What Do Your Shoes Say About You?

Shoes are the most sought-after accessory in the world. They come in thousands of styles, fits, and colors. With so many styles out there, it’s easy to create an image for yourself based on your footwear. With over 45 years in the business, it’s no surprise to us that people judge each other based on their shoes, but what do your shoes say about you?

We scanned the likes of Huffington Post, Elite Daily, GQ, and Mens Health to see what their experts had to say – and offer a little expertise of our own. Here at The Shoe Mart, we don't just sell shoes--we love them, too. We firmly believe in footwear that goes beyond functionality and quality to help you express yourself. Each section includes one of our favorites to battle the stereotypes.

Casual Shoes

Do your casual shoes come off as pretentious? While your boat shoes and driving mocs should compliment your style and show that you care about your appearance, high-maintenance suede and leather can suggest to others that you require a lot of upkeep, as well.

Keep it casual by taking a fun spin on the classic style. Modern loafers and boat shoes in pleasing colors will keep potential dates at ease. Our pick? Keep it fresh with classic navy and a pop of color in Chathams from Austen Heller.

Austen Heller Men's Chathams, Navy and Green

Boots

A Popular 2012 Study found people that wear ankle boots tend to be more aggressive (suddenly our intern's footwear choices are making a lot more sense to us...). Boots began as a more protective footwear, and have a long-standing, working-class reputation. While boots have certainly made it into high-fashion, they are often seen as edgier footwear, and indicate an independent personality. People who wear boots are also seen as intelligent and interesting. However, Biker- or Military-style boots may indicate a cynical, sensitive, or even egocentric personality.

Intrigue people without scaring them away with a chukka boot. A masculine style that isn't showy or indicative of emotional instability, a chukka or desert boot suggests that you are hard-working, detail-oriented, and sensible--without being dull.

Athletic Shoes

Whether you're hitting the gym or keeping it casual, what do your sneakers say about you? If you're spotting vibrant, colorful kicks, you may be more independent--but not necessarily more extroverted. Retro shoes or canvas high-tops indicate a laid back, trendy personality--but there is a line between "retro" and "grandpa". Shoes with white or mesh uppers usually signify an older generation. As mentioned above, ankle-height shoes sometimes indicate an aggressive personality, but high-tops are also associated with agreeable and socially aware people that don't take themselves too seriously.

We think the Navy, Conrad Blue, and White Reebok CrossFit Power Lite TR is a great option here. Highly functional, stylish, and not visually boring, it will show your playful side without being too flashy. Best of all, it can be taken from the street to the gym and back again.

Reebok Men's CrossFit Power Lite TR, Navy, Conrad Blue, and White.

Sandals

We don't think we have to tell you this one, but we've noticed that there are still some people out there that haven't gotten the memo. Wearing both socks and sandals in the summer* suggests indecisiveness and a lack of common sense. If you're going to wear sandals, please commit. Take the socks off, groom your feet, and sport them proudly.

We're suggesting a pair of Olukai leather thong sandals. Because thong sandals make it particularly difficult to wear socks in the summer.

Olukai Men's Ohana Leather, Dark Java

* If you wear socks with your Chacos casually in the winter, we actually like your style.

Dress Shoes

Your shoes can say a lot about you, and your dress shoes are no exception. The good news? The previously mentioned study found that some of the stereo-types of men who sport high-fashion dress shoes weren't necessarily true. However, while your new, well-kept dress shoes don't indicate that you are fussy or a Republican, your concern over your appearance may indicate attachment anxiety.

Worn-in, quality shoes that have been properly maintained indicate that you--like your shoes--are reliable. Taking care of your shoes is a great way to show an interviewer or potential client that you are detail-oriented.

We're going with a classic in the JC Cole Dundee, with a classic perforated design. Keep it together with a perfectly matching JC Cole Belt.

JC Cole Men's Dundee, English Tan

Every time you put on a shoe, you are communicating to the world something about yourself. So, what do your shoes say?