![A Definitive Guide to Wholecuts](http://ardenteal.com/cdn/shop/articles/Guide_to_wholecuts_1500x643.jpg?v=1683857461)
A Definitive Guide to Wholecuts
What is a Wholecut Shoe?
The 3 Characteristic Features
![Lacing system comparison between Oxford (Closed) and Derbys (Open)](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2666/5894/files/Lacing_System_Comparison_1000x500.jpg?v=1683857201)
Side-by-side comparison of Wholecut Oxfords (left) and Derby Shoes (right)
Variations of the Wholecut
When & How Should You Wear Wholecut Shoes?
Setting
![Male Formal and Informal Outfit](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2666/5894/files/Male_Formal_and_Informal_Outfit_1000x500.jpg?v=1683858221)
In more casual settings, the elegant leather Wholecut shoes will look out of place. Still, this doesn’t mean that Wholecuts cannot be worn casually! This is where Suede Wholecuts come in – These types of Wholecuts are more suited to casual outfits and can be paired with trousers and denim pants.
![Light Brown Suede Wholecuts](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2666/5894/files/suede_wholecuts_1000x500.jpg?v=1683858575)
Colour
The most commonly worn Wholecut is in Black. Its attraction lies in its simplicity, providing a hassle-free shoe solution that matches all types of suits donned for work, formal black tie events, or special occasions (e.g. Weddings).
![Black Wholecuts](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2666/5894/files/black_wholecuts_1000x500.jpg?v=1683859225)
Recently, brown Wholecuts have emerged as an attractive alternative to the traditional black option. Regardless of whether you opt for a darker or lighter shade, brown Wholecuts provide a fashionable alternative when dressing in suits for formal and semi-formal events. They have also been proven to pair well with jeans for a more casual look.
Other than the two most common colours, opting for unique colors like navy blue can also dramatically refresh your wardrobe.
![Navy Wholecut Shoes](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2666/5894/files/navy_wholecuts_2_1000x500.jpg?v=1683860132)
Navy Wholecuts – Image credit @ Pinterest
Who can wear Wholecut Shoes?
This means that Wholecuts (and Oxfords in general) are not recommended for those with slightly wider feet or higher instep. Also, men with a high foot arch tend to find Wholecuts tight, especially across the bridge of the foot.
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