How to style blue shoes

I'm very drawn towards navy shoes and there's plenty about at the moment, but I've found them more difficult than anticipated to style with other things. As I've recently had a couple of clients who have echoed these thoughts, I wanted to share with you some ways which I've found them to work well.

I like the look of these flannel trainers from Jigsaw which have a clean, smart feel to them. They go well with the contrast of the pale silver grey trousers - also Jigsaw, and the grey striped Paul Smith socks tone with the trousers to subtly enhance the look.

Tip: Tone your socks with your trousers not your shoes

Although it seems like it would be a no-brainer to wear navy brogues with jeans - it can go a bit wrong and look too matchy, matchy, as if your mum dressed you......not quite the look you were after?! So best to go for some faded blue jeans (these are Acne) rather than dark indigo, and break the blues with a little turn up and a pair of contrasting socks like these red marl ones from Albam.

Tip: Have a small turn up on your jeans if you're short (or have short legs), a larger one if you're tall (or have long legs)

For Spring, navy makes a nice addition to your shoe wardrobe and is a change from tan for more casual outfits. I like the classic look of these Paul Smith chukka boots with sand coloured chinos - (also Paul Smith) which you could wear with a chambray shirt and fitted unlined navy blazer (like this one). This will satisfy any occasion that calls for smart casual, and you can add your own stamp of individuality with some coloured or striped socks.

Tip: Tone in your pocket square with your socks to finish off your outfit

Folk's birdseye cotton and linen trousers in storm blue would look great with these navy Monk Strap shoes for a contemporary classic look to wear to work or to go out in. Put them with a crisp white shirt, burgundy knit tie and navy fine knit cardigan or with the matching jacket so you have a suit. Don't forget to add some snazzy socks like these houndstooth ones from the London Sock Company.

Tip: Use texture and subtle patterns to add interest and variety to your wardrobe

I basically stole this look from a shoot I recently did with Grey Fox blogger David Evans where he was trying out some trousers from Scotland Shop that are similar to these Paul Smith ones. In the look we put together from his wardrobe we used a white dress shirt, navy velvet blazer, dark green socks and black patent dress shoes. To give it even more of an edge, I like these navy patent loafers from Brioni at Mr Porter.

Tip: Wear this look as an alternative to Black Tie or for any parties that have "Cocktail Attire" on the invitation

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