Avenue in Burgundy would work well.