While the rest of the business world can wear wing tips, monk straps, loafers, cowboy boots, or anything else they like, young lawyers are stuck with two options: oxfords or bluchers (the laces are enclosed in an oxford and outside a blucher). Your choice of colors: black, brown, or possibly cordovan. There are likely articles giving advice contrary to this, but do not listen to them. For the modern lawyer, shoes are not the place to distinguish yourself. As boring as these two shoe options are, take comfort in knowing they are classic and will never go out of style. They can also be worn with anything except shorts.
Allen Edmonds may be the best deal in all of men’s clothing. The first rule of the Modern Lawyer is to find quality by focusing on good materials and true craftsmanship. Allen Edmonds , to their financial detriment, still adheres to this notion. They are one of the last shoe maker in the United States that make every shoe by hand. The combination of skill and excellent materials mean a classic dress shoe that is comfortable. If you can not afford to have a custom shoe made for you, consider Allen Edmonds . I recommend either the Park Avenue or the Manhattan. Both models are appropriate for the office and the courtroom. As a lawyer you should be careful when selecting an Allen Edmonds design. Some of their models are much too flashy for an attorney who needs a classic design. When someone sees your shoes they should recognize that it is well made without wondering what you were thinking when picking it out.
Their dress shoes are approximately $315, though they can sometimes be found in outlets or on sale for less. For the young lawyer this may be significantly more money than he has ever spent on a single pair of shoes. Instead of focusing just on the price consider the following: A well crafted shoe (of which Allen Edmonds is at the entry level price point) should last for around eight years if properly cared for and rotated. The department store’s house brand or Johnston & Murphy for $80-$120 is going to last for about twelve months before falling apart. Do the math. If you are really strapped for cash, just go to Ebay and buy a used pair of Allen Edmonds. Take them to an Allen Edmonds store and have them “recrafted” for about $100. They will be in “near new” condition when you get them back.
