Buckle My Shoe

Let’s talk socks… 

Cuz I really have two extremes: thick boot socks with boots (naturally), or no-show socks with oxfords, sneakers and monkstraps. No where in between. 

And yet here I find myself really wanting to wear monkstraps and it’s freezing outside! My ankles can’t handle the wind off the Hudson. But if I’m going to wrap my ankle, I don’t want it to detract from my shoes. I get the whole brightly colored sock thing, but I find the whole outfit just becomes about the socks. 

So you can go two routes: match your socks with your shoes (boring), or find a tone that’s slightly darker than your pants and has the same attitude as your shoes. I.e. avoid ribbed athletic socks with your oxfords. 

Grey marled? Obvious choice for me. I have 4 pairs because they basically go with everything.

Now onto more important matters: monkstraps.

I have been hunting for a great pair of suede monkstraps for I don’t know how long! It’s quiet possibly the most versatile shoe you can own. These ones are from Crosby Square, who have been around since 1867. They know a thing or two about making incredible shoes. 

Suede has this earthly, natural quality that makes it easy to dress down with denim. That’s what really separates it from it’s shiny leather counterpart. 

I always opt for suede or pebbled leather “dress” shoes. You get so much more use and versatility out of them. Yes, you can wear suede monkstraps with a suit, but you can just as easily wear them with joggers. 

Tip: try leaving the back buckle undone. It adds a care-free feel to a look. Like you have your life together, but it’s not completely buttoned up. 

Also: white denim is totally a thing in the middle of Winter.  

What are your thoughts on monkstraps? Pebbled leather, suede or classic leather?

Crosby Square monkstraps / Club Monaco white denim, sweater and scarf / Zara bomber / Porter Yoshida bag (similar) / Bulova watch