What Shoes to Wear to Prom: Loafers vs Oxfords (Plus the Best Pairings)

Your shoes can elevate your entire look to legendary status or completely ruin the vibe before you even hit the red carpet. Prom is a marathon, not a sprint; you've got hours of photos, formal walks, and high-energy dancing ahead of you. This guide breaks down the showdown between Loafers and Oxfords so you can step out with absolute confidence and zero regrets.

Ready to find your foundation? Dive into our Prom Shoes for Men collection.

Quick Answer: Loafers vs. Oxfords

If you're looking to make a fast decision, here is the breakdown:

. Choose Oxfords if you're wearing a Prom Tuxedo, going for a traditional "Black-Tie" look, or want the sharpest, most formal silhouette possible.

. Choose Loafers if your Prom Suit is a bold color, your personal style is more fashion-forward, or you want that effortless, modern edge.

. Choose Monk Straps for the perfect middle ground, distinctive, dressy, and guaranteed to earn compliments.

Option #1: Oxfords (The Classic Prom Winner)

Oxfords are the gold standard for formal events. Their closed-lacing system creates a sleek, streamlined profile that is both timeless and authoritative.

. Patent Black Oxfords: These are high-shine and specifically designed for tuxedo energy.

. Matte Black Leather Oxfords: Versatile and sharp, these are perfect for any formal suit and can be worn again for future graduations or weddings.

Best for: Black Tuxedos, Navy Suits, and strictly formal dress codes.

Option #2: Loafers (Modern, Stylish, Prom-Ready)

Loafers are the ultimate choice for the guy who wants to lead the trend rather than follow it. They offer a clean, laceless look that radiates confidence and modern flair.

. Black Patent Loafers: A high-fashion alternative for a modern tuxedo.

. Navy Suede Loafers: Perfect for adding texture to a bold suit look.

. Black Velvet Loafers: The "Main Character" move for a velvet or statement jacket.

 

Best for: Bold suits (Royal Blue, Burgundy, Green) and minimalist, "editorial" looks.

Option #3: Monk Straps (The Standout Choice)

If you want something unique that isn't a standard lace-up or a slip-on, Monk Strap Shoes are your secret weapon. With their signature buckle closure, they feel smarter than a loafer but more creative than an Oxford.

. Dark Brown Double Monk Straps: These offer a rich, warm tone that pairs beautifully with navy and grey suits.

. Black Single Monk Straps: Clean, minimal, and incredibly sharp for a modern black suit look.Best Prom Shoe Pairings by Outfit

A) With a Tuxedo

. The Go-To: Black Patent Leather Oxfords for that mirror-shine finish.

. The Modern Edge: Black Velvet Loafers for a sleek, minimal aesthetic.

. Link: Shop Prom Tuxedos for Men

B) With a Black Suit

. The Standard: Black Leather Oxfords.

. The Alternative: Black Leather Double Monk Straps to break up the traditional look.C) With a Navy Suit

. The Sharpest: Black Leather Oxfords.

. The Warmest: Dark Brown Leather Monk Straps for a sophisticated contrast.

D) With a Royal Blue, Burgundy, or Green Suit

. The Balance: Black Leather Loafers. When your suit is the star, keep your shoes balanced and polished so they don't fight for attention.

. Check our Match the Dress Guide to coordinate your colors.

E) With a Cream or Beige Suit

. The Choice: Tan Suede Loafers or Brown Leather Oxfords. Keep the tones light and intentional for that fresh, editorial vibe.Comfort + Fit: The Prom Night Reality

A legendary look is nothing if you're limping by 10 PM.

1. Break Them In: Wear your new shoes around the house for 20-minute sessions at least three times before the big night.

2. The Sock Rule: If you’re rocking loafers with a cropped trouser, go for no-show socks. For Oxfords, always wear a clean, over-the-calf dress sock.

3. Timing: Don't wait until the last minute. Follow our Prom Shopping Timeline to ensure your footwear is ready to go.

5 Prom Shoe Mistakes to Avoid

. Casual Sneakers: Avoid them unless you are going for a very specific, high-fashion streetwear-suit vibe.

. Loud Colors: Don't let your shoes "scream" if your suit is already bold.

. Wrong Shine: Never wear matte, scuffed shoes with a high-shine tuxedo.

. Poor Fit: Ensure there is no heel slippage; you’ll be dancing, and blisters are the enemy.

. Skipping the Test: Try the whole outfit on with the shoes 48 hours before prom.

Step Into Your Big Night

Your shoes are the final punctuation mark on your prom story. Whether you choose the sharp precision of an Oxford or the effortless style of a Loafer, make sure they carry the HolloMen seal of quality.

Shop Prom Shoes for Men | Shop Prom Suits for Men | Shop Prom Tuxedos for Men | Match the Dress Guide

Own the dance floor and the photos with a pair of shoes that reflects your distinct confidence.