This is the second in a series – to read from the beginning and understand why this is so important for short guys, start with Style Makes Attractiveness for the Short Man.
Our second article in the Style and Attractiveness Series is (believe it or not) about the power of footwear. Shoes are a potent force when it comes to women. They’re also an excellent way to make a great impression and dramatically increase your appeal.
You’ve probably heard that women notice shoes. Why? Shoes communicate insider information about the person wearing them. Clothing says a lot, but shoes seal the deal.
The Psychology Of Women And Shoes
Think of shoes as you do your car. Would you drive an old, cheap, dirty, dented, rusted, hulk of a car if you could help it? Consider the importance guys place on their cars and you’ll get an idea of the value women place on shoes.
Women learn early about the impact of shoes. They equate the quality of a person’s footwear with the quality and status of the wearer. In early times, only the rich and powerful could afford real shoes. Your shoes tell her if you’re an ‘alpha male’ – a leader – and whether you’d be a good provider. It works both ways. Guys find high heels sexy and equate them with eroticism.
The condition of your shoes tells a woman how you take care of yourself and your life. By extension, they suggest how you would take care of her. Scuffed, worn, misshapen, smelly, or dirty shoes transmit a slovenly and unattractive message.
Research shows that similarity is the best predictor of attraction. To women, shoes are the finishing touch to any outfit. The right shoes tell a women you’re a stylish guy who’s on the same wavelength as she is. When you show a woman that you agree with the concept of matching shoes to the rest of your clothing, you’re establishing similarity without saying a word… It gives you something in common from the get-go.
I’m not saying you have to care about shoes. I don’t, really. But you do need to know about them, and why they’re important – because it matters to the women you want.
Basic Footwear (Required)
You’ll need a variety of shoes in a range of styles. Many men make the mistake of wearing one pair of sneakers for everything. This does not impress women.
Your shoe wardrobe should include:
1. Athletic shoes. Invest in a great pair of sports shoes and wear them only for activities like working out or jogging.
2. Casual sneakers. Sneakers today come in many fashions. Converse offers a range of styles that can compliment almost any outfit. A neutral color like olive green will go with most types of pants. Avoid loud, multicolored sneakers.
3. Warm-weather footwear. Moccasins and espadrilles without socks are a nice casual look with pants or shorts. Flip-flops and sandals are another option, but only with well-groomed feet.
4. Dressier casual shoes. Loafers or relaxed lace-ups with heavy stitching and weaves are more casual and work well with jeans and khakis. Tasseled loafers and buckled monk straps are dressier but still relaxed.
5. Dress shoes. Dress shoes have a shiny finish with soles and heels that are more streamlined and less bulky than other shoes. Simple dress oxfords work well with suits, and laces are mandatory for formal occasions. Important: avoid “hybrid” dress shoes that combine sneaker and dress shoe into one style – they’re the worst of both worlds, and they scream out ‘sloppy’.
6. Work and/or hiking boots. Boots should be brown or black and of superior quality. They should fit well, allow for comfortable movement, and provide good traction. If you don’t wear boots for work, they’re still essential in cold, snowy weather.
While shopping for footwear, try on shoes with the socks you’ll pair them with. Shop for shoes later in the day after your feet are somewhat swollen. The shoes may feel loose in the morning, but your feet will expand to fit them during the day.
Putting It All Together
These aren’t rules, but guidelines if you don’t know where to start … and want to make sure women don’t discount you for your shoe choice.
Shoes should match or be darker than pants. Pair black and gray shoes with navy, gray, and black clothing. Burgundy shoes look good with khaki, navy, gray, and light brown.
Match brown shoes to earth tones like green, brown, tan, and beige. If you’re wearing lighter earth tones, tan shoes compliment blue, white, pale tan, and beige. With a suit, match socks to pants, not shoes. It’s a nice touch to match your shoes to your belt, but it’s not required.
Almost any pair of shoes is suitable with jeans. The only exception is shiny dress shoes. When in doubt, gear your shoes to the style of your shirt. Dress pants require shoes that would be appropriate with a suit. Keep all shoes polished, clean, and well maintained.
Socks should not draw attention but, if the occasion is not dressy, socks can be used to add spice to a neutral outfit. Avoid showing the tops of your socks. Socks should cover your legs even while sitting and crossing the legs. Visible ankle socks or tube socks look sloppy, and as for sandals and socks, don’t go there.
Shoes tell the world who you are. Knowing the score about footwear (and honoring it) helps you look great to women – and feel confident. Start paying attention – remember, you need to care because she cares … When you know the rules of play, you’re in a position to win the game.
