There is nothing more frustrating than looking sharp in a suit but feeling let down by tired footwear. We’ve seen too many professionals ruin a perfectly tailored look with shoes that look cheap because, frankly, they are.
It’s not just about the initial costs. If your “high-street specials” fall apart in 12 months, you’ll be back at the mall in no time to waste another £80 on a poorly made pair. We are here to tell you - you deserve a shoe that effortlessly bridges the gap between formal and casual, without spending a month’s rent for that Northampton-level quality.
Here is how to upgrade your style with our Berwick 1707 all-rounders, good for your wallet AND your wardrobe.
How To Style All Types Of Berwick 1707 Shoes
When it comes to building a professional wardrobe, the Berwick 1707 collection is designed to be the perfect starting point.
You’ll find everything from the clean, minimalist lines of an Oxford or the textured heritage of a Brogue, with high-street level quality at a fraction of the cost, allowing you to curate a rotation of high-end staples without the usual financial barrier. Both styles are built to last a decade, not just a season - let’s see how you can style them:
Oxford Shoes
The undisputed cornerstone of a refined wardrobe
An Oxford shoe is best known for its closed lacing system, and seamless, streamlined profile that sits flush against the foot. This elegant design makes Oxford shoes beautifully minimalistic - they are the cleanest silhouette available in menswear. Because of that, an Oxford shoe will always be a top choice for formal occasions.
Berwick 1707 Straight Cap Oxford (5217) Black
Berwick 1707 Straight Cap Oxford (5217) Dark Brown
In the corporate world, a pair of black calfskin Oxfords is the gold standard. They are the natural partner for a well-tailored charcoal or navy suit, particularly when heading into high-stakes environments like board meetings or job interviews.
From weddings to black-tie galas, the Oxford remains the correct choice. For formal evening events, look for a highly polished black calf or patent leather finish to elevate the look to its peak.
Brogue Shoes
The Brogue is defined by its decorative perforations, or "broguing," which historically served to drain water from the shoes of Scottish farmers. Today, Berwick’s wingtip versions are a masterclass in her itage style, featuring a robust Goodyear welt and the iconic "W" design on the toe cap.
Berwick 1707 Oxford Brogue (5215) Dark Brown
Berwick 1707 Oxford Brogue (5215) Tan
Generally, the level of decoration dictates the formality - the more holes, the more casual the shoe. That’s why Brogues sit comfortably in the smart-casual to semi-formal range - ideal for the man who wants a shoe with a bit more soul"than a plain Oxford.
Their relaxed elegance makes them a top-tier choice for daytime events, such as country weddings, graduations, or christenings, where a strict black shoe might feel too stiff. For a Business Casual look, pair them with textured fabrics like grey flannels or classic navy chinos.
How To Style Berwick Boots
Chelsea Boots
The Chelsea boot is a design icon, easily recognised by its ankle height, laceless construction, and elastic side gussets. Berwick’s iteration is particularly praised for its slim, refined profile, which allows it to slide discreetly under the hem of tailored trousers rather than bunching up at the ankle.
This is arguably the most flexible silhouette in the entire collection. It bridges the gap between formal and casual and offers a unique rock-and-roll edge to any look.
Berwick 1707 Chelsea Boot (303) - Dark Brown Grain
Berwick 1707 Chelsea Boot (475) Black
For maximum versatility, opt for black leather or a chocolate suede. If you’re dressing for a modern office, pair black leather or dark brown suede Chelseas with slim-fit trousers and a structured blazer. They are also a great option for evening parties or events with a "cocktail" dress code.
Chukka Boots
The Chukka is the relaxed cousin of the boot world, best described as a "weekend" boot that still feels expensive and intentional.
Berwick 1707 Chukka Boot (320) - Dark Brown Grain
Berwick 1707 Chukka Boot (320) - Dark Brown Suede
This type of boot is the king of versatility, perfect for when you’re headed from the boardroom straight to the bar. Ideal for Casual Fridays or creative workspaces, they look best when paired with dark indigo denim or a crisp pair of corduroy trousers. Reach for your Chukka boots during more relaxed social commitments, such as brunch events or family gatherings, where comfort is just as important as style.
Derby Boots
If you need something more substantial, the Derby boot is the answer. Built with an open lacing system, this boot is designed to be sturdy - a functional piece of footwear that thrives in tougher conditions.
While its roots are rugged-casual, the high-quality finish of Berwick’s leather ensures it never looks sloppy.
Berwick 1707 Plain Derby Boot (657) - Black Kudu
Berwick 1707 Plain Derby Boot (657) - Autumn Spice Kudu
Derby boots are a practical choice for commuters dealing with winter weather or for those in more creative, less traditional office environments. They are also surprisingly effective for outdoor autumn or winter weddings, giving you a solid grip on uneven terrain without sacrificing a sharp silhouette.
How To Style Berwick Loafers
Penny Loafers
The Penny Loafer is the quintessential preppy staple, featuring the classic leather strap and slot across the vamp. It is simple to slip on and off, and has become the go-to for men who value both style and efficiency.
Derby boots are a practical choice for commuters dealing with winter weather or for those in more creative, less traditional office environments. They are also surprisingly effective for outdoor autumn or winter weddings, giving you a solid grip on uneven terrain without sacrificing a sharp silhouette.
How To Style Berwick Loafers
Penny Loafers
The Penny Loafer is the quintessential preppy staple, featuring the classic leather strap and slot across the vamp. It is simple to slip on and off, and has become the go-to for men who value both style and efficiency.
Berwick 1707 Penny Loafer (9628) Nomera Cuero (Dainite)
Berwick 1707 Penny Loafer (9628) Black
The aesthetic is firmly smart-casual, making it a reliable mid-week classic. Wear them with chinos or even a tailored suit, provided you skip the tie to keep the look cohesive. They are also excellent for summer garden parties or smart holiday dinners where the vibe is upscale but relaxed.
Tassel Loafers
For the man who wants to make more of a style statement, the addition of the leather tassels shows a high level of confidence. Tassel loafers are slightly more formal than penny loafers - use them with a simple trousers-and-shirt combination to lift up the entire outfit.
Berwick 1707 Tasseled Loafer (8491) Black Box Calf
Berwick 1707 Tassel Belgian Loafer (4951) Dark Brown Suede
Pro Tip: When styling Berwick Tassel Loafers for a special occasion, skip the socks and opt for a slightly shorter trouser hem (a 'no-break' look) to let the silhouette shine.
Suede Loafers
When the weather warms up, texture becomes the most important tool in your wardrobe. Suede loafers soften the overall look of an outfit, making the wearer appear more approachable and relaxed. They pair beautifully with summer fabrics like linen or lightweight cotton suits, offering a breathable alternative to heavy calfskin.
Berwick 1707 Penny Loafer (9628) Suede
Berwick 1707 Classic Belgian Loafer (4950) Suede
Suede loafers are also the perfect choice for destination weddings at a beach or villa, where full leather would look out of place and feel too restrictive.
How To Choose The Right Colour For The Occasion
The colour of your shoes can change your entire outfit. Read below to understand the nuances of the Berwick palette & make sure you never look out of place.
Black
Black is the ultimate expression of formality and should be the foundation of any conservative wardrobe. It is the non-negotiable choice for black-tie events, formal ceremonies, and the most traditional corporate environments.
Dark Brown & Espresso
These deep, earthy shades work harmoniously with navy, mid-grey, and tan tailoring, making them the most adaptable options in the collection.
They fit seamlessly into roughly 90% of all social and professional scenarios, and can lower your cost per wear through sheer versatility. For daily office life, they offer more warmth than a black pair of Oxfords.
Burgundy & Oxblood
Often overlooked, burgundy is arguably the most underrated colour in menswear. It functions as a neutral with a personality, pairing effortlessly with almost any trouser shade, from forest green and earthy browns to classic navy and charcoal.
Adding a pair of oxblood Berwicks to a standard work outfit provides a rich, sophisticated pop of colour without being too loud.
Tan & Chestnut
Tan and chestnut shades bring a high-energy, vibrant feel to an outfit, and are best when paired with seasonal palettes like khaki, cream, or light blue. They are the ideal choice for casual daytime events and outdoor summer celebrations.
Suede vs. Smooth Leather
While smooth calfskin is the traditional choice for high-stakes business, suede offers a layer of casual luxury. A pair of dark brown suede Berwicks serves as a fantastic alternative to smooth leather, softening the formality of a suit and making your office look feel more approachable and contemporary.
|
There is a common misconception that proper leather shoes take weeks to fully break in. However, Berwick 1707 shoes feature a cork-filled midsole that shifts and compresses as you wear it, slowly moulding to the unique shape of your foot. After just a few outings, you’ll be walking on a custom-fit footbed created by your own anatomy. |
Choose Berwick 1707 Shoes For Your Wardrobe
In an era of disposable fashion, it’s time to choose things that last.
Ultimately, a pair of Berwicks is more than just a stylish choice for a wedding or a work meeting - it is a staple of a circular wardrobe that will stay with you for a long time. By investing in one high-quality pair rather than five mediocre ones, you are reducing your environmental footprint while ensuring you are the best-dressed man in the room.
Explore the full Berwick 1707 Goodyear Welted Collection at A Fine Pair of Shoes and find the perfect foundation for your professional and social wardrobe today.