Picks of the Week: New Season Footwear

Warmer weather allows for a certain level of carelessness when it comes to footwear, but that's not to say that one's choice should be ill-considered. From smart Oxfords to casual penny loafers, here are some of the best shoe options from the new season. Tom Chamberlin, Editor Like a navy blazer or pair of jeans, a classic black Oxford is an essential starting point for a wardrobe. When polished (focus the high shine on the toe cap), they are an excellent foundation. In the passage of time, they are something, if well looked after, that can be passed down and should play out like the closest advisors to government heads – the ones that don’t stand out but are completely vital. Bear in mind, however, that as they sit higher up your foot, the trouser leg should be a bit wider so you don’t look like you have clown feet. Gaziano and Girling's magisterial lines and angles compliment your feet better than most other brands on the market. Charlie Thomas, Deputy Editor A pair of chunky leather boots doesn’t have to be reserved solely for winter, especially when they look as good as Grenson’s Triple Welts. Featuring the brand’s patented stacked Goodyear welt construction, these are crafted from a fine alpine grain leather and employ subtly oversized brogueing and eyelets for a contemporary take on classic brogue boots. Pair them with equally robust corduroy trousers and a hug-inducing shawl collar cardigan and you’ll be good to go. Jessica Beresford, Managing Editor, Online Benedict Browne, Online Editorial Associate The penny loafer is synonymous with the iconic Ivy-league style and, as a result, it will always be a discerning and reliable choice – especially during spring. Edward Green’s Piccadilly model is arguably the crème de la crème of all penny loafers and is moulded upon a sleek, rounded last that screams ‘England’. Opt for an offhand look — penny loafers always look best when worn casually — and sport a pair of black, Made in England jeans from Blackhorse Lane and a utilitarian safari shirt from Marol and you’re good to go. (Go one step further and add a pop of colour to the ensemble with a pair of socks from Pantherella.) Megan Plenderleith, Copywriter For those of us whose wardrobes are dictated by unpredictable (and constantly chilly) seasons, a pair of Edward Green Utah Leather Chukka boots act as a foolproof option, thanks to their robust construction yet simple silhouette. Pair with Rubinacci's dark grey manny pleated cotton trousers and a Naked Clothing long sleeve pique cotton polo shirt for the ideal trans-seasonal ensemble. Natasha Drax, Online Editorial Assistant The clocks have gone forward, the days are longer and temperatures have thawed, which also means finally kicking aside those clunky winter boots. A pair of versatile trainers are the perfect replacement, such as these blue sneakers by C.QP. Handcrafted from Italian suede, this is the brand’s most recent style, featuring added layers of cushioning, arch support and a removable inner sole resulting in a supple yet stable shoe. Pair with some smart single-pleated trousers and a simple cashmere sweater to keep the look informed and sophisticated.