Five of the Best: Men's Work Shoes

It’s time to sharpen your pencils and polish your shoes; it’s not just the kids going back to school, a return to the office is also on the cards.

While the way you work may have changed, the basics of dressing well for the workplace remains the same: look sharp and stay comfortable. Whether you’re venturing back to the workplace or working from home and looking to update your casual wardrobe, here at Loake, we are on hand to keep your feet sartorially equipped with a selection of handcrafted footwear. Here’s the uniform to help step back to work in style, 5 men's work shoes to look sharp and comfortable.

1. ‘356’ Loafer in Black Polished

Unfalteringly stylish, a contemporary polished Loafer is hard to beat if you’re looking to upgrade your footwear and classic slip-ons will look the business with your two-piece suit or your chinos and a nice jumper. Our ‘356’ penny loafer part of our ‘300 series’ range and features Black Polished Leather and Dark Brown Suede options, in sizes 6-13 (including half sizes).⁠

All shoes in the Loake 300 Series benefit from shock absorbent memory foam, flexible insole for everyday comfort, and are Goodyear Welted rubber soles for greater durability and longevity. This model is available in an F width using our ‘Saddle’ last.

Shop our 356 Loafer

2. ‘Aldwych’ Oxford in Mahogany Calf

A sharp Toe-cap Oxford shoe is still considered standard issue in formal corporate office settings, and if you’re looking to go back to work with a bang and impress the boardroom (in the footwear department at least), then this is the style upgrade for you. The Loake ‘Aldwych’ is a premium burnished calf Oxford shoe, made in England. Available in Mahogany, Dark Brown and Black calf leathers, Aldwych is also available with a rubber or leather sole, and in either a regular F-fit or a G-fit if you have a slightly wider foot.

Shop our Aldwych

3. ‘Chester’ Brogue in Tan Calf

If you work in a creative office where you don’t have to wear a suit, then you can still give yourself the professional edge by opting for a classic Goodyear Welted Brogue. The Loake ‘Chester’ Derby brogue is an extremely versatile wear, and a firm fan favourite for both work and play.

Built on our ‘024’ last – one of two ‘country’ last shapes Loake currently use, this shape is a little roomier by design with a rounded toe shape, to allow for thicker socks to be worn. ⁠Chester is available in Tan or Mahogany Calf with a choice of a Rubber or Leather sole.

Shop our Chester Brogue

4. ‘Sahara’ Desert Boot in Dark Brown Suede

While not the most obvious choice the for workplace, a suave suede Desert boot offers a more relaxed alternative to classic Goodwear welted footwear. Pair the ‘Sahara’ with smart, Selvidge denim, a crisp turn-up, and a good pair of socks and they become a solid menswear staple for any smart / casual office environment.

The Loake ‘Sahara’ is built on the ‘Desert’ last, featuring a standard-length toe with a rounded shape and is available in Dark Brown, Tan and Navy suede leathers.

Shop our Sahara Desert Boot

5. ‘Bannister’ Trainer in Cedar Calf

Finally, if you are working from home, or want to stay comfortable while commuting to and from the office, or simply want a more casual style to pair with your work trousers, then look no further than the Loake ‘Bannister’ Trainer.

Incorporating classic Loake qualities and construction with subtle sportswear details, for a contemporary look, Bannister is a sleek leather trainer crafted in calf leather. Easy going and effortless; the perfect companion to your new work wardrobe. Bannister is also available in Suede Leather options.

Shop our Bannister Trainer


Explore innovation and craftsmanship in the full Loake 'Work Re-Imagined' collection, available for browsing online or in-store. Elevate your style with these contemporary and versatile designs.


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